Siemens process control system offers new functions

The Industry Automation Division of Siemens (www.usa.siemens.com/process) has equipped its Simatic PCS 7 process control system Version 8 with a host of new features, including an easier engineering workflow and improved data exchange. It also offers more powerful communication, fault-tolerant and redundancy-related functions to its controllers as well... [Read more]

Grundfos’ new fieldbus concept helps improve communication

Grundfos (www.grundfos.com) announced that it has developed a new Communication Interface Unit (CIU) and Communication Interface Module (CIM) which facilitates the connection of Grundfos’ products to standard fieldbus networks. Interoperable and open data bus networks are becoming a significant part of monitoring pump systems. The company said the... [Read more]

Siemens introduces user-friendly key panels with Profinet

Siemens Industry Automation Division (www.siemens.com) has expanded its Key Panels portfolio with a control panel featuring two Profinet interfaces and 32 large, freely-configurable keys with LED backlighting. The Profinet interfaces allow the Simatic HMI KP32F PN Key Panel to be easily integrated into networks without the need for extra hardware components... [Read more]

Anybus Wireless Bridge links Ethernet networks

HMS Industrial Networks (www.hms.se) has introduced theAnybusWirelessBridge, which extends industrial Ethernet networks wirelessly in open air over distances of up to 400 m. This wireless bridge connects industrial devices running EtherNet/IP, Profinet and Modbus TCP through cable-free links. Aside from offering a wireless bridge between two separate... [Read more]

Beckhoff unveils a compact servo technology solution

Beckhoff Automation (www.beckhoff.com) has introduced a compact servo technology solution with the release of the EL7201 servo terminal for the EtherCAT Terminal system. This 12 mm terminal offers a complete servo drive suitable for motors up to 200 W. Its integration into the EtherCAT I/O system effectively reduces costs and cabinet size requirements,... [Read more]

New Anybus Communicator CAN offers enhanced connectivity

HMS Industrial Networks Inc (www.hms.se) has expanded its Anybus Communicator for CAN-enabled devices portfolio, to allow communication between an industrial network and any industrial device with a CAN interface. After the product’s initial release in July, which provided connectivity to five networks, HMS now provides a complete solution for 11... [Read more]

Mitsubishi offers Ethernet/IP connectivity in SD series robots

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. (www.meau.com) made a headline when it unveiled its SD series robots with five degrees to six degrees of freedom. A handy group of machines, the RV-2A and RV-2AJ have been especially designed to help in moving as well as in placing components during production. Featuring various uses, the SD series robots now have... [Read more]

NET Concentrator System acts as single or dual MODBUS master

Moore Industries (www.miinet.com) has unveiled its updated NET Concentrator System® (NCS), which offers users with increased options for communications. The addition of the EMM Interface Module provides the process control as well as the distributed I/O network with dual, independent MODBUS RTU (RS-485) ports and Ethernet (MODBUS/TCP) port as standard. The... [Read more]

Beckhoff unveils latest power monitoring terminal

Beckhoff (www.beckhoff.com) has unveiled its latest power monitoring terminal developed to monitor the condition of a three-phase DC or AC mains network. Suitable for Beckhoff EtherCAT I/O system, the EL3773 power monitoring terminal collects instantaneous values of voltage and power at a remarkably fast sampling rate of up to 10,000 samples per second.... [Read more]

Westermo’s latest Ethernet Switch ensures trouble free industrial communication

Industrial Ethernet switches manufacturer Westermo (www.westermo.com) has unveiled a compact device server switch for connecting telemetry systems and legacy serial control to the latest IP networks. The Lynx DSS replaces low data rate serial communications with higher bandwidth IP networks to preserve investments in the current system, ensure trouble... [Read more]

NAI introduces 12-port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module

North Atlantic Industries (www.naii.com) has unveiled its rugged 12-port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Module that supports 802.1P QoS or DiffServ/ToS priority queues, 16 KB jumbo frames, Port Aggregation, 802.1Q VLAN, Rapid & Multiple Spanning Tree, Spanning Tree, Port Forwarding, NAT, DHCP, DNS and Firewalling. This high performance, extremely low power... [Read more]

What are Motion Control Networks?

Multi-axis motion control typically uses event-based synchronization. This level of synchronization is defined as scheduled, absolute hard delivery of time-critical cyclic data across the network. Delivery variability must be less than 1 µs, which is also known as jitter. While a number of networks exist for “motion control,” it is important to... [Read more]

MTL introduces new Ethernet Connectivity products

MTL Instruments (www.mtl-inst.com) has introduces its latest range of Ethernet Connectivity products that combine rugged reliability with enterprise-class performance. Designed to operate in hazardous and harsh process control environment, the 9200-ET series of Ethernet products feature Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability, multi-port managed and unmanaged... [Read more]

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Announces Support Connect, Remote Asset Management Hosted Service

Vernon Hills, Ill. – Mitsubishi Electric Automation announces the general availability of “Support Connect”, a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) remote connectivity subscription service that enables Mitsubishi Electric Automation customers to better serve their end-users through simple and secure remote-based services. Designed to meet the needs of... [Read more]

Ultra Flexible Silicone Cable for Severe Environments from Cicoil

Valencia, Cal. – Cicoil’s High Flex Unshielded Silicone Cables are designed for applications that require absolute reliability in severe environments. Cicoil’s unique silicone extruded cable is unaffected when exposed to extreme temperatures (-65°C to +260°C), vibration, flames, water, UV light, ozone, radiation and most chemicals. This combination... [Read more]

Siemens’ compact gas analyzer features paramagnetic oxygen measurement

The Automation division of Siemens Industry (www.siemens.com) has unveiled the latest version of the Ultramat 23 gas analyzer that features open interface architectures with Profibus PA/DP, RS 485 based protocols and ELAN supports to simplify process integration. With paramagnetic measuring cell, the analyzer records the concentration of oxygen by combining... [Read more]

RMT Robotics introduces new case and crate picking solutions

RMT Robotics (www.rmtrobotics.com), one of the world’s leading innovators in the manufacturing, engineering and installation of robotic materials handling systems, introduces a case and crate picking solution that reduces the footprint of pick modules, offer complete traceability of products while picking in exact customer sequence. “RMT Robotics... [Read more]

GE’s PACSystems with PROFINET offers flexible deployment

GE Intelligent Platforms (www.ge-ip.com) has unveiled a product that seamlessly combines open standards into a solution that generates significant value in connectivity, reliability and performance. Providing flexible deployment that reduces configuration and hardware issues, the PACSystems with real-time PROFINET also improves application uptime at... [Read more]

Avago’s Ethernet Transceiver to optimize data transmissions over POF

Avago Technologies (www.avagotech.com), one of the leading suppliers of analog interface components for communications, has introduced a Fast Ethernet transceiver that offers reliable data transmissions over POF (plastic optical fibers). Featuring the ability to implement quick communication speeds of up to 100Mbps, the new AFBR-5972Z is ideal for networking... [Read more]

Belden introduces Hirschmann MACH104-16TX-PoEP Switch

Belden Singapore Pte Ltd (www.belden.com) has unveiled the most powerful PoE switch on the market that features 16 TX ports supporting PoE and PoE Plus, and four combo-ports — the Hirschmann MACH104-16TX-PoEP. The MACH104-16TX-PoEP can be integrated into Ethernet/IP and Profinet networks and provide additional features such as configurations and diagnostic... [Read more]

Intrinsically Safe (IS) Ethernet equipment suitable for hazardous areas

MTL Instruments (www.mtl-inst.com) has unveiled a cost-effective Intrinsically Safe (IS) Ethernet device that can be easily installed and maintained in hazardous environments. IS Ethernet equipment’s 9460-ET Series is comprised of IECEx certified components that includes IS Ethernet Switch, IS Copper to Fiber Converter, IS Serial – Ethernet Gateway,... [Read more]

Laird Technologies optimized MMCU-4 Modular Radio Remote Control Receiver

Laird Technologies, Inc. (www.lairdtech.com), a world leader in design and manufacture of customized performance-critical systems and components for advanced wireless and electronics products, has unveiled an optimized member of the CattronControl™ family of remote control systems — the MMCU-4 radio remote control receiver. A configurable modular... [Read more]

JVL unveils an EtherCat module for integrated servo motors

JVL (www.jvlusa.com), a leading company in the field of integrated stepper and servo motors, has unveiled an EtherCat module equipped with M12 connectors as well as internal switch technology with Ethernet IN/OUT — the EtherCAT Industrial Ethernet Module. Specifically developed to meet the demand of the market for a new module that features EtherCAT... [Read more]

WAGO “ETHERNET 2.0” Controller comes with SD Card

Wago Corporation (www.wago.com) has announced that its 750-880 “ETHERNET 2.0” Programmable Fieldbus Controller now features one MB data memory as well as SD port for up to eight GB of additional memory. Aside from increasing the intelligence of industrial Ethernet applications, the 750-880 — which is the third from the “ETHERNET 2.0” platform... [Read more]

New Anybus CompactCom Modbus TCP Module discards external switches

HMS Industrial Networks Inc (www.hms.se) has unveiled Anybus CompactCom’s latest two-port version for Modbus TCP. Offering a fast and easy way to achieve connectivity to Modbus TCP, the new Anybus CompactCom model also provides a way to minimize the demand for expensive external switches. The new module comes with a built-in switch that allows it... [Read more]

NORD Drivesystems unveils new PROFINET technology unit for inverters

After releasing modular units for cabinet-mounted SK 500E inverters during the second quarter of 2011, NORD Drivesystems (www.nord.com), a world leader in the power transmission industry, has announced that it is supplying PROFINET modules for the seamless integration of frequency inverters into PROFINET environments. The new PROFINET modules eliminate... [Read more]

Belden unveils OZD Profi G12 ATEX 1 Device

Belden (www.belden.com) has introduced the Hirschmann OZD Profi G12 ATEX, Profibus FO repeaters, which are certified for use in hazardous environments as well as in zones 1, 2, 21 and 22. With intrinsically safe optical ports and a maximum transfer rate of 12 Mbps, the repeater comes with a plastic or stainless steel housing. Its Ex approved optical... [Read more]

Ethernet Drive and Serial Communications Modules from AutomationDirect

Cumming, Ga. – AutomationDirect’s new GS-EDRV100 Ethernet drive module provides a high-performance Ethernet link between a control system and any GS or DURApulse AC drive.  The module processes signals to and from the drive, mounts on 35mm DIN rail, and connects the drive to an Ethernet hub or PC. It formats drive signals to conform with the Ethernet... [Read more]

Compact Power Hub delivers outstanding power in space-restricted Fieldbus systems

Pepperl+Fuchs (www.pepperl-fuchs.com), one of the largest manufacturers of industrial sensors and sensor system for factory automation applications in the world, has announced the release of a high performance, versatile power supply built for larger process automation projects, the FieldConnex Compact Power Hub. Unlike other comparable power supply... [Read more]

Molex unveils Ethernet switches for complex industrial networks

Molex (www.molex.com), one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect components, has announced the release of a B series of unmanaged and managed Brad Direct-Link Ethernet Switches, which can be utilized across complex industrial networks in a variety of monitoring and control functions. “Our next generation Brad Direct-Link Ethernet... [Read more]

SICK unveils LECTOR 620 code scanner series

SICK UK (www.sick.co.uk) has unveiled its latest code scanner range that offers a vast array of IT integration opportunities including, Ethernet, Serial, PROFIBUS, PROFINET and CAN, the LECTOR 620 code scanner range.This new code scanner is two-thirds smaller than the usual 2D code readers in the market. It offers anti-counterfeiting and traceability... [Read more]

Universal Drive Modules offer advanced machine control

ACS Motion Control (www.acsmotioncontrol.com) has announced the release of SPiiPlus UDMnt, an EtherCAT slave Universal Drive Module that drives directly one or two axes.The Universal Drive Module supports DC brushless, AC servo, closed loop two-phase and five-phase step motors and open loop two-phase and five-phase step motors. Operating as an EtherCAT... [Read more]

Motion over Ethernet provides new level of performance

Rockwell Automation (www.rockwellautomation.com) proudly offers a fully integrated motion solution that operates on similar high-level communications protocol such as those running on other parent automation systems.With the enhancements on its programmable automation controllers (PACs) portfolio, the company now offers Integrated Motion over EtherNet/IP... [Read more]

MooreHawke’s TRUNKSAFE Fault-Tolerant Fieldbus system approved by FF

MooreHawke, a division of Moore International’s (www.miinet.com), proudly announced that its TRUNKSAFE TS Series power conditioner has been certified by the Fieldbus Foundation and is now included in the foundation’s list of registered product.“Because of the revolutionary nature of TRUNKSAFE, obtaining approval and registration is a significant... [Read more]

Emerson’s FIELDVUE digital valve controllers features FDT/DTM system interface

Emerson Process (www.emersonprocess.com) has launched its Fisher FIELDVUE digital valve controllers, which can now be incorporated into any process control system supporting FDT/DTM technology, features HART and FOUNDATION fieldbus communications. The Valvelink DTM software enables users to perform startup, diagnostic and commissioning activities by... [Read more]

Operator Panel with CANopen Interface from Baldor

Fort Smith, Ark. – The new KPD202-501 operator panel from Baldor Electric – a member of the ABB group – is a compact IP65-rated operator panel with a CANopen interface. It provides machine designers and builders with a cost-effective way to  implement simple human-machine interfaces. It is also a scalable control solution – an optional... [Read more]

Eaton’s latest interfaces provide serial and Ethernet connectivity

Eaton (www.eaton.com) has announced the release of its latest line of operator interfaces designed to provide optimum connectivity – the XV and XP Series.The series has been specifically engineered to provide original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) flexibility in communications, applications and design. These new interfaces have been rated for global... [Read more]

Cognex Connect provides ID readers industrial connectivity

Cognex Corporation (www.cognex.com) has announced the release of its Cognex Connect, which provides industrial protocol connectivity for hand held ID readers such as the Cognex DataMan 8000 ID readers, via PROFINET and EtherNet/IP support. Available in In-Sight vision system, Cognex Connect is an extensive collection of communication capabilities that... [Read more]

Pepperl+Fuchs optical data couplers allow live video communication

Pepperl+Fuchs (www.pepperl-fuchs.com) has announced the launch of its LS680 Series Optical Data Couplers, which allow live video communication with its unique capability of transmitting signals, a feature that was previously not possible in material handling applications. Compared to other competitive models in the market, the LS680 provides a cutting-edge... [Read more]

New Speed Connect Quick Release Mechanism from Siemens

Atlanta, Ga. – Siemens Industry, Inc. announces Speed Connect, a new quick release mechanism that protects against vibration shakeout on its Motion-Connect® line of power and signal cables. Motion-Connect cables are offered as standard on all Siemens motion control systems. The Speed Connect release simplifies installation and changeover, even in... [Read more]

Balluff Introduces Analog I/O for IO-Link

Florence, Ky. – Balluff’s line of IO-Link Analog Plugs lets users easily integrate analog I/O at an overall cost savings. By placing the IP67 Analog Plug between the standard analog field device and the Balluff IO-Link Master/Proxy, the plug converts the analog signal to a 14-bit resolution IO-Link signal, eliminating the need for an expensive multi-channel... [Read more]

ABB Drives unveils FECA-01 EtherCAT Adapter

ABB Low Voltage Drives (www.abb.com), the world’s leading producer of electric drives and motors, has proudly announced the launch of the FECA-01 EtherCAT Adapter, which supports CANopen protocol over EtherCAT (CoE) protocol.“Combining this feature-rich industrial fieldbus adapter with the ACS355 and ACS850 drives will make available a great drive... [Read more]

FECA-01 EtherCAT Adapter for ABB Drives

New Berlin, Wis. – ABB Low Voltage Drives announces the release of the FECA-01 EtherCAT® Adapter for the ACS355 and ACS850 drives. The FECA-01 supports CANopen over EtherCAT (CoE) protocol. The flexible plug-in adapter provides fast and simple connectivity to the ABB AC500 PLC (programmable logic controller), and all other major programmable automation... [Read more]

Leuze latest barcode reader integrates ProfiNET

Leuze (www.leuze.com) proudly unveils BCL 548i, the only barcode reader which integrates PROFINET.With the integrated PROFINET interface, the BCL 548i can be connected directly to a control eliminating the usual path through an additional gateway. The integrated PROFINET interface allows users to operate the device easily with the control. The device... [Read more]

Belden unveils new Profibus DP connectors

Belden (www.belden.com) has announced the launch of its new Profibus DP connectors featuring a D-Sub and M12 interface with 180°, 35° or 90° cable outlets. All models support data rates of up to 12 Mbit/s and have compact die-cast zinc housings with active terminating resistor and test socket. They provide quick-connection technology that allows... [Read more]

Wenglor launches Ethernet-enabled sensors for industrial applications

Germany-based sensor expert Wenglor has developed a wide range of sensors with live Ethernet applications for easy integration. Ethernet’s intense bandwidth provides remote alignment of the sensors and speedy communication of data.Wenglor’s prime Ethernet communications include transit time sensors, reflex sensors with background suppression and... [Read more]

Emerson adds Rosemount pressure, temperature transmitters to its Profibus offering

Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com) has added the Rosemount 3051 pressure transmitter and Rosemount 644 temperature transmitter – both offered with PROFIBUS PA profile V3.02,– to its PROFIBUS offering. With its complete offering of Profibus solution, Emerson now makes it easy for customers to have a single protocol for the whole... [Read more]

Phoenix Contact releases FL switch SMN 6TX/2POF-PN

Phoenix Contact (www.phoenixcontact.com) is proud to announce the release of its all-new FL switch SMN 6TX/2POF-PN in addition to six RJ-45-ports. The switch offers two diagnostics-capable POF interfaces within narrow control cabinet-friendly housing. The HCS and polymer fibers can be connected through the fiber-optic interfaces with SCRJ connections.... [Read more]

Cognex Connect supports Ethernet and industrial protocols

Cognex Corporation (www.cognex.com) is proud to announce the release of its all-new  – a comprehensive suite of communication capabilities such as PROFINET and EtherNet/IP. It already comes with the DataMan 200 fixed-mount ID reader series and In-Sight vision systems. The Cognex Connect allows industrial connectivity for DataMan 8000 ID readers from... [Read more]

PROFINET completes Process Automation application profile

PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (www.profibus.com) has reached another milestone for PROFINET, after the completion of the PROFINET for the Process Automation application profile. Thus, PROFINET is now ideally suited for both process and manufacturing automation, said PI.Process automation has strict requirements for availability and reliability.... [Read more]