1. Product Overview

Product Name: MAQ20-BKPL4
Model: MAQ20-BKPL4
Series: MAQ20 Data Acquisition and Control System
Article Number: MAQ20-BKPL4
Manufacturer: Dataforth Corporation

The MAQ20-BKPL4 is a DIN rail backbone designed for the Dataforth MAQ20 modular data acquisition and control system. It serves as the structural and electrical foundation for connecting one communications (COM) module and up to four I/O modules. The backbone distributes both power and communication signals between modules, enabling a compact, scalable, and easily configurable system architecture. As part of the MAQ20 family, the BKPL4 model is optimized for small to medium-sized installations requiring high reliability, modular flexibility, and industrial-grade performance.

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2. Key Features

- Integrated Power and Communication Distribution: The backbone provides both power and RS-485 communication pathways between the COM module and all connected I/O modules.
- Compact DIN Rail Mounting: Designed for installation on standard 35 × 7.5 mm gull-wing DIN rails, ensuring compatibility with common industrial enclosures and control panels.
- Scalable System Design: Supports one COM module and four I/O modules; additional backbones (BKPL8, BKPL16, BKPL24) can be interconnected for larger systems.
- Hot-Swappable Modules: I/O modules can be inserted or removed while the system is powered, with automatic recognition and configuration by the communications module.
- Plug-and-Run Operation: The system automatically detects module insertion/removal, updates configuration records, and enables immediate use in host software.
- Mechanical Reverse Protection: Physical keying prevents incorrect module installation, protecting both modules and backbone from damage.
- Durable and Vibration-Resistant Contacts: Ensures long service life and reliable operation in demanding industrial environments.
- Expandable for Distributed Installation: Male/female pluggable connectors at each end allow direct interconnection or remote expansion using accessory cables up to 100 ft (30 m).
- Simplified System Wiring: Reduces wiring complexity by integrating power and communication distribution within the DIN rail backbone.
- Industrial-Grade Environmental Performance: Operates reliably across a wide temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and in high-humidity environments (up to 95% non-condensing).

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3. Technical Specifications

Model: MAQ20-BKPL4
Description: DIN Rail Backbone; supports 1 COM module plus 4 I/O modules

Mechanical Dimensions:
- Height: 5.05 in (127.1 mm)
- Width: 0.94 in (3.9 mm)
- Depth: Standard DIN rail profile (35 × 7.5 mm mounting rail)

Weight: Not explicitly specified; lightweight aluminum or composite construction typical of MAQ20 backbones.

Materials: Industrial-grade materials with vibration-resistant contacts and spring clip mounting hardware.

Mounting:
- Standard 35 × 7.5 mm DIN rail (gull-wing type)
- Spring clips secure the backbone to the rail; modules further lock the assembly in place.

Electrical Characteristics:
- Circuitry: Passive (no active electronic components)
- Inter-Module Communication: RS-485 differential serial bus
- Power Distribution: Shared bus for all connected modules

Expansion Connectivity:
- Mechanical male/female pluggable terminal blocks at each end
- Supports direct interconnection or remote installation via expansion cable
- Maximum expansion distance: 100 ft (30 m)

Environmental Ratings:
- Operating Temperature: –40°C to +85°C
- Storage Temperature: –40°C to +85°C
- Relative Humidity: 0–95% non-condensing

Certifications and Compliance:
- Heavy Industrial CE compliance
- ATEX certification pending
- UL Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, D (pending)
- Manufactured under ISO 9001:2008-registered quality management system

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4. Functionality

The MAQ20-BKPL4 serves as the electrical and mechanical backbone of a MAQ20 modular data acquisition system. It integrates power and communication buses within the DIN rail channel, allowing seamless interconnection between the system’s communication module and up to four I/O modules.

When installed, the backbone provides:
- Power Distribution: Supplies regulated power from the COM module to all connected I/O modules.
- Data Communication: Facilitates RS-485 serial communication between modules, enabling synchronized data acquisition and control.
- System Recognition: The COM module automatically detects connected I/O modules, registers them in the system configuration, and makes them available to the host software.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial process monitoring and control
- Test and measurement systems
- Factory automation and machine control
- Remote data acquisition installations
- Distributed sensor networks
- Laboratory instrumentation setups

Compatibility:
- Fully compatible with all MAQ20 I/O modules and communications modules (e.g., MAQ20-COMx series).
- Can be combined with other MAQ20 backbones (BKPL8, BKPL16, BKPL24) for larger systems.
- Supports both local and distributed configurations using expansion cables.

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5. Components & Accessories

Included Components:
- MAQ20-BKPL4 backbone assembly with integrated power and communication bus
- Spring clip mounting hardware for DIN rail installation
- Male and female pluggable connectors at each end for expansion

Optional Accessories:
- Expansion Cable: Allows remote connection between multiple backbones (up to 100 ft / 30 m).
- Additional Backbones: BKPL8, BKPL16, BKPL24 for system expansion.
- MAQ20-COM Module: Required for system operation; provides communication interface to host computer or network.
- MAQ20 I/O Modules: Analog input/output, digital input/output, and specialty modules for signal acquisition and control.

Connectors:
- Pluggable terminal blocks (male/female) for interconnection
- RS-485 communication bus integrated within the backbone

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6. Installation & Setup

Installation Requirements:
- Standard 35 × 7.5 mm DIN rail (gull-wing type)
- Suitable enclosure or control panel with adequate ventilation
- Compatible MAQ20 COM module and I/O modules

Mounting Procedure:
1. Snap the MAQ20-BKPL4 backbone onto the DIN rail using the integrated spring clips.
2. Install the COM module in the designated first position.
3. Insert up to four I/O modules into the remaining positions.
4. Ensure modules are properly seated; mechanical keying prevents reverse installation.
5. Connect power and communication interfaces as required.

Configuration:
- Once power is applied, the COM module automatically detects all installed I/O modules.
- The system updates its configuration record and enables modules in the host software.
- Modules can be hot-swapped; insertion or removal is automatically recognized.

Expansion Setup:
- For distributed installations, connect additional backbones using the accessory expansion cable.
- Maintain total expansion distance within 100 ft (30 m).
- Ensure proper termination and grounding per MAQ20 system guidelines.

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7. Performance & Capabilities

Speed and Communication:
- RS-485 inter-module communication ensures robust, noise-immune data transfer suitable for industrial environments.
- Supports high-speed data acquisition and control through the MAQ20 COM module interface.

Capacity:
- Supports one COM module and up to four I/O modules.
- System can be expanded by interconnecting additional backbones for up to 24 I/O modules in a single 19" rack configuration.

Efficiency:
- Passive circuitry minimizes power loss and heat generation.
- Compact design optimizes space utilization within control panels.

Reliability and Durability:
- Vibration-resistant contacts and rugged mechanical design ensure long-term reliability.
- Mechanical keying prevents incorrect module insertion, reducing risk of damage.
- Hot-swappable modules minimize downtime during maintenance or reconfiguration.

Limitations:
- Maximum expansion distance limited to 100 ft (30 m).
- Requires a MAQ20 COM module for operation; backbone alone does not function independently.
- Designed for MAQ20 system modules only; not compatible with non-MAQ20 devices.

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8. Standards & Compliance

Certifications:
- CE (Heavy Industrial): Complies with European standards for electromagnetic compatibility and safety in industrial environments.
- ATEX (Pending): Intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, pending certification.
- UL Class I, Division 2 (Pending): Suitable for hazardous locations, Groups A, B, C, D.

Quality Management:
- Manufactured under ISO 9001:2008-registered Quality Management System, ensuring consistent production quality and traceability.

Industry Standards:
- DIN rail mounting per EN 60715 (35 × 7.5 mm standard).
- RS-485 communication per TIA/EIA-485-A standard.
- Designed for compliance with industrial EMC and safety directives.

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9. Additional Information

Warranty:
- Standard Dataforth limited warranty (details available from manufacturer).
- Covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions.

Support:
- Technical support available via Dataforth Corporation’s customer service and engineering teams.
- Documentation, manuals, and software tools available for download at www.dataforth.com/maq20_download.aspx.

Maintenance:
- Minimal maintenance required due to passive circuitry and robust mechanical design.
- Periodic inspection recommended to ensure secure module seating and clean contacts.

Software & Updates:
- System configuration and monitoring performed through MAQ20 host software.
- Firmware updates for COM modules available from Dataforth’s website.

Ordering Information:
- MAQ20-BKPL4: DIN Rail Backbone; 1 COM Module plus 4 I/O Modules
- MAQ20-BKPL8: DIN Rail Backbone; 1 COM Module plus 8 I/O Modules
- MAQ20-BKPL16: DIN Rail Backbone; 1 COM Module plus 16 I/O Modules
- MAQ20-BKPL24: DIN Rail Backbone; 1 COM Module plus 24 I/O Modules

Manufacturer Contact:
Dataforth Corporation
3331 E. Hemisphere Loop, Tucson, AZ 85706 USA
Phone: 800-444-7644
Website: [www.dataforth.com](https://www.dataforth.com)

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Summary

The Dataforth MAQ20-BKPL4 is a compact, industrial-grade DIN rail backbone that forms the foundation of the MAQ20 modular data acquisition and control system. Designed to host one communications module and up to four I/O modules, it integrates power and RS-485 communication distribution within a single, rugged assembly. Its modular, hot-swappable design simplifies system configuration, expansion, and maintenance, while ensuring reliable operation in harsh industrial environments. With compliance to CE standards, pending ATEX and UL certifications, and ISO 9001:2008 manufacturing quality, the MAQ20-BKPL4 delivers a robust and scalable platform for precision data acquisition, control, and monitoring applications across a wide range of industries.