The SMS Controller P2P (Point to Point) mode is an innovative feature that automatically sends the digital and analogue (4-20mA) signals to and from its partner SMS Controller using text messages.
The text messages are initiated based on a configurable polling period ranging from every minute to once a week. This allows you to maintain I/O visibility whilst minimising the number of texts sent.
Our SMS Controllers are 4G so are not affected by the recent 3G network closures.
The P2P mode can be used in many applications where running a cable between sites is too hard, too expensive and where radio systems are impractical. In many ways the P2P mode operates like our Wireless Point to Point WP2P systems but uses texts over the 4G network instead of radio.
For applications using just digital I/O, text messages between SMS Controllers will be initiated each time a digital input changes state. We still recommend the polling period is used for these digital systems to keep the I/O synchronised frequently.
The P2P mode is ideal for applications with slow changing I/O. There is always a delay in sending text messages across the cellular networks so the P2P mode will not suit real time control loops or PID control etc.
The P2P mode is configured in SMS Messenger the dedicated SMS Controller app. Both partner SMS Controllers must be set as “SMSC-P2P” device types in the address book settings.
The polling mode must be enabled as this is used to periodically send texts between the controllers. Practically we also suggest that the SIM cards and accounts are with the same telco as this will help reduce the potential for network message delivery delays.
Comms fail between the partner SMS Controllers is also monitored. A digital output is configured which will activate and turn on after a configurable time.
The steps required to configure the SMS Controller are outlined in the user guide.
Regular text alerts to operators in the address book can also be used in P2P mode to maximise application use.
Update your SMS Messenger app to the latest version here.
The minimum requirements to use the P2P mode are SMS Controller firmware v2.06 and SMS Messenger app v1.5.7 or later.
And remember, SMS Controllers can also send text messages to other SMS Controllers to turn their digital outputs turn on. This is subtly different to the P2P mode. SMSC to SMSC texting is configured in SMS Messenger app using “SMSC” Device type in the address book.
Please contact us now for further information or a quotation.