GuardLink 2.0 is an advanced serially connected safety input solution designed to reduce downtime and installation costs. GuardLink 2.0 offers advanced diagnostics by way of the new Allen-Bradley 432ES GuardLink EtherNet/IP On-Machine Interface or a combination of the Dual GuardLink Relay and EtherNet/IP Interface. GuardLink 2.0 protocol also enables safety-rated control device status reporting and […]
Allen Bradley of Rockwell
Improved controllers, design software simplify smart machine development
Machine builders can save engineering time and costs with the enhanced Allen-Bradley Micro850 and Micro870 2080-Lx0E controllers using the latest Connected Components Workbench software from Rockwell Automation. The improved 2080-Lx0E controllers offer greater connectivity and design efficiency through the new Class 1 implicit messaging capability with up to eight EtherNet/IP devices support. The 2080-Lx0E controllers […]
New I/O modules from Rockwell aid smart machines in harsh environments
Manufacturers can now realize the design and productivity benefits of On-Machine I/O modules on smart machines used in harsh applications. The new Allen-Bradley ArmorBlock I/O modules can operate in a wide range of temperatures and offer up to IP69K protection in applications like automotive, material handling, packaging and welding. The new ArmorBlock I/O options can […]
Allen-Bradley motor controller adds integrated safety
Manufacturers can now install more of their control hardware on machines instead of in cabinets to simplify their production environments. The new Allen-Bradley ArmorStart ST distributed motor controllers with integrated safety can be mounted directly on a machine, allowing users to implement functional safety with fewer components. The ArmorStart ST with integrated safety is the […]
New Add On Instructions for Allen Bradley software from Applied Motion Products
Applied Motion Products has released new Add On Instructions (AOI) for Rockwell Automation’s RSLogix 5000 software to better control industrial devices and motion control components over EtherNet/IP networks. The new Add On Instructions increase the capabilities of Applied Motion Products’ drives and integrated motors within the RSLogix 5000 environment, supporting a faster and easier integration […]
New power ranges and motor control capabilities for PowerFlex 6000 Drives
Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 6000 medium-voltage AC drives from Rockwell Automation offer expanded, user-friendly control for variable and constant torque applications. The latest release delivers a wider voltage range (2.4 to 11 kV) and provides 100 percent starting torque, leveraging sensorless vector control. The PowerFlex 6000 drive is easy to commission, use and maintain, with standard faceplates […]
FAQ: What’s the learning curve for programming a PLC?
The answer is… it depends. For starters, it depends on one’s level of programming experience. Either past PLC programming or computer programming in general, as well as the types of programming environments (visual or textual, for instance) one is used to. Someone with a good bit of programming experience will probably find the process easier […]
PLC versus safety PLC
All PLCs (programmable logic controllers) do essentially the same thing; control some machine process. Typical PLC functions include timing, control, and sequencing of such actions as turning motors, pumps or valves on or off. A safety PLC, on the other hand, is a dedicated controller specifically built and certified to meet safety requirements, such as […]
FAQ: Is a PLC fast enough to meet my application’s requirements?
Knowing if your PLC is fast enough and can handle your application is really a two-part process. That is, it can be looked at from two different but intertwined perspectives; one is from the PLC perspective and the other is from the application level. The most important factors are knowing the specifics of the application […]
What is your cost for unplanned electric motor downtime?
by Bill Martin, Product Manager, Electronic Overload Relays, Rockwell Automation Electric motors, if not properly protected, can cause damage if overloaded. A variety of motor protection devices are available for varying applications to prevent this.. Electric motors are the backbone to today’s modern industry. They provide the mechanical energy needed for most manufacturing processes—but they […]
