Rotary encoder specialist POSITAL has expanded its interface offerings for its magnetic Kit Encoders with support for the nonproprietary open-source BiSS Line communication protocol. This enables the practical implementation of single-cable technology, which is becoming increasingly popular with motor and robot manufacturers. POSITAL’s easy-to-install motor feedback kits, which feature 17-bit electronic resolution, bridge the gap […]
Fieldbuses
CANopen interface on precision magnetic encoders from POSITAL
POSITAL’s IXARC high-precision magnetic absolute rotary encoders are now available with CANopen interfaces. These new interface option is in addition to the previously announced SSI, EtherNet/IP, EtherCat, Powerlink, Profbus DP and Profinet interfaces. Together, this range of interface choices makes the rugged and compact IXARC encoders one of the most versatile devices of its type […]
New networked safe torque off option module helps simplify machine design
Rockwell Automation has introduced a networked safe torque off option module, allowing safety and nonsafety functions to share the same EtherNet/IP network. Designed for the Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 755 and PowerFlex 755T AC drives, this safety option helps protect personnel and equipment by removing rotational power from the motor without removing power from the drive. This functionality […]
EtherCAT Technology Group releases EtherCAT P specification documents
The EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) published a first draft of the official EtherCAT P technology specification last autumn. Now, the documents have been released to coincide with the last ETG Technical Committee Meeting. The specification provides device manufacturers with an official, reliable foundation to implement EtherCAT P technology, which enables data and power transmission on […]
ETG at Hannover demonstrates how EtherCAT supports Industrie 4.0 and IoT developments
There is nothing new about the suitability of EtherCAT when enabling the concepts of Industrie 4.0. The technology has, by design, all the tools necessary to support the digital transformation. As the world’s largest fieldbus user organization, the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) strives to be actively involved in the developments surrounding Industrie 4.0 and IoT. […]
HMI with CODESYS 3 PLC and visualization (from Turck)
Turck now offers an HMI with CODESYS 3 PLC — the TX500 HMI PLC. With high-end touch displays and fast processors, these HMIs are ideal for use in small- to medium-size machines whose processes have to be controlled, displayed and operated locally. Each TX500 is equipped with a Profinet master and EtherNet/IP scanner, as well as […]
CC-Link Partner Association Announces ASCO CC-Link IE Field Certification
Continuing to strengthen CC-Link’s position as a leading global open automation network technology, the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA) announced today that ASCO has received CC-Link IE Field Network Certification for their Numatics valve manifold with G3 Fieldbus Electronics. ASCO introduces its CC-Link IE Field certified Numatics valve manifold with G3 Fieldbus Electronics with integrated scalable […]
Molex Introduces SST Universal Modbus Modules for CompactLogix Controllers
Molex, LLC has introduced two new seamlessly integrated Modbus modules for Rockwell Automation CompactLogix controllers. The two Universal Modbus modules connect CompactLogix controllers to any Modbus/TCP or Modbus serial networks from the same module, even at the same time. “Molex is focused on putting best-in-class industrial solutions in the hands of our customers,” said Ken Prentice, […]
A brief introduction to common bus and line regeneration
by Steven Peterson, Product Training Engineer, Yaskawa America Deciding which setup is right for a common bus takes research and evaluation, but selecting and implementing the right one significantly improves design performance and efficiency. Here we’ll outline how to prioritize features while accommodating a given design’s potential amount of regenerative energy and harmonic content. Designers […]
OPC UA Companion Specification for Sercos released
Sercos International, supplier of the Sercos® automation bus, announced that the OPC Unified Architecture (UA) Companion Specification for Sercos has been released. This specification describes the mapping of the Sercos information model to OPC UA so that functions and data of Sercos devices are made available and accessible via OPC UA. This initiative aims at […]










