Yokogawa Electric Corporation (www.yokogawa.com) has optimized its STARDOM network-based control system to include new modules and enhance its monitoring and control software. Comprised of FCN/FCJ autonomous controllers, the STARDOM network-based control system is utilized as the main controller of equipment in small- to medium-size manufacturing plants. However, with the advent of various applications, users need […]
PLCs + PACs
AMCI adds Profibus-DP to NR25 encoder lineup
Advanced Micro Controls Inc. (AMCI) (www.amci.com) has expanded its lineup of NR25 series encoders with the addition of Profibus-DP communication. Compatible with all PLCs supporting Profibus-DP, the all-new AMCI NR25 Profibus-DP encoders feature up to 30 bit resolution and are offered in both multi-turn and single-turn versions. Using a “daisy-chain” bus topology, the Profibus-DP encoders […]
ABB equips AC500 PLCs with remote control protocol
The Scalable AC500 PLCs from ABB Australia (www.abbaustralia.com.au) provides full functionality in a single unit as it is equipped with IEC 60 870-5-104 remote control protocol. The web server integrated range includes ‘Extreme Conditions’ PLCs that can operate even at high temperatures and high altitudes in wet conditions. They also offer greater tolerance to hazardous […]
Beckhoff’s DIN rail-mountable controller features multi-optional interface
Beckhoff (www.beckhoff.com) has equipped the fanless CX9020, which is a DIN rail-mountable controller, with 1 GHz ARM Cortex A8 processor, making it suitable for various PLC and Motion Control applications in small-sized as well as medium-sized machines, buildings or systems. Featuring a very compact design, the new controller has also been fitted with a microSD […]
Melsec L series positioning modules adds simple motion module
Mitsubishi Electric (www.mitsubishielectric.com) has optimized its Melsec L series positioning modules to include a “simple motion module”, which offers various advanced functions such as torque and speed control, using simple parameter settings. The module supports circular interpolation of two axes, linear interpolation of up to four axes, continuous orbit control and fixed feed control. Users […]
Aerotech unveils A3200 MotionPAC software-based PLC
Aerotech (www.aerotech.com) has announced that it has integrated the A3200 MotionPAC software-based programmable logic controller (PLC) with its A3200 motion controller to optimize programming quality and efficiency while reducing development time. Compliant with PLCopen and IEC 61131-3, the MotionPAC can be used in conjunction with AeroBasic programs or independently for full machine control. It also […]
Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 5570 Series offer memory and speed
Rockwell Automation (www.rockwellautomation.com) has proudly released a range of programmable automation controllers (PACs) that offer manufacturers higher processing speed as it supports over 100 axes of motion. Seamlessly integrating through SERCOS and EtherNet/IP network interfaces, the Allen-Bradley Controllogix 5570 Series features optimized process, safety, motion and information capabilities. The new series does not only increase […]
Rockwell Automation introduces two new programmable logic controllers
Rockwell Automation (www.rockwellautomation.com) has announced the release of its two new Allen-Bradley controllers, the Micro830 and Micro810, as well as the Connected Components software. A part of the Allen-Bradley Micro800 range, the component-class micro programmable controllers provides machine manufactures a cost-effective control solution, making them suitable for standalone machine applications with less than 48 I/O. […]
What are programmable logic controllers (PLCs)? A technical summary
Updated May 2015 || Programmable logic controllers — or PLCs — are highly specialized, programmable microprocessor-based controllers used to control a specific application on a machine or a process. They are used in automation and manufacturing to control assembly lines and machinery on factory floors as well as many other types of mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment in a plant. […]
What are Machine Controllers? Technical Summary for Motion Engineers
In the most general sense, a controller receives some type of input and produces outputs for some device, most commonly an electric motor. More specifically, machine control, unlike a more specific type of controller such as a motion controller, refers to the control of an entire stand-alone machine such as a CNC machine, packaging machine, […]