The Woodward 5501-471 NetCon SIO Module is a Serial Input/Output (SIO) communication module designed for use within the Woodward NetCon™ and MicroNet™ digital control platforms. It serves as a communication interface, enabling reliable serial data exchange between the control system and external field devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).

Built for harsh industrial conditions, this module supports multiple serial communication protocols including RS-232 and RS-485, and can be configured to support Modbus RTU or ASCII for flexible integration. As part of the modular NetCon architecture, the 5501-471 allows engineers to extend communication capabilities without redesigning the core system.

The module is typically used in turbine, engine, and generator control systems where dependable communication is mission-critical. With rugged construction, redundancy support, and diagnostics capabilities, the 5501-471 enhances the reliability and interoperability of Woodward-based control solutions.

Product Specifications

Applications

The Woodward 5501-471 module is widely adopted across industries where control systems must communicate reliably with remote field devices using serial protocols. Key application areas include:

• Turbine Control Systems

  Enables communication between Woodward controllers and auxiliary equipment in steam, gas, or hydro turbines.

• Generator Monitoring & Control

  Facilitates communication with external meters, protection relays, and excitation systems in power plants.

• Oil & Gas Automation

  Connects to pressure transmitters, flow computers, and RTUs in upstream and midstream systems.

• Marine Automation Systems

  Integrates with marine-grade PLCs and distributed engine management systems.

• Industrial SCADA Integration

  Serves as a serial communication link between the Woodward controller and remote HMI or SCADA terminals.

• CHP (Combined Heat & Power)

  Allows efficient synchronization between control logic and local building management systems or genset controllers.

Product Advantages

• Multi-Protocol Flexibility

  Supports widely used serial standards and protocols, simplifying integration with third-party equipment.

• Robust Industrial Design

  Engineered for continuous operation in industrial environments with high electrical noise and temperature fluctuations.

• Redundancy Capability

  Supports redundant communication pathways for high-availability systems.

• Configurable Serial Ports

  RS-232/RS-485 ports can be configured independently to support different protocols and functions.

• Compact and Modular

  Space-saving design fits seamlessly into the Woodward NetCon system rack.

• Status Diagnostics

  LED indicators assist with troubleshooting communication faults and verifying link status.

• Secure and Reliable

  Features optical isolation and grounding protection for sensitive communication circuits.

• Global Standards Compliance

  Certified for industrial, marine, and energy applications under leading global safety and environmental standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main function of the 5501-471 SIO Module?

   It enables serial communication between the Woodward control system and external field devices like PLCs or sensors.

2. Which serial communication protocols does the module support?

   It supports RS-232 and RS-485 physical layers, and Modbus RTU/ASCII protocols.

3. How many serial ports are available on this module?

   The module has two configurable serial communication ports.

4. Can I use both RS-232 and RS-485 on the same module?

   Yes, each port can be independently configured for RS-232 or RS-485 depending on the application.

5. Does the 5501-471 support redundant configurations?

   Yes, it can be used in redundant NetCon or MicroNet systems to ensure communication fault tolerance.

6. What is the maximum supported baud rate?

   The module supports baud rates up to 115.2 kbps.

7. Are the serial ports isolated from each other?

   Yes, the ports are optically isolated to prevent electrical interference and ground loops.

8. Can I perform firmware updates on this module?

   Firmware is generally fixed, but updates can be performed using Woodward engineering tools when necessary.

9. Does the module support diagnostic feedback?

   Yes, LED indicators provide real-time communication and error status for each serial port.

10. Is the 5501-471 hot-swappable?

    No, power must be turned off before inserting or removing this module to prevent damage.