Digital Outputs for menTCS
The K7 is a safe digital output card for use in the menTCS MEN Train Control System. The menTCS platform performs safe train control functions in rolling stock applications like Automated Train Protection (ATP) or CBTC (Communications Based Train Control). It usually consists of a controller system, e.g., MH50C, and safe remote I/O boxes, e.g., KT8. The K7 can be plugged into any of these systems, with one card providing 8 safe digital outputs with read-back and testing capabilities.
Safe Communication using EtherCAT and FSoE
menTCS I/O boards are EtherCAT slave devices, connected to the host via a backplane "EBUS" link. On top of EtherCAT, a safety layer called FSoE (Fail Safe Over EtherCAT) provides safe real-time Ethernet communication between the host system and the I/O board.
Made for Rail I/O Functions
The K7 can switch voltages from 24 V to 110 V nominal as specified by EN 50155. Typical loads are relay coils, digital inputs of other systems or LED indicators. The outputs are low-side switching, i.e. the load has to be connected to the high side. The I/O card provides functional safety: it enters the safe state if it detects an error. Front I/O is connected via a 24-pin PCB plug for fast installation thanks to reduced wiring.
Safety-Certified
The K7 is certified to CENELEC standards EN 50128 and EN 50129. The board is developed in a SIL 4 process according to EN 50128 and EN 50129. The systematic capability of the K7 is SIL 3 according to IEC 61508. However, to control a SIL 4 function according to EN 50128 and EN 50129 or SIL 3 function according to IEC 61508, the system design must provide a second cut-off path to put the load into a safe state. All menTCS I/O components come with dedicated certification packages from TÜV SÜD,
reducing the integrator's certification effort and risk, and resulting in lower integration costs.
EN 50155 Rolling Stock Compliance
Being usable in all types of different trains optimizes the card's interoperability. It supports operating temperatures of -40°C to +85°C according to EN 50155 class TX. Standard boards include conformal coating. With full EN 50155 compliance and a long-term availability on the market of 10 years minimum from the start of series production, the K7 is a rail-ready component. If required, the K7 can also comply to Railways (Wayside) standard EN 50121-4 and Industrial standard EN 61000-4-5 by connecting an external EMC suppressor circuitry.
Safe Software Concept
All menTCS components are supported by certified QNX BSP and driver software. Application software accesses the K7 via the PACY software framework (Process Data Framework for Cyclic Applications). Its API allows the application to control and monitor all features of the K7.
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