Abstract: A technique for operating a communication system includes determining whether a specific node of the communication system is a start node. In response to determining the specific node is the start node, transmission of a header over a communication link of the communication system for each frame period is initiated. The frame period also includes a plurality of address segments each of which has an associated data number. In response to determining the specific node is the start node, data numbers for address segments are compared with associated I/O module address settings to determine if a data number is equal to one of the associated I/O module address settings. In response to determining the data number is equal to one of the associated I/O module address settings, transmission of node configuration and data from an input module (included in associated I/O modules) or zeroes for an output module (included in the associated I/O modules) is initiated.

Abstract: A technique for operating a communication system includes determining whether a specific node of the communication system is a start node. In response to determining the specific node is the start node, transmission of a header over a communication link of the communication system for each frame period is initiated. The frame period also includes a plurality of address segments each of which has an associated data number. In response to determining the specific node is the start node, data numbers for address segments are compared with associated I/O module address settings to determine if a data number is equal to one of the associated I/O module address settings. In response to determining the data number is equal to one of the associated I/O module address settings, transmission of node configuration and data from an input module (included in associated I/O modules) or zeroes for an output module (included in the associated I/O modules) is initiated.

Abstract: A sensor and housing suitable for harsh environments includes a central axis and first and second housing sections. The first housing section includes a first fitting including a mating surface orthogonal to the axis and a tapered recess formed in the mating surface and coaxial with the axis. The tapered recess has a decreasing internal dimension at points further from the mating surface and terminates at a faceted recess. The second housing section includes a second fitting having a flange and a frusto-conical projection terminating in a faceted tip. When the first and second housing are coupled, the flange and mating surface are aligned, the frusto-conical projection contacts an interior surface of the first fitting that defines the tapered recess, and the faceted tip seats within the faceted recess. The housing may include a head for housing sensor electronics and a shield that encloses the head and is spaced from the head by an air gap.