Patent ID: 9013854
Filing Date: 2015-04-21
Classification: H01F

Abstract:
1. A method for operating a solenoid using a configurable, connectorized input/output module electrically connected to a coil of said solenoid, comprising the steps of: (a) in response to a solenoid drive signal becoming true, connecting an actuation voltage and establishing an actuation current to the coil by said module, wherein said actuation voltage and actuation current cause said solenoid to close or seal; (b) on closing or sealing said solenoid, changing to a sustain voltage and sustain current on the coil by said module, said sustain voltage or sustain current being less than said actuation voltage or actuation current and keeping said solenoid in a closed or sealed position; and (c) maintaining said sustain voltage and sustain current by said module; wherein said module includes a device communication connector apparatus for connecting at least one conductor between said module and said solenoid, and an interface apparatus for causing said module to place any of a plurality of signals on any of a plurality of contacts of said device communication connector apparatus.