NSX PowerTag

[Peter_Hall]

In the past we have used a concentrator to collect NSX PowerTag information. Now we understand that this can be done by using a Panel Sever. However, how do we give our customers local visibility on the panel? it used to be done by adding an FDM128 to the system which would pick up from the concentrators fitted within the switchboard. To get information on the panel servers in the UK is not the easiest task!

In the past we would fit a concentrator to each cable way to connect to PowerTags in the columns that feed into that cable way. Is there a replacement for the concentrator? i cannot think that we would need to use multiple Panel Servers? Any recommendations as to how many columns of outgoing NSX MCCB's the new Panel Servers can connect to?

[RHH · Accepted solution]

Yes, the panel server by itself is a concentrator as well. Looking at the PAS600 and PAS800, but to get both local and ‘cloud’ we used micrologic E instead of the PowerTags and wire that out with an panel server/concentrator and FDM. P.s. I believe we used something else instead of the panel servers because yes they are quite expensive. But with our setup we could get max. 8 per concentrator, I don’t remember if that was the max usage of the FDM12(8) or the max usage of the concentrator though. Maybe both.

In the product page I added to this reply you can see both panel server and meter (display) connected. I hope this is what you meant, otherwise I would gladly hear it and try to be of assistance in another way.

[Peter_Hall]

Hi Rick,

Thank you for your reply. When we used the concentrator in the past with the FDM128 each concentrator became a landing page 'tile' therefore we had as you say 8 tiles/concentrators. When we opened each tile we found 20 devices connected. Therefore in theory it would be possible to connect 8 x concentrators x 20 devices (older type concentrators) = 160 devices.... A useful tool. However, from what i am seeing this morning i think that the new offer of panel server is clearly aimed at the BMS/Cloud connection with NSX 'E' trip units being used for applications that require local indication. An opportunity missed? All that was needed was two Ethernet ports on both the concentrators and the FDM128 and you had almost the perfect setup....

[Szymon_Hochół]

Hi @Peter_Hall ,

first, could you please confirm what "concentrator" you used in the past? Was it PowerTag Link?

I confirm that indeed, Panel Server is the replacement for variety of legacy communication devices, including PowerTag Link for wireless. PAS600 is the way to go today, and later this year a PAS400 will be launched to provide more cost-effective, yet wireless-only option.

Back to your question, PAS600 does support PowerTag NSX and it does support FDM128. All the information is to be found in FDM128 User Manual:

You can also refer to Panel Server User Manual and Release Notes.

Finally, there is a dedicated forum section for the gateways. This is the best place to ask questions about these devices, as it is regularly visited by product experts.

Hope this helps.

Regards

[Peter_Hall]

Hi Szymon,

Thank you for your reply. In the past we have fitted Smartlink SI-D units to the cableways and connected to the NSX PowerTag units. We then connected the FDM128 to the SI-D units via TCP/IP and connected to our customers network directly or used a Com'X 210 and split the ports.

I understand the connection to the FDM128 and to the customers network via the Panel Server. Is there a replacement for SI-D units which we would fit into each outgoing cable way?

Point noted in regards to positing on the Gateway specific forum.

Unfortunately information on these replacement devices is a little vague in the UK at the moment.

Best regards,

Peter Hall.

[Szymon_Hochół · Accepted solution]

Hi @Peter_Hall ,

Smartlink SI-D (A9XMWA20) is already discontinued and was replaced by PowerTag Link (A9XMWD20):

PowerTag Link is also reaching end of its life and the device to replace it is EcoStruxure Panel Server (PAS):

The most 1:1 replacement of SI-D and PTag Link is Panel Server Entry(PAS400) - it has exactly the same form factor, power supply and also 1 ETH port:

The thing is - it is not launched yet, will be available mid-2023. So if you're looking for a replacement today, the best fit is Panel Server Universal (PAS600). It is slightly wider, but in exchange offers dual ETH ports to make you wiring easier:

Also, please note that all Panel Server models have WiFi feature - so wiring might not be needed at all.

Cheers