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28 March, 2024

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Automation platform integrates motion with an industrial PC

23 November, 2014

Bosch Rexroth has combined a PLC-based motion logic system with a Windows PC, allowing machine-builders to run PC software on the same platform as real-time motion control. It says that the new IndraMotion MLC controller will open up new applications by integrating Web-based technologies, high-level languages, Ethernet-based communications and Windows applications.


Multi-axis PAC has built-in APIs for advanced controls

21 November, 2014

Delta Electronics has announced a PAC (programmable automation controller) with integrated motion control functions, which supports EtherCat and DMCNET communications. The MH-1 Series PAC has built-in application-specific APIs which are said to make it easier to implement CNC, robot and IEC 61131 controls.


Reporting software alerts users via their smart watches

19 November, 2014

Schneider Electric has released a new version of its Wonderware SmartGlance mobile reporting software with new functions that include support for wearable technologies, such as smart watches. The 2014 R2 version of the software is claimed to make it easier for users to monitor, visualise and analyse real-time plant and industrial process data via mobile devices.


Servodrive integrates safety via Ethernet/IP

07 November, 2014

Rockwell Automation has announced a servodrive that uses the Ethernet/IP network for machine safety functions. The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5500 with integrated safety is based on the company's Kinetix 5500 servodrive and offers the same high-speed coordination for demanding motion applications.


Smart camera in a vision sensor format ‘sets new standard’

04 November, 2014

Datalogic has announced a smart camera which, it claims, sets a new standard in machine vision by providing advanced smart camera functions in an embedded vision sensor form factor. The modular P-Series camera uses interchangeable embedded lenses and illuminators that can be mounted and replaced in the field.


Disconnect switch simplifies designs for global panel-builders

04 November, 2014

Rockwell Automation has announced a universal visible-blade disconnect switch that will help panel-builders to meet global standards, including UL, CSA, CE and CCC. Initially, the Allen-Bradley Bulletin 1494U disconnect switch is available in 30A, 60A and 100A ratings, and will be extended up to 600A next year.


Maintenance-free industrial UPS has no batteries

03 November, 2014

Panduit has launched a maintenance-free uninterruptible power supply (UPS) that backs up industrial managed Ethernet switches using ultra-capacitors instead of batteries, thus eliminating the main cause of conventional UPS failures. The company says that its Industrial Network UPS will lower the risk of downtime due to battery failures by 39%, as well as doubling the return-on-investment and cutting the cost of ownership by 50-70% compared than conventional UPSs.


Gateway links IO-Link devices to industrial Ethernet

29 October, 2014

Comtrol has announced a device which, it says, combines the benefits of IO-Link sensor communications with EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP industrial Ethernet protocols. The IO-Link Master 4-EIP Master connects “smart” IO-Link sensors and actuators to factory networks, while shielding PLC programmers from the complexities of IO-Link. It is said to result in simpler EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP interfaces, cutting system development times and installation efforts.


Device converts existing wires into Ethernet rings

27 October, 2014

Phoenix Contact has announced a device that uses existing copper wires to create redundant Ethernet ring structures with data rates of up to 15 Mbps for two-wire operation or 30Mbps for four-wire operation. The device also enables Ethernet communications over distances of up to 20km, instead of the usual limit of around 100m.


Motion controller and EtherCat master handles 64 axes

27 October, 2014

The Israeli controls manufacturer ACS Motion Control has announced its most powerful line of motion controllers and EtherCat masters to date. The SPiiPlusEC controllers expand the capabilities of the company’s earlier SPiiPlus controllers and EtherCat network managers.


Fixed-mount imager checks for thermal problems and fires

24 October, 2014

Flir Systems has announced a fixed-mount temperature sensor that combines thermal and visible cameras in a small, affordable package. The AX8 sensor can be installed in tight spaces to perform continuous, automated monitoring of the temperatures of critical electrical and mechanical equipment. It can also be used to detect fires.


Condition monitoring integrates with machine controls

24 October, 2014

Rockwell Automation has announced a low-cost, condition-monitoring system for monitoring and protecting machinery that integrates with control systems. Instead of operating independently, the Allen-Bradley Dynamix 1444 system uses Rockwell’s Integrated Architecture system to assess equipment health, to predict potential issues, and to help avoid damage to critical machinery.


Device stops cylinders precisely at intermediate points

22 October, 2014

Festo has announced a module that can be positioned anywhere along the stroke length of a pneumatic actuator to create stops where they are needed. A “unique” follow-through function is claimed to allow faster cycle times after such stops.


All-in-one HMI-PLCs offer new screen sizes and dense I/Os

21 October, 2014

Unitronics, the Israeli manufacturer of integrated controller-HMIs, has announced several extensions to its range including:


Side-by-side modular drives save cabinet space

17 October, 2014

At next month’s SPS IPC Drives show in Germany, Siemens will be launching a second generation of its Sinamics G120 modular drives with significantly higher power densities than before. The new drives can be mounted side-by-side without derating, reducing not only space requirements but also the cost of the control cabinets.


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