Posted to News on 24th Apr 2007, 18:47
Ethernet/IP module for programmable automation controllers
Elau is introducing a new option module that gives its Pacdrive C600 and P600 automation controllers Ethernet/IP master (network scanner) capability, enabling Ethernet/IP I/O to be interfaced directly to these controllers.
The latest Ethernet/IP scanner module, the OM-NE, allows Pacdrive C600 and P600 controllers to serve as masters on Ethernet/IP networks, to control I/O devices, connect HMIs, communicate with management systems, and communicate between machine controls on, for example, packaging lines.
Pacdrive automation controllers provide both motion and logic functions, thereby eliminating the need for conventional separate PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and PACs (programmable automation controllers). The self-contained hardware module is based on Hilscher's netX communication processor and complements a software Ethernet/IP slave already available for all the Pacdrive automation controllers. The new master allows up to 64 slaves to be connected.
The plug-in module occupies one of the two expansion slots on the C600 and P600 automation controllers. A configuration tool implemented in Elau's EPAS-4 software development toolkit enables the software to be integrated, making an Ethernet/IP master a quick and easy upgrade.
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