Posted to News on 16th Mar 2015, 16:52
UniStream all-in-one PLC + HMI with EtherNet/IP connectivity
Unitronics' award-winning UniStream PLC + HMI all-in-one controller now supports the ODVA's EtherNet/IP Industrial Ethernet standard. UniStream successfully passed the ODVA conformance test and has been certified as compliant with the standard and interoperable with other EtherNet/IP devices.
UniStream can function simultaneously as both an EtherNet/IP I/O Scanner and Adapter, exchanging I/O data via its two Ethernet ports with other EtherNet/IP compliant devices. In addition, a single controller can contain multiple scanner and adapter definitions.
Combining UniStream and the EtherNet/IP protocol facilitates high-performance efficient I/O data exchange in real time, resulting in much faster process control and benefiting other industrial automation applications. Via EtherNet/IP, a UniStream controller can directly read the inputs and control the outputs of I/O blocks and compatible EtherNet/IP devices from other vendors. It is therefore now easier to integrate the UniStream in plantwide networks and motion control applications.
No special software add-on or gateway is needed; UniLogic, the all-in-one programming environment for UniStream that is provided free of charge, is used for configuring the EtherNet I/P communications. A simple, quick configuration task enables machine builders and automation control programmers to easily integrate EtherNet/IP communication into their projects. The user enters EtherNet/IP parameters and assembly instances into an intuitive EtherNet/IP grid - no Ladder programming is required.
Simple connectivity
The benefits of EtherNet/IP are driving its worldwide popularity. It is easier and less complicated to implement than many fieldbus protocols, which commonly require specialised training and knowledge. EtherNet/IP can provide a simpler option for many automation professionals who may not have an intensive fieldbus background.
Another benefit is the fact that it runs over standard, universally available Ethernet and IP networking equipment and protocols. An additional advantage of EtherNet/IP is that it supports wireless transmission using industry-standard devices.
The simplicity of UniLogic, together with the EtherNet/IP, is described by Unitronics as a winning combination for the new generation of engineers and automation control personnel that may be less familiar with traditional ladder programming and fieldbus technologies.
UniLogic also offers embedded diagnostic tools, providing statistics about the EtherNet/IP communications that can aid in troubleshooting and optimising the application.
Using EtherNet/IP for both data and information communications boosts potential Internet of Things (IoT) applications that involve the UniStream all-in-one controllers. By supporting a variety of I/O interfaces and other fieldbus protocols, a UniStream controller can act as an EtherNet/IP gateway when connecting to other industrial automation devices, allowing EtherNet/IP automation control systems to connect with other unconnected devices.
Follow the link for more information about the UniStream PLC + HMI all-in-one controller and the new EtherNet/IP communications capability.
