Control Software for Panel Builders
So-called REST (Representational State Transfer) APIs are frequently offered by web servers in IoT communication in order to channel certain communication processes via a uniform and stateless interface. The TwinCAT 3 Function TF6760 TC3 IoT HTTPS/REST provides users with basic functions for HTTP/HTTPS communication in a PLC library enabling them to address REST APIs as a client and providing HTTP commands such as GET, PUT and POST.
CENTUM VP R6.07 has been enhanced to enable communication with devices that support the PROFINET Industrial Ethernet standard. Also, new functions have been added to the Automation Design Suite (AD Suite) integrated engineering environment to improve engineering efficiency. These enhancements address the latest customer needs and boost productivity.
Yokogawa Electric Corporation announced the release of Exaquantum R3.20, an enhanced version of its plant information management system (PIMS) software package in the OpreX Asset Operations and Optimization family. Exaquantum supports the digital transformation initiatives of customers in the process industries by gathering large volumes of plant data and transforming it into usable, high-value business information.
Manufacturers change their products – and you: You change your project. It can be laborious when working on a control cabinet, but Pro Panel Version 2.8 simplifies the process. In the layout navigator, you can exchange parts without deleting the existing part placement from the original control cabinet.
And it’s not a problem if the new cabinet part has several macro variants: You simply select one of the variants before the exchange (e.g., control cabinet with door hinges on the right or left). After part selection, the “select macro variant” dialogue opens automatically.
Different types of constructions for a control cabinet can be saved as variants of a 3D macro in the master data and, if needed, exchanged in a positioned control cabinet via a part swap. It’s very easy!
TURCK has launched the ARGEE 3 programming environment for its I/O devices to improve the user experience. The enhanced ARGEE programming environment is used to program logic functions inside its multiprotocol I/O devices, making them field logic controllers (FLCs). The ARGEE environment is accessible via an HTML5-compatible web browser, which eliminates the need for complex third-party software or any licensing common with PLCs.
Read more: Turck Improves Programming Environment for I/O...
On display at the 2019 Rockwell Automation Fair, GuardLink™ technology is a safety-based communications protocol that links safety to The Connected Enterprise. Allen-Bradley® Guardmaster® smart safety devices that feature GuardLink technology deliver information, advanced functionality, and flexibility. This technology helps enhance safety and increase machine- and plant-wide efficiency.
Read more: Rockwell Automation Showcases GuardLink Safety...
Editor's Pick: Featured Product News
Expanded Communications and Analog I/O Capabilities for the BRX PLC
New expansion I/O modules from AutomationDirect for the BRX stackable micro brick PLC include communications modules, universal analog I/O modules, and universal temperature combination I/O modules. Expansion modules snap onto the side of any BRX Micro PLC Unit (MPU) or BRX Remote I/O controller, creating a sturdy and rugged PLC platform.
Added BRX serial communications modules ($159.00) provide four isolated RS-232 ports that support communications flow control or RS-422 serial ports. Also available are BRX single-channel RS-232 (with flow control) and RS-422 Pluggable Option Modules ($49.00). Supported protocols include Do-more! Protocol, Modbus RTU (Master/Slave), K-Sequence, and ASCII (In/Out). Data rates are 1200 to 115,200 bps.
Products for Panel Builders
Editor's Pick: Featured Article
How to choose an Industrial Automation Controller
There are many important items to consider when choosing a controller for machine and process automation. Breaking down the equipment’s operational needs is a starting point and will help evaluate the range of controllers specified by OEMs or machine builders. Depending on how the equipment fits into the larger manufacturing environment, the automation system can provide a complete solution or just control individual parts.
The controller specified, such as a PLC or PAC, can control a single station, a machine, a process unit, a whole assembly line or an entire plant. If an integrated manufacturing system is being automated, a single large controller using multiple expansion and remote I/O bases communicating via Ethernet can provide end-to-end control.
Panel Building Tips
How To Build a Motor Starter in Accordance With UL 508A
UL 508A allows control panel builders to apply a UL label to their finished assemblies without having to run those assemblies through specific UL testing. As long as they adhere to the standard’s requirements, builders can put the UL label on the finished product and save money by not having to send it to UL for testing.
According to UL, the UL 508A standard applies to industrial control panels intended for general industrial use that operate from a voltage of 1000 volts or less. This standard also applies to industrial control panel enclosures and industrial control panels used for flame safety supervision of combustible fuel type equipment; elevator control; crane or hoist control; service equipment use and various other applications.
News for Panel Builders
