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Low-cost redundant controls open up smaller applications
B&R Automation has come up with a low-cost way of offering redundant control using two of its standard X20 controllers working together – one providing active control, while the other runs in standby. This results in a redundant control system that is much cheaper than a dedicated system, allowing it to be used for smaller applications.
All network functions are monitored continuously so that the backup controller can take over the active PLC’s functions speedily when needed. The active controller uses the same IP address as its predecessor. It takes just two task cycles – a few milliseconds – to switch from one PLC to the other.
This system makes use of the Powerlink real-time Ethernet protocol. All important data – the I/O image, for example – is synchronised continuously between the active and standby controllers via a high-speed fibre-optic link.
The engineering effort required to set up the redundant system consists of declaring the PLC a redundant system and configuring the communication parameters or failure criteria. The controllers can be reconfigured at any time, using B&R’s Automation Studio software to implement functions that cut downtime.
