New IDEC MicroSmart FC6A micro PLC is IoT-ready

This range of modules means that as many as 520 I/O can be provided. While the new FC6A might be small in size, it still offers impressive performance: with a maximum instruction set capacity of 640kbyte (equivalent to some 80,000 steps) the FC6A is capable of executing complex machine control programs. And with a basic instruction processing time of just 42ns, users can be confident of a truly fast response from this micro PLC for the control of highly dynamic, synchronous machine functions such as precision multi-stage positioning, involving zero return, current and absolute value management, and JOG operation.

A Mini-B USB port is provided on all CPU platforms, allowing user programs to be downloaded or uploaded without having to supply power to the CPU module. A Secure Digital (SD) card port is also available with each CPU option, providing additional memory capacity for program storage and data logging. All models are equipped with a standard (RJ45) Ethernet port for remote monitoring and for serving a wide range of applications using Modbus communications.

In common with all IDEC micro controller platforms, the new FC6A MicroSmart can be programmed via the company's WindLDR ladder logic software, an icon-driven programming tool combining logic and intuition with an easy-to-use interface that enables the user to take full advantage of MicroSmart features. A built-in simulation mode enables the functionality of a ladder program to be tested and verified before it is downloaded to the PLC. WindLDR also provides a status monitor function for communications, as well as monitoring for errors or failures in the CPU and I/O expansion modules.

IoT-ready micro PLC

Internet of Things (IoT) capability is provided by custom web pages that are easily configured for remote monitoring and control. The web pages are created using a simple and intuitive drag-and-drop method that requires no specialised HTML programming knowledge, and are stored in the MicroSmart FC6A PLC HMI module. This innovative integrated web server feature is said to place the new FC6A well ahead of competing micro PLC platforms for ease of IoT-type systems implementation.

In order to get users up and running quickly, the FC6A HMI module comes ready embedded with four basic system monitor web pages: PLC Status, Batch Monitor, Custom Monitor and LCD Monitor. However, users can also design and create custom web screens using WindLDR's HTML editor and Java Script; WindDLR's built-in symbol library provides more than 7000 symbols and these can be imported to create cutting-edge, graphically rich screens. Moreover, small video files can also be imported to add an extra layer of process or machine operations visibility.

When connected to the internet via its Ethernet port, the FC6A HMI & Communication Adapter module functions as a web server, enabling the stored web pages to be accessed via any web browser running on any internet-connected device such as a remote PC, tablet or smartphone.

Connecting the HMI Ethernet port to the Internet also provides email and text notification functionality, which can be used with third-party email servers such as Gmail and Yahoo to warn maintenance or operational personnel of issues relating to the function of remotely located equipment.

Follow the link for more information about the new MicroSmart FC6A micro PLC, which is available in the UK and Ireland through Sys-Tek.