Eurotherm 2216e communication

Question

I plan to purchase a eurotherm 2216e controller.  I am not very familar with labview but I want to communicate with this unit.  I am not sure if I should get the controller with Modbus or Bisync format.  Which is easier to configure?  I am using RS232 communication.  I need to be able to update a setpoint, update a high and low alarm setpoint as well as the ramp rate.
I am not sure if this is something I should ask the seller (eurotherm).

Answer 1

You have more options if you use Modbus.
 1)      You can use iTools a configuration and communication software package from Eurotherm.  Download available here: http://www.eurotherm.co.uk/products/controllers/itools/ This package will detect the instrument and display all its parameters and their modbus addresses and allow you to change settings and values.
2)      If you prefer to use Labview then you can use the Eurotherm 2400 range Labview driver. This can be found in the NI Instrument Driver Library, search for Eurotherm and select 2404.
Alternatively here is the link: http://sine.ni.com/apps/utf8/niid_web_display.model_page?p_model_id=2529
Although this driver is designed for the 24xx range it also supports the 22xx range. The et24xxReadme.html file (Included in the driver) gives more details.
Once you install the vis you can use them to read and write pre configured parameters and create your own application. 
If you need other parameters that are not available in the existing vis, you can use the Read and Write vis and enter the modbus addresses for the parameters you want to use.
The “2000 Series MODBUS and EI-BISYNCH Digital Communications Handbook” has all the information you need (modbus addresses, wiring, diagrams, etc).  Available for download form: http://www.eurotherm.co.uk/document-library/?ignoreeveryonegroup=0&assetdetesctl1357234=1833&search=...
Dimitris