A communications adapter is provided for interfacing between a master device and an I/O device (body) having an output and/or an input. In the case of the I/O body having an output, the adapter has a TCP port for coupling to the master device via a transmission path for receiving a request message. The...http://www.google.com/patents/US7590702?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US7590702 - Messaging application layer over ethernet to transport layer (TCP) communications method and apparatus for a modular terminal input/output system
