The LTX-100 gateway not only eliminates the challenges and costs of running wires; it also performs the functions of multiple devices simultaneously. The LTX-100 enables Modbus, LoRa, Ethernet, 4–20 mA, HART, and optional cellular connectivity in a single device.
Plants are connected to their inventory data without added complexity. Plant operations personnel can easily integrate new level sensors as capacity increases by implementing modular expansion cards, allowing a single LTX-100 to support additional sensors. Workers can feel confident as they enhance operations and remain in full control of bulk material management.
How Seamless Scalability Makes a Difference
A key principle in optimized manufacturing is real-time inventory visibility. Automated sensors and level indicators that provide timely alerts eliminate the need for workers to climb vessels, take manual measurements, and constantly maintain spreadsheets—which leave room for injury liability, human error, or misinterpreted readings.
While data provided by level sensors is sufficient on its own, inventory management software—such as BinMaster’s cloud-based interface, BinCloud®, or its locally hosted alternative, Binventory® 2.0—transforms the numbers into user-friendly infographics, exportable reports, and actionable insights.
At the heart of these sensor-and-software systems are robust network gateways—which is where the “all-in-one” LTX-100 comes in.
The LTX-100 combines multiple connectivity functions into one compact, affordable device. The standard model communicates with sensors that utilize Modbus and LoRa communications. Adding modular input cards expands the gateway’s capabilities to include 4-20 mA and HART methods. One LTX-100 device supports up to 30 sensors simultaneously, regardless of protocol.
Send real-time measurement data directly to BinCloud software or another LTX via one mile line-of-sight transmission. Multiple LTX-100s can be utilized to expand the range of communication. Users can also opt for a cellular modem for long-distance delivery.
As a company’s manufacturing needs grow, LTX-based networks expand accordingly. BinMaster’s experts work alongside supervisors to specify layout plans and pre-configure IP addressing on each gateway for hassle-free setup.
Less Devices, Same Functionality
A standard industrial network may include routers and modems, data hubs, switches, expansion technology, and data access points—plus an overarching gateway to transmit information reliably to an end point.
The total expense for a system of devices can consume allotted budgets quickly. Added costs of electrician visits, cables, and lost readings due to troubleshooting or downtime can be unexpected—and perhaps even detrimental to both new and retrofit projects.
The LTX-100 eliminates complexity from the equation of system configuration. It combines features from multiple communication devices, thus freeing up cash for other expansion-related costs. Thereby, the LTX eliminates the need for additional equipment, including:
- Analog expansion hubs
- HART consolidator modules
- Wireless transceivers
- Gateway controllers
The LTX-100 gateway handles data transmission and protocol conversion. Instead of purchasing, installing, and configuring new network hardware when incorporating sensors of different communications methods, a user must only add affordable input cards to the LTX-100 configuration to enable connectivity with 4-20 mA and/or HART sensors.
One totalized gateway at the center of a network of level sensors and software streamlines more than data distribution; troubleshooting becomes simpler, too. The LTX-100 becomes the “single point of contact.” If the chain of transmission is broken, operators don’t have to fumble with problem diagnosis, calling multiple technical support phone numbers, or locating proper documentation.
The Power of Seamless Integration
Project managers will likely outfit network devices compatible with existing equipment when updating or adding operational locations. They may even choose to duplicate previous instrumentation orders to maintain consistency with other plants.
All plants operating on a similar system allow for data consolidation in a single software interface, increasing transparency across an entire enterprise.
A retrofit-friendly network gateway that supports multiple communications methods makes assimilation of all plants easier. Sensors of any type can be integrated into data workflows and can feed measurements to automation equipment for smarter processing.
The LTX-100 gateway offers synergy with inventory sensors from BinMaster, liquid level and distance ranging ultrasonics from Senix, and load cell-based weighing systems from BinTrac. Sensors of the same or different kinds—regardless of protocol or method of measurement—can be linked to one LTX wirelessly or in a daisy-chain.
For example, a plastics packaging manufacturer may choose to implement:
- A CNCR-190 compact radar sensor in a tall resin storage silo for real-time visibility of pellet inventory
- A-Frame load cells, affixed to the legs of a weigh hopper that delivers precise batches of bulk material into the plant
- ToughSonic® ultrasonic sensors, mounted in tanks to ensure adequate levels of cooling water utilized during injection molding processes
With an LTX-100 connected to BinCloud software, all sensor readings are displayed on one dashboard. Measurements are collected by sensors, pushed to the gateway, then sent to BinCloud software for straightforward data representation. Infographics, charts, and reports update continuously to ensure users access the most current information.
Level indicators of other brands can also be easily integrated, so long as they operate via a supported communications method.
Simpler Networks. Increased Capacity.
The expandable LTX-100 gateway makes operational growth less painless for planning, procurement, and financial teams. Bulk material levels are accessible and can be easily replenished, both during day-to-day production and throughout transitionary periods.
Instead of collecting measurements themselves, workers have more time to dedicate to high-value tasks—such as data-driven decision making—and can let sensors and software automate tedious processes on their behalf.
Whether adding more vessels to an existing worksite, incorporating additional level sensors, or building an inventory management system from scratch, a location’s complete data management needs are handled with BinMaster’s LTX-100.
Visit BinMaster.com to request a quote and begin planning your optimized network layout today.
