HMS Networks expands its range of Anybus gateways

HMS Networks has expanded its second-generation Anybus Communicator range of high-performance gateways, enabling more and faster data to be transferred across networks in industrial applications.

Thirteen new versions for data connectivity between EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profibus, and Profinet make it simple for users to connect between different control systems, remove automation islands and maximise operational performance.

The award-winning Anybus NP40 industrial network processor ensures that the Communicators meet demanding requirements in terms of industrial performance, reliability, and security. Featuring new hardware and software, the gateways enable instant data transfer – up to 10 times faster than their predecessors. Users can also exchange significantly more data between the networks as the gateways transfer up to 1 500 bytes to and from connected PLCs.

Built using carefully selected industrial components and verified against the CE and UL industry standards, the gateways are designed to handle harsh industrial environments.

To protect users from cyberattacks, the gateways have an onboard physical security switch that prevents unauthorised configuration changes and secure boot functionality to resist attacks and infections from malware.

Fast installation and configuration procedures are guaranteed thanks to an optimised housing design, an intuitive GUI, and easy-to-understand documentation.

Installation is simplified thanks to the compact gateway design with forward-facing ports and DIN-rail mounting, which enables gateway installation close to connected devices, reducing the amount of needed wiring.

Users can configure the gateways using drag-and-drop functionality in the web-based GUI, which is accessible via a dedicated Ethernet port on the gateways. In the GUI, users can also monitor network traffic and diagnose issues before they become problems.

Hands-on assistance is also available, as a QR code in the GUI provides a step-by-step installation and configuration guide.

“We are very excited to release these Communicators, our most advanced range of gateways,” explains Fredrik Brynolf, product manager for Anybus gateways at HMS Networks. “The Communicators are reliable, powerful, and secure. On top of this, they offer a new level of user-friendliness thanks to the optimised design and the intuitive GUI. All this makes the Communicators excellent choices for anyone looking to connect data between industrial networks. The Communicators make it simple to connect PLCs, remove automation islands, and maximise operational performance.”

Anybus Communicators are available off the shelf as stand-alone ready-to-install units. Users can personalize the Communicators to meet OEM and brand labelling requirements. The gateways can also be pre-configured and locked to be used as tightly integrated communication components of an automation device or a machine.