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High-Density Signal Conditioning Modules Offer Bluetooth
A full line of microBlox™ isolated signal conditioning modules are now available from Acromag. Offering over 175 models, microBlox uB modules can safely interface a wide variety of voltage, current, temperature, frequency, and other field signals with a ±5V or 0-5V DC output to host measurement & control systems. Users can select modules with fixed ranges or wireless configuration via Bluetooth® wireless technology on an Android™ or iOS® mobile device. With 1500Vac peak (350Vdc continuous) channel-to-channel and field-to-host isolation, the hot-swappable modules are ideal to front-end data acquisition systems or Acromag remote I/O for communication to PROFIBUS or other networks.
PROFINET Interface for Actuators
A new interface for AC actuator controls now allows electric actuators from AUMA to be integrated into PROFINET networks. The interface meets the requirements of PROFINET specification 2.3 and supports Conformance Class B (CC-B). Baud rates of up to 100 Mbit/s are possible. Implementation into line and loop topologies is facilitated by the integrated switch function. Loop topologies additionally provide redundancy via the Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP). Physical connection is made via field-assembled RJ45 connectors. Commissioning, handling of actuators, and fault diagnostics are easy and convenient, thanks to features including automatic address assignment.
Segment Coupler Provides Speed on PROFIBUS DP
The basic segment coupler from Pepperl+Fuchs, the successor to its SK1 and SK2, brings PROFIBUS PA segments via its unique transparent fashion into PROFIBUS DP. The irony is, that it should be named “de-coupler” instead. With the basic segment coupler PROFIBUS PA nodes appear as DP nodes in the DCS and can be configured and diagnosed without additional tools. At the same time, both transmission rate and timing of the two bus systems are completely de-coupled. Communication to the DCS benefits from responses with zero delay by the PA nodes at a transmission rate of up to 1.5 MBit/s on PROFIBUS DP.
Narrow Switches for Long Distances
The particularly narrow Smart Managed Narrow Switches from Phoenix Contact are now available with fiberglass ports for covering medium and large distances. Thanks to two integrated FO ports in multimode or single mode version, the devices cover distances of up to 15 kilometers. They therefore also enable the connection of widely distributed network parts. Thanks to the integrated PROFINET device function, the switches are ideal for use in control environments in PROFINET applications. This enables the user to configure and diagnose the switch via the controller.
Absolute Rotary Encoders for Safety-Critical Systems
POSITAL has expanded its family of IXARC absolute rotary encoders to include models explicitly designed for use in safety-critical motion control systems. The new encoders feature redundant measurement elements and are certified to Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) and Performance Level d (PL d). They feature a PROFINET communications interface and support the PROFIsafe protocol. PROFIsafe-based control systems are used for critical applications such as industrial robots or material handling equipment, where loss of control could result inhazardous situation. The encoder transmits a safety position and/or safety velocity value.
ATEX/IECEx-Certified Absolute Rotary Encoder
The POSITAL ATEX/IECEx-certified rotary encoder with PROFINET is designed to operate safely in atmospheres where there are potentially dangerous levels of explosive gases or dust. These devices are part of the IXARC family of magnetic rotary sensors and are available in single- or multiturn versions. Rugged, reliable, and highly accurate, these devices can be ordered with a wide range of mounting and coupling options that ensure that they can be installed in zones 1 and 21 (as defined from the ATEX directive).
New Generation of Controllers for Rail Applications
New Siemens automation controllers for rail applications are being launched on the market. The new rail-tested and approved Siplus extreme rail devices are based on the latest generation of Simatic S7 controllers and are specially designed for the extreme conditions encountered in rail applications. Using this coordinated system, comprising new Siplus extreme rail equipment, PROFINET-based communication and engineering in the TIA Portal, the user can create efficient automation solutions for rail applications quickly and easily.