Friday, September 30, 2011

Phoenix Contact UTME 4 Test Disconnect Terminal Blocks



Phoenix Contact introduces UTME 4 test disconnect terminal blocks with pluggable COMBI connectors, the latest addition to the ICT-Cabinet line of DIN rail products. These new terminal blocks complement the UTME 6 series, released in 2009. Available with reliable UT screw clamp connection technology, the UTME 4 provides convenient and configurable current transformer (CT) test and measurement functionality in a compact 4 mm2 profile.

The UTME 4 combines test and measurement disconnects with pluggable COMBI connectors for increased safety and assembly time savings. Its innovative short-circuit plugs for CT shorting allow “make first, break last” operation.

A screw-free knife disconnect lever provides visual indication of the position of the switch. Each block also has bridging channels on either side of the disconnect lever. The pluggable shorting component locks into a bridging channel. The bridging channels also accommodate push-in FBS bridges and can be accessed to install test sockets.

Current ratings on UTME 4 series terminal blocks include:
  • UL 300/600 V, 25/5 A, AWG # 26-10
  • IEC 500 V, 28 A, AWG # 24-10


SMC Pneumatics MPC Multiposition Cylinder



Need an actuator that offers an infinite number of adjustable stroke positions for under $500? Previously, an electric actuator was your only option. Now SMC Pneumatics offers a pneumatic and lower cost alternative in their new MPC Series. The MPC (Multi Position Cylinder) uses a 4~20mA or 0~10VDC input signal to automatically adjust the actuator stroke. Once the MPC reaches the desired position, it is pneumatically locked until the input signal is changed.

How does the MPC do this? The MPC is a Cylinder + Solenoid Valve + Linear Sensor + Controller all in one unit. You need only to supply air and the appropriate input signal. This easy adjustment makes the MPC perfect for on the fly changes to your process.


SMC Pneumatics MPC Multiposition Cylinder

SMC Pneumatics Technical Datasheets

SMC Pneumatics MGP Compact Guide Cylinder



SMC Pneumatics has re-designed their MGP Series of Compact Guide Cylinders, reducing its weight by up to 17 percent.  A thinner plate and a shorter guide rod not only decreases the weight of the unit, but also reduces the space required between the bottom of the cylinder body and your equipment.  Despite the reduced weight, the new MGP series provides the same performance, strength (rigidity) and mounting dimensions of the previous MGP series.

MGP cylinders are available with three types of bearings:
  • Slide bearing (MGPM) - Suitable for lateral load applications such as a stopper where shock is applied.
  • Ball bushing (MGPL) - Smooth operation suitable for pusher and lifter.
  • High precision ball bushing (MGPA) - Suitable for minimizing plate displacement.
Mounting can be accomplished from the top, side, bottom or from the t-slot, and piping is possible from either the top or the side.  Round type and magnetic field resistant auto switches can be mounted directly onto the cylinder without the need for a spacer.


SMC Pneumatics MGP Compact Guide Cylinder

SMC Pneumatics Technical Datasheets

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Phoenix Contact QUINT UPS-IQ Battery Management



Gain the ability to visually check the status of your batteries with the QUINT UPS-IQ from Phoenix Contact. Previously, UPS solutions for industrial control cabinets were basic units that performed a battery back-up function in the event of a main line power loss. However, these units could not provide an indication of the connected battery’s condition.


The QUINT UPS-IQ is ideal for any situation where battery backup is needed and mission-critical systems cannot lose power. IQ-Technology makes QUINT unique by providing an adaptive battery management on several levels: State of Charge (SOC), State of Health (SOH), and State of Function (SOF).


Features and Benefits

  • Narrow package design provides a reduced footprint
  • Easy handling of the batteries through Serial ID Number and easy removal of battery cores without tools
  • Power Boost for increased system capacity of up to 1.5 times the nominal current
  • SFB functionality providing up to six-times the nominal current for 12 milliseconds
  • Fast charging for faster recovery of the battery module
  • Decoupled UPS input protects from a short circuit upstream from the UPS
  • Cutback of the charging current in the event of a power supply overload
  • Can be used with or without the UPS-Config software, providing easy implementation
  • Auto recognition of the external battery module means no need to manually select the battery size for charging currents
  • Communication interface with USB enables monitoring and configuration by PC or 24 V industrial PCs
  • Configuration stick provides the ability to transfer programming configurations from one UPS to another for quick deployment of multiple systems


Phoenix Contact MARKING BOX Printing System



The MARKING BOX is the newest addition to Phoenix Contact's THERMOMARK LINE printing systems – a low-cost printing solution that is ideal for smaller customers with a variety of marking needs.


This total printing system consists of:
  • THERMOMARK CARD printer for printing on rigid materials, such as snap-in terminal block markers
  • THERMOMARK ROLL printer for printing all roll material, such as shrink sleeves and wire wraps
  • A laptop with preloaded software and print drivers
  • All necessary cables and ink ribbons
The MARKING BOX system allows the user to print a wide range of labels and markers for all products in and around the industrial control cabinet. The comprehensive materials line for the printers includes polycarbonite cards and PVC sheets.


One major advantage of the MARKING BOX is the laptop computer, which is included and pre-loaded with print drivers as well as Phoenix Contact’s CLIP PROJECT software. In the past, software had to be downloaded from a website – usually a long process with such large files. MARKING BOX eliminates those issues entirely - simply open MARKING BOX, plug in the necessary cables and begin printing.


Features and Benefits


  • Complete system – mark terminal blocks, wires and equipment
  • Ready to print right out of the box – no need to download or install software or drivers
  • Easy-to-use CLIP PROJECT software for designing and printing markers and labels
  • Versatile process - easy to switch from one media type to another
  • Save money by using continuous materials such as Endless Shrink Sleeves


Friday, September 23, 2011

Phoenix Contact Sensor/Actuator Cables for DeviceNet



Phoenix Contact is expanding its offering of drop and trunk DeviceNet cables. The new cordsets utilize industry standard M12 and MINI 7/8-inch threaded connectors. In a typical field cabling application, both power and communication lines are combined in one cable, saving space and installation time. When a new device is added to the network, a drop cable is simply plugged into a “Tee” on the trunk line and this allows for a fast field connection.


Phoenix Contact Sensor/Actuator Cables for DeviceNet

Phoenix Contact Technical Datasheets

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Schneider Electric Product Configurators for iPad


Schneider Electric has produced five free product configurators apps for use with Apple's iPad. The visual product configurators enable users to easily select push buttons, selector switches, pilot lights, relays, tower lights, and their accessories. Once a product and its mating accessories have been selected, you can add additional products to the same bill of material and email it once completed.



Banner Engineering iVu Software Update



The iVu 2011R1 software update from Banner Engineering introduces EtherNet/IP and Modbus/TCP communication protocols to simplify communications to some of the most commonly used industrial controllers in factory automation.  
Adding these industrial protocols to the Ethernet enabled iVu Plus TG and iVu Plus BCR sensors provides simple and robust communication channels to control and monitor iVu Plus sensors over Ethernet from any controller that supports EtherNet/IP, Modbus/TCP, PCCC, or TCP/IP.
For example, by communicating over EtherNet/IP or Modbus/TCP, a PLC or HMI can remotely issue a product change, update the barcode compare string, or trigger an iVu Plus sensor. Similarly, an HMI could display inspections results and images for operators to view, or a PLC could make informed production decisions based upon inspection results provided by the iVu Plus sensor.


Download Banner Engineering iVu Software

Banner Engineering Technical Datasheets

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Pepperl+Fuchs PosiTrack PCV Data Matrix Positioning System


Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the PosiTrack PCV Data Matrix Positioning System. This 2-D, camera-based position feedback system uses data matrix technology to solve numerous linear feedback applications common to automated storage and retrieval systems, overhead monorails, lifts and rotary turntables. The PosiTrack PCV system is capable of fast read speeds to 41ft/s, and the high data density of the 2-D code square allows continuous reading over distances up to six miles.

“The use of data matrix codes in industrial environments is increasingly commonplace. Their small size, large data capacity and excellent readability, even when large segments of the symbol have been lost or destroyed, provide secure and reliable performance in the areas of production, identification, inventory, and sorting and handling to name just a few,” says Marcel Ulrich, Product Manager.

To date, data matrix codes have predominantly been utilized for read-and-react, single-step processes. For example, verifying that a pallet passed a specific production point, or that a code-stamped package has been shipped. Pepperl+Fuchs’ expertise in 2-D camera technology recently expanded the scope of data matrix applications from incremental processes to continuous tracking and positioning.

“The new PosiTrack PCV system provides a powerful X-Y position feedback tool for automated storage and retrieval machinery, while the technology’s ability to follow curved paths makes it ideally suited for monitoring and controlling overhead monorails. RS-485 and SSI control outputs insure compatibility with many common industrial PLCs and motor drives,” explains Ulrich.

Thin strips of adhesive-backed data matrix codes placed along a carrier’s travel path continuously update its movement with +/- 0.1mm resolution. Unlike rotary encoders whose position feedback principle is contact-based, the PosiTrack PCV’s “touch-free” optic technology means years of wear-free, low maintenance operation. If a code strip does become damaged, Pepperl+Fuchs offers on-line, web-based software tools that allow a user to quickly generate and print replacement code sections.

Scanner-to-code band separation up to 80mm is typical. A +/- 15mm axial movement tolerance means the random alignment variances that are common with carrier/track installations have no affect on the PosiTrack PCV system’s stability.

Pepperl+Fuchs is a world leader in the design, manufacture and application of high quality factory and process automation products and services. Pepperl+Fuchs pioneered the development of proximity sensors 50 years ago, and has set the standard for innovation and quality ever since.

Pepperl+Fuchs, 1600 Enterprise Parkway, Twinsburg, OH 44087; (330) 486-0001; fax: (330) 405-4710; fa-info@us.pepperl-fuchs.com; www.pepperl-fuchs.us.


Pepperl+Fuchs PosiTrack PCV Data Matrix Positioning System

Pepperl+Fuchs Technical Datasheets