New I/O Breakout Boards from Opto 22 Increase Current Switching Up to 12x

New SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 and SNAP-UDC-HDB breakout boards from industrial automation manufacturer Opto 22 boost the capabilities of 32-point SNAP digital I/O modules, simplify field wiring, and save panel space. With the SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 breakout board, OEMs, machine builders, and automation professionals can connect 32-point SNAP digital I/O modules to higher loads and gain the reliability of fused outputs and isolated inputs, while the space-saving SNAP-UDC-HDB breakout board provides convenient spring-clamp connectors for up to 32 field devices, all in a small footprint. Both new breakout boards are part of Opto 22’s SNAP PAC System, which includes programmable automation controllers (PACs), Ethernet-based I/O systems, and PAC Project automation software.

The SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 breakout board holds up to 32 popular and guaranteed-for-life Opto 22 single-point G4 digital I/O modules (sold separately). These modules can provide up to 3 amps current switching or sensing per point, fused outputs, isolated inputs, and per-point LED indicators, depending on the G4 modules selected. For example, using G4 digital output modules on the breakout board lets a SNAP-ODC-32-SNK 32-point module switch up to 12 times its regular current load of 0.25 amps. Spring-clamp connectors secure field wiring and reduce installation time.

“The SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 breakout board lets us keep the original field wiring when we retrofit older thermoforming machines with modern SNAP PAC control systems,” says Chuck Phillips, Director of Electrical Engineering at Thermoforming Systems in Union Gap, Washington. “This reduces the labor and materials required,” he continues, “so we can submit lower and more competitive quotes for retrofit jobs.” Having G4 I/O modules on the breakout board is another benefit, says Phillips, pointing out that the single-point modules are convenient and easily changed if needed.

The SNAP-UDC-HDB breakout board consolidates wiring for a 32-point SNAP digital I/O module into a compact 4.0 in. x 3.3 in. (101 mm x 83 mm) board, which simplifies installation, reduces labor costs, and saves valuable space inside enclosures and machines. The SNAP-UDC-HDB board includes convenient per-point LED indicators that show point status and are invaluable for troubleshooting and maintenance. Easy-to-use spring-clamp connectors hold field wiring securely in place.

Supported I/O Modules and Required Cables

SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 breakout boards connect to SNAP-IDC-32DN and SNAP-IDC-32N digital input modules, and SNAP-ODC-32-SNK and SNAP-ODC-32-SNK-FM digital output modules. SNAP-UDC-HDB breakout boards work with all SNAP 32-point digital input and output modules. Both breakout boards connect to these 32-point SNAP digital I/O modules using the SNAP-HD-BF6 cable, available separately from Opto 22.