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The Merlin Multi-Valve Control Board (MVB) is a board-level interface subsystem designed to control multiple Merlin Air Valves.
In use, the MVB controls a group of Merlin Proportional Air Valves or Air Muscles. It also provides an analogue input for each control output.
The main control board plugs into subsidiary “I/O” boards, which support 8 inputs and 8 outputs.
Extra I/O boards may be added, up to a maximum of 16 (max 128 I/O).
The MVB is controlled by a master/slave host command protocol, which can address multiple boards on the same link.
It can be accessed either over an RS232 serial link, or via a 10-BaseT Ethernet converter (optionally fitted).
For larger or physically-distributed systems, multiple MVBs can also be controlled over a single common communications channel.
Electrical details
Drive outputs
- Normally configured to drive Merlin Air Valves from a 5.0V supply rail
- Current-controlled up to about 0.75A
- Current limited, with voltage “foldback” to prevent overload.
Sensor inputs
- Configurable for resistive, current or voltage-based inputs
- Normally supplied configured for “force-sensitive resistor” or Merlin stretch sensors.
Power requirements
- Board has two separate voltage rails, normally supplied from an ATX-type PC power supply
- High-current valve drive supply is normally +5.0V, at around 0.75A peak capacity per valve (ie about 6A per I/O board).
Accessories
Downloads and resources
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