Power monitoring systems built on I/O and programmable HMIs

Paul Hurst, MD of P4A, comments: "This agreement with WAGO takes our power monitoring systems to a new level, providing unprecedented levels of flexibility for the building services integrator. The I/O system we are using, the 750 Series, is well proven in building services applications and is recognised as the most compact, modular and fieldbus-independent I/O system for decentralised automation.

"Using the 750 system means that our power monitoring systems will be easy to expand as user demand grows; they will be able to interface to anything: lighting systems, HVAC, et al - and also be future-proof, as the WAGO system - with its fieldbus-independent design - has an open protocol."

P4A will be interfacing the 750 Series I/O to its Monitouch range of flat panel, programmable HMIs. Offering SCADA-like performance at HMI prices, the Monitouch range is capable of interfacing to a wide range of external devices, providing multiple screens depicting all aspects of power monitoring, and data logging in CSV format.

The combination of the WAGO I/O and the Monitouch HMI provides low-cost, highly flexible power monitoring systems that can be easily implemented to provide centralised monitoring of all types of energy-intensive operations in industry and commerce, to determine areas where savings can be achieved.

Described as easy to install and operate, the power monitoring system can be employed to identify quickly the 15 to 20 per cent annual energy savings, which, according to energy industry estimates, are available simply by reducing the costs of lighting, HVAC and the operation of plant and machinery. Achieving these savings will ensure that the P4A system quickly pays for itself.