Showing posts with label PLC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label PLC. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

IDEC FT1A Touch 14 I/O HMI+PLC Unit


IDEC announces a new model in its FT1A Touch micro programmable controller series of combo HMI+PLC units, the FT1A Touch 14 I/O. New features make the FT1A Touch 14 I/O suitable for advanced analog monitoring and control, allowing users to economically perform both operator interface and control for a much wider range of applications.

Many small scale applications such as simple machines could benefit by using a programmable graphical interface along with a discrete and analog controller and I/O, but don’t have the panel space or the budget for separate components. The FT1A Touch 14 I/O addresses this need by combining operator interface and control in a single compact package, all programmable with IDEC’s PC-based software.

The FT1A Touch 14 I/O provides up to 158 discrete and analog inputs and outputs (using FT1A controllers as Remote I/O slaves), PID control, Ethernet communications and a built-in 3.8-inch touchscreen HMI in a compact package costing less than $500. These features make it a good fit for applications requiring a graphical user interface along with discrete and analog control at an affordable price.

Responding to market demand, the following features were added to the updated FT1A Touch 14 I/O from the existing FT1A Touch:
  • The two-point built-in analog inputs now accept 4-20mA in addition to 0-10VDC
  • Two built-in analog outputs were added, each configurable as 0-10VDC or 4-20mA
  • Can now expand up to two additional analog two-point I/O modules
  • RTD/Thermocouple analog input module available
  • PID control
  • Can be configured as Remote I/O Master, allowing additional FT1As to be used as Remote I/O Slaves for additional discrete I/O
The device has 14 I/O consisting of eight discrete inputs of which two can be configured as analog, four discrete outputs and two analog outputs. The discrete inputs can handle switching frequencies up to 10KHz. The analog inputs and outputs can be configured as either 0-10Vdc or 4-20mA.

Two analog expansion adapters can be added, each with either two inputs or two outputs. Remote I/O capability allows up to three FT1A controllers to be configured as remote I/O slaves with 24, 40 or 48 I/O, for a maximum of 158 I/O on a single control system.

PID control functions include auto-tuning, anti-reset windup and bumpless transfer. Programming of the control functions is accomplished via IDEC’s WindLDR, and the HMI is programmed using IDEC’s WindO/I-NV3 software. The WindLDR software allows users to simulate ladder and function block programs to test software without requiring connection of hardware.

Communications includes RS232C and RS485 ports for serial networking; an RJ45 Ethernet port for remote Ethernet and Modbus TCP communications; and a USB port for entering recipe data, performing program updates and data logging.

Critical data can be logged to a USB memory stick and then retrieved by removing the USB stick, or by accessing the data stored on the USB stick via Ethernet. Project files can be transferred between a USB memory stick and the FT1A Touch14 I/O. The USB port is a quick and convenient way for an OEM to program multiple units, and for users to quickly update ladder and HMI programs.

The built-in Ethernet ports allow the FT1A Touch 14 I/O to be configured as a Client (Master) or Server (Slave) on the Modbus network. Modbus RTU (Master or Slave) is also supported. With these capabilities, the FT1A can communicate with other PLCs or devices using the Modbus protocol. It also contains native drivers for communication with PLCs from a wide range of manufacturers using various protocols.

With 47.4KB of logic control programming memory, complex PLC programs can be constructed without undue restriction. And with 5MB of configuration memory for the display, a full-featured display interface can be easily configured.


The new FT1A Touch 14 I/O is CE, cULus, Class I Division 2 for hazardous locations, and has a -20 to 55°C operating temperature. 


IDEC FT1A Touch HMI+PLC Unit

IDEC Technical Datasheets

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Phoenix Contact ILC 170 ETH 2TX Programmable Controller

Phoenix Contact has added the new ILC 170 ETH 2TX to the recently launched PC WorX programmable ILC 100 series. The ILC 170 features two Ethernet ports with a built-in Ethernet switch, eliminating the need for a separate Ethernet switch in certain applications. This makes it easy to daisychain multiple ILC 170 controllers. Unique to the ILC 170 is an optional removable SD card memory, which provides easy program transfer between ILC 170 controllers. The ILC 170 features a large onboard data and program memory (512 KB) and retentive memory (48 KB). 

The ILC 170 has eight digital inputs and four digital outputs (500 mA) integrated on-board. The I/O can be easily expanded directly by adding Inline I/O modules. Additional features include an integrated realtime clock, PLC switch and support of up to four local remote bus branch modules.

The ILC 1xx series controllers are programmed with PC WorX Express, which is part of the
AUTOMATIONWORX Software Suite 2008 (v 1.40). PC WorX Express is free of charge and supports up to 4,096 I/O points. PC WorX Express supports the new AX OPC Server for applications that require data exchange to any OPC client software packages or the upcoming new Phoenix Contact OT/TP series HMI operator panels. The controllers also support the Modbus TCP protocol via special client and server libraries in PC WorX for data exchange to any Modbus TCP-capable device.



Wednesday, October 22, 2008

New Products from Omron

NP Series HMI Focuses on OEM Machine Builders

The new NP-Series of HMI (Human Machine Interface) products have been designed with the OEM machine builder in mind. They provide the right set of features and functions that OEM’s value and are competitively priced against other vendors of OEM-focused HMI’s. Machine builders can choose from NP-Series models with 3 or 6 function keys with 3.8” monochrome, 5.7” monochrome or 5.7” color displays.

By introducing this line of HMI’s Omron can now offer two classes of HMI.

  • The traditional NS-Series of terminals that keeps getting richer with features and functions. Watch for an upcoming announcement about the NS-Series and an even greater set of functions.
  • New NP-Series of HMI’s that offers basic essential HMI functions at a truly affordable price.
Improved Connectivity Advantages

Omron also offers a perfectly matched series of PLC’s that the NP complements perfectly. The CP1L and CP1H series of PLC’s are the perfect PLC for small to medium size machines. The pricing of the NP is more in line with the pricing of the CP1 PLC’s thus allowing customers to buy more of their control solution from a single vendor. When the PLC and HMI come from the same manufacturer customers also realize improved connectivity.

With Omron’s NP, customers can connect directly to Omron Temperature Controllers without a PLC in between. Additionally, there are pre-designed screens available that allow customers to connect, monitor, and control the Temperature Controllers. Customers can be up and running in minutes instead of hours or even days.

When connecting to an Omron PLC, customers can use Programming Console function to view ladder, change set-points, and even modify ladder from the NP HMI terminal. This helps customers to make necessary changes to ladder without connecting a laptop.

Key Features and Benefits
  • Replaceable battery - Provides longer service life
  • USB Slave and Host - Allows upload and download of applications and connection of devices
  • RS-232 and RS-422/485 serial ports - Communicate with two different PLC’s at once on separate networks. Use the RS-422 to communicate further distances.
  • Multi-Vendor PLC Communications - Connect to A-B, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Keyence, Modbus, GE, Modicon, LG and more.
  • Multi-language support - Switch between languages within an application and support multi-language workforces both domestically and abroad.
  • EJ1 & E5xN Temp Controllers direct connection - Pre-made screens that make connecting to Temp controllers a snap. No PLC needed in between the NP and the EJ.
  • Programming Console for editing PLC ladder logic - No need to connect a laptop to the PLC to monitor or change rungs of ladder logic.


CJ2 PLC Offers Built-In Ethernet/IP and Tag Based Programming
New CJ2 CPU’s offer built-in Ethernet/IP networking, and high-speed, high-capacity data exchange between PLC’s, HMI’s and I/O devices. Ethernet/IP can be used to perform both information (explicit messaging) and control (implicit messaging) networking, sharing up to
184,832 words over 256 nodes. CJ2 PLC’s can easily connect to Rockwell’s ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLC’s using Ethernet/IP tag data links.

Key Features and Benefits
  • Large Memory Capacity – The CPU program memory capacity has been increased up to 400K Steps, DM has increased up to 800K while Function Block Program, Symbol, Comment Memory has increased to 3.5MB. Large memory allows for larger more versatile programs. Well-documented programs make it easier and faster to troubleshoot.
  • Fast - Processing times are significantly faster. Faster production, faster development time, faster time to market and higher throughput means higher speed applications can be achieved.
  • IEC 61131-3 Programming – All 5 programming languages are supported with the CJ2 PLC. Ladder, Function Block, Structured Text, Instruction List and Sequential Function Chart. Hundreds of pre-built pre-tested Function Blocks significantly reduce design time. Standard programming languages allow for fast, flexible and powerful programming.
  • Easy Connection with USB or Ethernet - CX-One software applications can be easily connected using standard USB and Ethernet cables via USB and EtherNet/IP ports.
  • Tag Based Programming - CJ2 CPU Units have a tag name server to manage tag names and I/O addresses. This enables access from external devices using tag names, without needing to know the I/O addresses. The Common Tag Database between the PLC and HMI requires less design time, as HMI screen data and PLC programming can be developed in parallel, reducing development time.
  • One Single Programming Environment – CX-One is Omron’s single programming environment for PLC’s, HMI, Networks, Process Control, Motion Control and Simulation software. All existing CJ1 programs convert directly over to the CJ2 with the use of CX-One version 3. Legacy PLC’s are supported and single click conversion to new hardware makes for easy migration.
  • Improved Debugging - Online editing and data tracing have been improved, greatly increasing the efficiency of debugging. The data trace function is built into the PLC and can monitor and store I/O and data in 1 ms time increments. This allows for easy and faster debug time, which allows for faster time to market.
  • Fully Compatible with CJ1 Modules – Available modules include motion control, process control, RFID, Logic and networking, all usable on the same controller platform. All existing CJ1 modules are compatible with the new CJ2 family.


New Expansion Units for CP1L PLC Family


Complete with a standard-feature USB port, CP1L CPU Units are available for applications with as few as 10 I/O points. Whether you need simple sequence control or pulse I/O and a serial port, the CP1L PLCs give you an economical choice from among 10-, 14-, 20-, 30-, 40-, and 60-point CPU Units.

Key Features and Benefits
  • Smart integration – All-in-one functionality includes high-speed counters, analog, motion and communications.
  • Quick modifications – PLC programs with online editing allows you to make changes quickly.
  • Maximize efficiency – Select the optimum CPU for your application: 10, 14, 20, 30, 40 or 60 I/O built-in.
  • Easily expandable – Expand CP1 to 320 I/O points using CP1W expansion I/O.
  • Save cabinet space – Compact size measures from just 90 H x 66 W x 85 D mm.
  • Solve complex programming issues – Built-in floating-point and trigonometric functions.
  • Function Blocks, Structured Text - Using the IEC61131-3 programming allow for easy software development that are standard in the industry and are included at no additional cost.
  • Save time - By having program comments and symbols stored locally in the PLC. Programs and documentation always stay up to date.
  • Simplified configuration – All Omron devices connected to CP1 can be configured, programmed and monitored through a single connection using CX-Programmer (or CXProgrammer Jr.) or the CX-One Software Suite.


CP1W Compact Display and Setting Device

Easily monitor or change data values in the PLC using the new LCD Option Board. This enables
visual checking of operation status, such as error occurrence and error details. Register in advance the functions you use often to quickly perform settings and confirm operation.

Functionality can also be expanded to items not included in the CPU Unit, such as calendars and timers.

Key Features and Benefits
  • Monitoring and Changing Data Values – All memory area values can be monitored and changed. Switch between decimal and hexadecimal or monitor 2-word hexadecimal data, such as high-speed counter values, in decimal.
  • Visual Checking of Status with Display of PLC Error Details – The backlight on the LCD screen will turn red when an error occurs to notify you of the error status. You can monitor the displayed error details and the error log.
  • Quickly display up to 16 registered messages – Up to seven fixed characters and the present value of word data can be displayed. Simply press the up and down keys from the initial screen to perform monitoring. Of course, you can also change the settings. Plus, up to 48 characters can be set in advance and then displayed when a specified bit turns ON. This makes onsite setting and confirming faster.
  • Expanded Functionality with Calendar Timers, and Other Items Not Included in the CPU Units – You can use calendar timers, weekly timers, and daily timers. Sixteen of each timer type can be set.


E3FZ/E3FR Compact Self-Amplified M18 Threaded Photoelectric Sensors

Omron’s E3FZ / E3FR series photoelectric sensors are low cost and designed for easy mounting, setup and operation. These new sensors combine compact, M18 threaded housings with the reliable optics found in Omron’s popular E3Z series. Additionally, the E3FZ series has a horizontal configuration with an innovative, fast mounting system called
“SecureClick” while the E3FR series has a right angle configuration, ideal for 90° mounting
applications. Both series also exceed industry standards for high temperature, high-pressure
wash-down applications by including IP69K housing protection.

E3FZ / E3FR Key Features
  • Compact, 40mm (E3FZ), 50mm (E3FR) length housings, ideal for confined spaces
  • The E3FZ has a “SecureClick” snap mounting mechanism (patent pending), providing a simple and fast installation method in just 2 steps (SecureClick snap holder included with each E2FZ model). Installation time is up to 3 times faster than conventional cylindrical sensors and up to 10 times faster than conventional square bodied sensors. E3FZ sensor housings are also threaded for optional M18 mounting
  • Includes proven E3Z Photo-IC chip design for reliable object detection in harsh environments
  • Individual models available for through-beam, retro-reflective, diffuse reflective (both standard and background suppression versions) sensing applications
  • High power LED for enhanced sensing distance
  • Separate models available with 2 m cable or M12 connector for choice of power and output connection
  • Separate models available for NPN or PNP to match desired output
  • Light-on/Dark-on selectable by wire
  • IP69K rated housing withstands high temperature (80°C) and high pressure 1450 psi (10,000 kPa) wash-down


E3ZM-V RGB Color-Mark Sensor

Omron’s new diffuse reflective, E3ZM-V sensor provides superior colormark detection in the same compact housing size as the E3Z family of sensors. Its cutting-edge optical design discriminates fine color differences at very high speeds while resisting typical sensing detection
difficulties associated with object movement. The new sensors include corrosion resistant stainless steel, IP69K rated housings for ideal protection in high temperature, high pressure wash-down applications.

E3ZM-V Key Features
  • Compact size (11 mm-W x 21 mm-L x 32 mm-H) less than half the size of competing models, ideal for confined spaces (see size comparison against key competitor at below)
  • Coaxial optical system design provides stable detection of moving objects to eliminate false detections
  • Discriminates fine color differences with white LED emitter and RGB receiving element
  • High speed detection at 50 μs for both ON and OFF operation
  • Easy setup by either using the sensor’s 2-point teach button or automatic teaching by sending a pulse to a remote control input
  • Separate models available with 2 m cable or M8 connector for choice of power and output connection
  • Separate models available for NPN or PNP to match desired output
  • IP69K degree of protection with a stainless steel housing resists the effects of detergents and disinfectants to withstand washing with high-temperature, high-pressure water
  • Laser etched part number and date code instead of sticker label to prevent contamination







Tuesday, October 21, 2008

New Products from Schneider Electric

Virtu 30 Analog Ultrasonic Sensor

Save installation time and money with the Virtu™ Analog Ultrasonic Sensor. Ideal for use in food, beverage and pharmaceutical applications, this sensor is offered at an economical price point and features a 30mm body style that can be installed in place of existing sensors. 

The ultrasonic sensing solution offers increased sensing distance of 4” to 39” with the option of being 0-10VDC or 4-20Ma for direct, inverse or auto-sloping functionality. The Virtu™ Analog Ultrasonic sensor allows for easy window setup, prevents tampering of the sensor while in operation, has a 30 mm cylindrical body style fits into existing mounting bracket, includes M12 connector that makes cable selection and installation easy, has durable body construction that allows the sensor to be used in harsh environments, and has a removable push button accessory.

The Virtu 30 Analog sensor features:
  • Sensing distance of 102 mm (4”) to 1 m (39”) 
  • Available in 0-10 VDC or 4-20 mA 
  • 360° LED visibility status indicators 
  • Temperature ratings 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) 
  • IP67, NEMA 4X (indoor) 
  • UL, CSA Certified and CE marked 

Modicon M340 Expands Functionality
The Modicon® M340™ programmable automation controller (PAC) now offers expanded functionality! More powerful than any other PLC in its class, its modular design and networking abilities make it ideal for simple and complex applications. 

Supported by Unity-Pro V4.0, this robust midrange PAC will address more applications and provide more flexible, open solutions when remote I/O. It also facilitates connection to third party CANopen devices. 

Easy to operate and more user friendly, the expanded functionality of the Modicon M340 midrange PAC features:
  • ”Level 2 Performance” CPU with a Modbus serial port 
  • 128 MB SD-memory card for data storage 
  • Expansion rack to provide more flexible open solutions when remote I/O is required 
  • Unity Pro V4.0 for programming and operation 
  • Integration with motion applications 
  • Improved legacy hardware migration 
  • Flexible application configuration with expansion racks. 


Modicon Unity Pro V4.0 PLC Programming Software


The Modicon Unity Pro V4.0 “All-in-one” easy to use software offers you ingenuity, flexibility and openness for increased productivity of machines, industrial processes and infrastructures.

With Unity Pro V4.0 users can easy and quickly select features needed for applications, support application development and simplify legacy application migration to new Modicon automation hardware. 

Easy to operate with a user friendly interface Unity Pro V4.0 supports all IEC 61131-3 languages, has an expanded catalog of I/O modules, e-mail (SMTP) on Ethernet embedded port of the CPU and supports multiple versions of Unity Pro software.

Unity Pro V4.0 features: 
  • Programs Modicon Quantum™, Premium™ and M340™ PLCs. 
  • Simplified legacy application migration to new Modicon automation hardware and Unity Pro software
  • Offers extensions for architectures & services 
  1. Configuration, communication, application functions 
  2. 3rd party devices on CANopen
  3. Supports the new M340 Rack Expander
  4. Addition of Pulse Train Output (PTO) motion module to control a stepper or servo motor
  • Application-specific services for Premium & Quantum 
  1. Flying shear, Simulation on Premium 
  2. Simplified architecture for HSBY Quantum 
  3. EtherNet/IP support 
  • Services for installed base application management 
  1. Automatic update for un-located data 
  2. More flexibility to convert legacy projects to Unity Pro
  • Collaborative solution 
  1. Openness on all Unity Pro models 
  2. Vista Business Edition support 




Friday, July 25, 2008

Two New Products from IDEC

12V DC MicroSmart Pentra Brings Opportunity in the Solar Industry and Vehicle Applications
MicroSmart Pentra has always meant speed, flexibility and power for micro-PLC users. Now with the new 12V DC Pentra, IDEC is targeting a new group of customers.

Demand for a 12V DC control voltage has grown as solar and vehicle applications gain popularity and require PLCs to match their power sources. With abundant features and unparalled performance, the new 12V DC MicroSmart Pentra is the perfect choice for solar systems, including traffic signs, lighting controls, road sign controls, solar tracking systems, as well as remote water pumping stations, and remote pumping and injection systems for the gas and oil industry. It is also in demand for vehicle applications, such as utility trucks, trains, vans and buses.

Available in the traditional “brick” design with 10, 16 or 24 built-in I/Os, the MicroSmart Pentra has a high-speed CPU that gives users faster scan times and better throughput. MicroSmart Pentra also supports double-word and floating point math.

Plus IDEC has upgraded its WindLDR programming software to version 5.32. With a user-friendly interface and great features such as online editing, simulation mode, a custom monitor dialog box and more, this software is easy to program and debug, as well as maintain. WindLDR 5.32 can be used on the entire range of IDEC PLCs and is available in five different languages including English, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese and German. Customers can visit www.idec.com/upgrades to download a free upgrade to 5.32. A demo version of the software is also available for a free 30-day trial. Just visit www.idec.com/demos.


IDEC HS6E 15mm Wide Interlock Switches
Here’s the skinny when it comes to machine safeguarding: IDEC now offers the thinnest solenoid-type interlock safety switches in the world, 15mm-wide HS6E. When customers want reliable protection, you can give them a high quality switch at a great low price!

HS6E Interlock switches are perfect for customers wanting to safeguard machines with a solenoid door interlock in compact housing. With 500N retention locking force and various mounting layouts, these safety switches are the perfect, entry-level product for price-conscious
OEMs thinking about safety, but hesitant to buy due to size and cost.

So how does it work? When properly installed on a machine gate or door, the HS6E safety switches can lock out or monitor an area where potential machine hazards may exist for operators. When a door is opened prior to start or during operation, the control circuit to the main power can be isolated, ensuring the machine is safe when the operator requires access.

The HS6E is available with Spring or Solenoid locking methods in addition to multiple monitor contacts for checking the actuator insertion or solenoid status. With the wide range of configurations offered, it’s possible to meet any desired level of machine safeguarding. Plus all
HS6E switches use direct open action contacts to ensure the Main or Monitor NC contacts are physically pulled apart or “force disconnected” when the actuator is removed from the safety switch.