Patent ID: 7844365
Filing Date: 2010-11-30
Classification: G05B,G06F,H05K

Abstract:
1. A field-mountable process device comprising: a power over Ethernet module coupled to a port, the module being adapted to wholly power the process device with power received through the port, and to communicate in accordance with Ethernet communication; a controller coupled to the power over Ethernet module and configured to measure or control industrial processes; a first connection operably coupled to the controller and the power over Ethernet module through a power isolator and a communication isolator, the first connection being wired to at least one sensor through a plurality of first terminals; a second connection operably coupled to the controller and the power over Ethernet module through a power isolator and a communication isolator, the second connection being wired to at least a second process interface element through a plurality of second terminals; a first multiplexer coupled to the plurality of first terminals; and a first analog-to-digital converter coupled to the controller and the first multiplexer, the first converter being adapted to convert an analog signal from one of the plurality of first terminals, into a digital value and to convey the digital signal to the controller.