New products this month include protocol gateways from ProSoft, CNC controllers and switches from Siemens, connectors from Helmholz, RFID controllers from Balluff, and intrinsically safe IPCs from Nexcom. (Click the headlines for details.)
Bringing PROFINET & Modbus Together
ProSoft Technology’s PROFINET to Modbus or Modbus® TCP gateways allow your PROFINET-based controller to connect to any Modbus or Modbus TCP-compatible device. With millions of PROFINET nodes worldwide and even more Modbus/Modbus TCP devices, the need for a gateway that will allow these two widely used protocols to communicate is self-evident. ProSoft offers four versions to give you the best solution for your application.
Set-up of automated cells made simple
With the Sinumerik 828 controllers, Siemens is now offering a simple solution for connecting robots to machine tools. This represents an integral part of automated production cells set-up. Sinumerik Integrate Run MyRobot/EasyConnect is based on a standard defined by the VDW and VDMA for connecting robots or handling systems to machine tools. To make it as easy as possible to use the interface, Siemens has merely taken over the main elements of the comprehensive standard. The robots are connected through PROFINET or using I/O signals.
RJ45 industrial connectors for PROFINET applications
The field-assembled RJ45 connectors from Systeme Helmholz for PROFINET are easy and quick to install. The industrial-grade metal housing provides the necessary ruggedness so that the plug can be used in many industrial applications. To save the user time in wiring, the RJ45 connector can be assembled in a single step using theEasyConnect® fast connection technology. Solid single wires and strands can be used, and the color-coded contact elements help prevent connection errors.
Ethernet switches permit flexible communication
Siemens is expanding its range of managed Industrial Ethernet switches with a new product line. The cost-effective Layer 2 Scalance XB-200 switches provide high data rates up to 100 Mbps and a multitude of functions. They support, for example, both the Profinet standard and other standards. Users can choose between them using a switchover function. As a result, the devices can be used for real-time communication in a variety of automation environments.
New Flexible RFID System
Balluff has completed the release of their latest industrial RFID system, the BIS V. Capable of reading three different frequencies of RFID tags, this system is designed to address the challenges of a flexible manufacturing environment. With four dedicated RFID ports and one IO-Link master port, RFID can now be mixed with sensors, hubs, actuators, and even SmartLight tower lights all in one processor. The BIS V has interfaces available for both PROFIBUS and PROFINET.
C1D2 Certified Panel PC Ensures Safe Operation for Hazardous Environments
NEXCOM’s panel PC, IPPC 1560TE, has been certified by UL for class 1 division 2 (C1D2) hazardous locations (HazLoc). Addressing corresponding safety requirements with intrinsically safe designs, the UL C1D2 certification ensures that the panel PC is ignition and explosion proof. Coupled with two PCI slots and two mini-PCIe slots available with PROFINET and PROFIBUS interfaces, the panel PC can integrate with PLCs and field devices to give accurate flow monitoring and control for oil and gas gathering and production operations.