Posted to News on 7th Dec 2006, 20:27
Triconex launches next generation of I/O and software
Triconex, which is part of Invensys Process Systems, is introducing a new generation of I/O subsystems for its flagship Tricon triple-modular-redundant (TMR) safety and critical control systems. The new family of I/O modules offers higher point density, higher resolution, faster scan rates, an innovative approach for per-point supervision, and user-configurable nominal load limits in the digital output modules. These new features provide increased speed and better accuracy in high-speed critical control applications, while decreasing the cost per I/O point and cost of ownership.
Triconex is also releasing Version 10.2.1 of the Tricon safety instrumented system (SIS) platform. This provides Tricon users with increased levels of flexibility in configuring safe and reliable critical control systems. In addition, TriStation 1131 version 4.1.437 developer's workbench is included within Tricon v10.2.1 to support the configuration of the new family of I/O modules.
In a further development concerning the new high-density line of I/O modules, Triconex has gained TV certification for European Union ATEX standards covering I/O and field terminations in potentially explosive atmospheres. I/O modules and external termination panels for Tricon systems are now available to meet application requirements for non-incendive electrical equipment in hazardous locations such as volatile gas environments.
The new ATEX Triconex I/O module and termination panel certification allows users to comply with non-incendive and thermally limited termination directives without the need for isolation barriers or similar configurations. In addition to providing an ATEX-compliant system that extends from the safety system to the field wiring, the certification provides significant installation and maintenance cost advantages over isolation barriers.
In addition to the new family of I/O Products, Triconex is releasing the Enhanced Diagnostics Monitor v1.1.111, a Windows XP-based software application that provides a more comprehensive view of the health of the Triconex safety systems. This application helps users make better troubleshooting decisions when maintaining their safety systems configurations, thereby minimising the chances of downtime.
Luis Duran, Triconex Brand Director at Invensys Process Systems, comments: "Taken together, these important Triconex developments help users optimise the availability of their production assets by providing new levels of performance, reliability and maintainability of their control infrastructure without compromising the safety of the process."
While being independent and separate, the Tricon TMR safety and critical control systems can be easily integrated with all popular distributed control systems (DCS) as well serve as the safety system platform within an InFusion enterprise control system (ECS).
