Using FLOW-BUS with FlowSuite

• FLOW-BUS is an original RS485 communication protocol from Bronkhorst, a global manufacturer of low flow instrumentation.
• FlowSuite is a flow programming app from Bronkhorst that relies on RS232 to connect flow instrumentation for programming while enabling data logging.
• Combining Bronkhorst’s in-house software with its high quality low flow instrumentation allows wide flexibility and increased capabilities for many users.

FLOW-BUS

FLOW-BUS is an ethernet communication protocol from Bronkhorst. It uses RS485 technology for digital communication between multiple digital devices. This communication protocol offers the possibility of host-control by PC (i.e. FlowSuite, LabVIEW, Python).

FlowSuite

FlowSuite is an application for monitoring and service purposes on Bronkhorst digital instruments via a single interface or with multiple windows for multiple devices. This software offers good insight into the dynamic behavior of Bronkhorst flow meters and controllers.

Advantages of Using FlowSuite

• allows adjustment of controller, alarm, and counter settings
• built-in trend chart graph for four devices
• each device can trend up to 7 inputs
• data export as a comma-separated value file (CSV), thus enabling data logging

Communication is via RS232 using the PC USB port. It also has a fixed 38400 bps baud rate. FlowSuite polls and scan each device separately and as you add devices to a USB port, the longer the update time for the software. For more information and download please visit: Get Bronkhorst FlowSuite. This app is available for Apple, Android, and Microsoft devices.

Using FLOW-BUS Communication Protocol for Process Control

Bronkhorst instruments are offer a micro-controller for exchanging parameter value information with other instruments and devices connected to the same FLOW-BUS system and/or via RS232 to a PC. For example, it works will with our Controlled Evaporative Mixing (CEM) device, EL-FLOW Prestige, mini CORI-FLOW, MASS-STREAM, IN-FLOW, pressure controllers, etc.

• Bronkhorst devices are connected via FLOW-BUS, RS485 (red cables)
• PC USB port connects via RS232 to the first device (green cable)
• FlowSuite displays the PV (Process Variables), controls the SP (Setpoint), along with graphing and data logging up to 4 devices
• Standard RJ45 Shielded (F)TP patch cable or M12 (DeviceNet) cable supplies the FLOW-BUS signal and 24 Vdc power
• 1A @ 24Vdc or 24 Watts is the max power for RJ45 Shielded (F)TP patch cable, 4A for the M12 cables

Other Ethernet Communication Protocol Considerations

FLOW-BUS and Modbus is a LINE topology serial communication protocol over RS485. Each device must be “daisy chained” one after another with begin and end resistors.

• Max cable length from Multiport Adapter to Device is 0.5m (20”)
• LINE Topology
• STAR Topology FORBIDDEN
• Is not like a PoE Ethernet Switch and not to be connect like an Ethernet switch