Support for Ethernet remote I/O modules.

Simplifies cloud connectivity and data sharing across the network.

Acromag’s BusWorks® NT series remote I/O modules now offer a cost-effective solution for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications. The NT Ethernet I/O modules provide an OPC UA server and MQTT client in addition to the fieldbus protocol stacks (Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP, and PROFINET). This integrated IIoT functionality offers a standardized data exchange to simplify industrial communication in an increasingly complex environment. Applications for these high-performance Ethernet I/O modules include remote data acquisition, status monitoring, actuator control, predictive maintenance, energy management, and more.

The new OPC UA and MQTT support make data sharing and connecting to the cloud very easy and secure. Users can combine Ethernet protocols with IoT protocols for real time and IoT data transfer over the same network cable. An abstract data object model eliminates hassles with protocol details. The user application simply reads and writes data that is transparently fed into the IoT protocols and information models. Input, output and configuration data objects closely resemble fieldbus I/O tags to simplify data exchanges.

NTE Ethernet I/O models have dual RJ45 ports and a webserver for monitoring or controlling its I/O channels to interface sensors and actuators with system controllers. Each I/O module offers up to 16 input or output signals for voltage, current, temperature, and relay control signals. Connecting up to three NTX expansion I/O modules enables interfacing an additional 48 channels with a mix of I/O functions networked on a single IP address.

“With the addition of OPC UA and MQTT capabilities, NT Series Ethernet I/O modules make data from remote equipment available for sophisticated applications in the cloud or on edge gateways,” explains Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Director of Business Development.

The NT2000 Series offers a broad variety of I/O signal processing options. Fifteen I/O configurations are available as either NTE Ethernet I/O or NTX expansion I/O models. Analog I/O models feature eight differential or sixteen single-ended inputs for monitoring current or voltage signals. Analog output modules drive eight channels of process current or voltage signals to control various field devices. Discrete I/O models provide 16 tandem input/output channels with either active high/low input and sinking/sourcing output. A six-channel mechanical relay output model is also available. For temperature monitoring, thermocouple and RTD input models support many sensor types, as well as resistance and millivolt ranges. More models will release over the coming months for additional I/O functions.

In addition to the new IIoT protocols, each module will also support all three industrial Ethernet protocols which are selectable using any web browser to configure the network settings and I/O operation. The modules typically function as a network server, but also offer Acromag’s i2o® peer-to-peer communication technology to transfer data between modules directly or multicast without a host or master in between. Conditional logic capabilities let users control operations with IF/THEN/ELSE statements.

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@Acromag #PAuto #Comms 

Expansion modules.

Designed to be used in process plants, ReeR MA2 and MA4 expansion modules allow the connection of the Mosaic system to analogue sensors including, flow meters, level measurement, load cells, pressure switches, temperature meters etc.

In compliance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and EN IEC 61508 standards series, these modules can be used in process plants, for SIS systems and SIF functions (see IEC 61511-1: 2016).

#PAuto @reersafety

I/O modules for harsh conditions.

Manufacturers can now realize the design and productivity benefits of On-Machine I/O modules on smart machines used in harsh applications. The new Allen-Bradley ArmorBlock I/O modules can operate in a wide range of temperatures and offer up to IP69K protection in applications like automotive, material handling, packaging and welding.

The ArmorBlock I/O options can be mounted anywhere on a machine for shorter cable runs and lower wiring costs. They use nickel-plated zinc die-cast housing, have QuickConnect functionality and offer diagnostics in an EtherNet/IP universal digital I/O block to reduce commissioning and troubleshooting times.

Three IO-Link hub blocks help reduce design complexity by allowing more devices through the IO-Link master. And an M12 L-coded power connector on selected blocks supports higher current, allowing more blocks to be daisy-chained and resulting in lower wiring and installation costs.

For companies with separate I/O blocks for digital input and output, the ArmorBlock I/O modules are an ideal choice. They provide 16-channel self-configurable digital I/O with flexibility to be used as the digital input or output depending on the application needs.

#PAuto @ROKAutomation

New I/O Modules.

Hot on the heels of the recent release of three specialty input/output modules* for the groov EPIC® platform, Opto 22 has now announced two more modules to close out the year. For system integrators and engineers, the new I/O modules provide more options for bringing field bus networks into groov EPIC, as well as meeting requirements for temperature control applications with high I/O count.

GRV-CCANI-2 (serial communication, 2 channels, CAN 2.0B, channel-to-channel isolation) is the first module in the groov EPIC platform to provide hardware support for an industrial field bus. This new module enables existing CAN networks to be brought into IIoT applications using groov EPIC’s fluid IT/OT connectivity tools, like Ignition Edge®, Node-RED, and MQTT. groov EPIC also supports integrating CAN data into control applications using IEC 61131-3 languages, and enables mobile visualization of CAN data using groov View™. Up to 8 CAN buses per processor at network speeds up to 1 Mbps are supported.

GRV-ITM-12 (analog input, 12 channels, thermocouple or millivolt) provides a high-density, low-cost temperature sensing option with two isolated zones and 6 channels per zone. Each channel is software configurable to one of seven millivolt ranges or eight thermocouple types (Type B, E, J, K, N, R, S, T). GRV-ITM-12 is accurate to 0.1% of the configured range over 20-bit resolution for V/mV sensing, with accuracy ranging from 2.0-5.0 °C for thermocouple sensing.

*Three I/O modules join family! (22 Oct 2019)

#Pauto @opto22

Three I/O modules join family!

Opto 22 will release three new groov EPIC® input/output modules later this month. They will extend an already comprehensive industrial I/O portfolio. For system integrators and engineers, the new I/O modules provide more options for bringing existing devices into groov EPIC, as well as meeting precise requirements for temperature control applications. They also include budget-beating designs for mixed signal types, signal isolation, and channel density:

GRV-IDCSW-12 (discrete input, 12 channels, DC contact switch status) monitors the open/closed status of dry contact switches, and provides the necessary excitation voltage to power the circuit. This module is ideal for monitoring distributed IT equipment, benchtop analyzers, motor run/stop relays, or any device that offers only a dry contact for status. Because there’s no need to install separate power supplies to drive these dry contacts—since wetting and monitoring are both provided—this module can save considerable time, money, space, and installation effort.

GRV-IVI-12 (analog voltage input, 12 channels, ±1.25 to ±160 V, channel-to-channel isolation): With 12 isolated channels, each configurable to one of eight ranges from ±1.25 to ±160 V, this module eliminates the need to segregate I/O signals over multiple modules, providing significant cost and space reduction for mixed voltage applications. The GRV-IVI-12 has 20-bit resolution and is accurate to 0.1% of the configured range. It includes options for scaling, filtering, averaging, and more, speeding development time and distributing computation functions down to the I/O module.

GRV-IRTD-8 (analog input, 8 channels, temperature/RTD or resistor) increases options for accuracy and I/O density in temperature applications. It provides 8 channels for 2- and 3-wire RTD inputs, with a maximum range of –200 °C to 850 °C. Users can take advantage of multiple fixed ranges or one of two auto-ranging methods to simplify configuration. GRV-IRTD-8 can also be used for high-resolution resistance measurements, with accuracy ranging from 4.2 Ohms at the 8K Ohm input range to 0.058 Ohms at the 10 Ohm range for 3-wire RTDs.

PAC Project 10.2003 or the Opto 22 Library Package for CODESYS v1.0.2.0 are required for full support of these modules.

Opto 22 designs groov I/O modules with the end user in mind, including many features to make them easy to specify, install, configure and support for even the most challenging applications. These new modules continue that tradition with the following features:

+ Two-position, hinged LED module cover that indicates module status and covers field terminations + Touch-sensitive pad to trigger module information display on the groov EPIC processor + Removable top-mounted connector with single, captive retention screw + Spring-clamp field wiring terminals + Hot swappable for installation and removal without turning off or stopping the system + UL Hazardous Locations approved and ATEX compliant + Wide operating temperature range of –20 to +70 °C + Individually calibrated and factory tested twice—no statistical testing + Guaranteed for life

With this latest module release, users can choose from almost 40 types of groov I/O modules to support their application requirements. Combined with its variety of embedded software tools for control, visualization and connectivity, this extensive I/O family makes groov EPIC one of the most versatile tools for industrial automation and IIoT (industrial internet of things) systems.

#PAuto @opto22

Precision laser module.

The origin of their precision is their alignment. In practice, this means that the laser beam of precision lasers is emitted parallel to the housing. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a given.

Standard laser modules exhibit an angular error of 0.5° or more. This means that at a distance of 1 m, the laser beam lands almost 10 mm away from the axis of the housing. If the laser is mechanically adjustable, this does not matter. If, however, the alignment of the laser is not possible because, for example, it is placed in a fix bore hole or adjustment is too complex, then Laser Components' precision laser is used.

The angular deviation of the LT-PLM-532 amounts to 0.05 mrad or ± 0.05 mm at a distance of 1 m. This is an improvement of 200 times over the example shown above – and essential if machines or components have to be aligned very precisely.

A precision laser is also available with a 532 nm green laser light for mere visual alignment in a bright environment. The ability to recognize green light over red light on very dark surfaces or under daylight-like conditions is vastly improved. In addition, the dot is smaller and appears sharper, especially at shorter distances.

The precision laser is available with two types of housings: round with a diameter of 24 mm or square with a 32 mm edge length. The round lasers have an h6 fit for assembly at zero clearance. The power supply of up to 30 VDC is in the form of an integrated M12 connection. With an output power of 1 mW, these laser modules are eye safe in accordance with laser class 2.

@LaserComponents #PAuto 

Laser modules smaller than a pin.

New laser modules from Laser Components are smaller than a pin, illuminate as a red or green dot, as a red line, or as a red cross-hair. Some of them can be used at temperatures of up to 60°C, and others can be focused.

They are inexpensive; for this reason they are commonly used in systems that require a low price. There are three series available that differ according to their wavelength:

LC-LMD-525-120-01-A: Dot lasers at a wavelength of 520 nm. Despite the perceived brightness, this module is assigned to laser class 2. Thus, it has an output power of >1 mW and can be operated comfortably with a voltage between 3 - 6 volts.

The LC-LMP-635 series is focusable and is available as dot, cross-hair, or line laser. The modules have an output power of 3 mW; the wavelength is 635 nm.

The striking feature of the LC-LMD-650-02-T60 dot lasers is the surrounding temperature that may be as hot as up to 60 °C without affecting the properties of the laser module. Others begin to sweat at 20 °C. The module falls under laser class 2 with < 1 mW and is so small that it can be integrated into small systems as well: With a length of 11.5 mm and a diameter of 6.2 mm, it is comparable to the cap of a retractable penci

In-Chassis PROFIBUS® Interface at the price of a Gateway.

The convenience and functionality of an in-chassis PROFIBUS® interface is available at the cost of a gateway from ProSoft Technology. The PROFIBUS DPV1 Master and Slave modules for CompactLogix™ provides this and more.

The Master module integrates with RSLogix™ 5000 using a sample Add-On Instruction, which reduces its configuration time.

The Master module’s Autoscan feature helps reduce configuration and startup times by scanning the PROFIBUS network and uploading the slave devices’ addresses and configuration information so the user doesn’t have to manually input the information. The Master module also enables asset-management software to remotely configure, commission, maintain and diagnose your fieldbus devices over their entire lifecycle.

The Master module’s SD card allows the user to store configuration files, which can be used for disaster recovery.

Two-channel I/O analog input & output modules work on a 4-20mA current loop with HART.

Industrial automation manufacturer Opto 22 has released the SNAP-AIMA-iH and SNAP-AOA-23-iH two-channel analog input and output modules, each with HART communications. Both SNAP I/O modules use the HART communications protocol to extract status, diagnostics, and other information from smart devices such as field-mounted process transmitters and analyzers. This information can be used by the automation system and/or the asset management system to increase uptime, improve productivity and enhance safety.

HART is the most widely used digital communications protocol in process automation, and the HART Communication Foundation is continually updating the protocol.

The SNAP-AIMA-iH analog input module has two isolated 4-20 mA input channels, and the SNAP-AOA-23-iH output module has two isolated 4-20 mA output channels. Each channel features an integrated HART modem that allows the channel to communicate digitally with the HART FSK (frequency-shift keying) signal imposed on the 4-20 mA current loop, enabling communication with the target smart device.

Each channel is a HART master device when used with Opto 22 programmable automation controllers (PACs), and can communicate with other HART current loop devices in either point-to-point or multidrop configurations.

The SNAP-AIMA-iH analog input module is categorized by the HART protocol as a current input connection type, which means that the module is a low-impedance device. The SNAP-AOA-23-iH analog output module is categorized by the HART protocol as a current output device, which means that each channel can provide the required loop current and is a high-impedance device.

Each module includes LED indicators to provide status information, such as HART channel operation, communication errors, or zero loop current or voltage reading.

Both analog modules are transformer isolated as well as optically isolated from all other modules and from the I/O processor. Transformer isolation prevents ground loop currents from flowing between field devices and causing noise that produces erroneous readings. Ground loop currents are caused when two grounded field devices share a connection, and the ground potential at each device is different. Transformer isolation provides 1500 volts of transient (1500 V for 1 s) protection from industrial field signals.

In addition, all channels are isolated from each other. Channel-to-channel isolation provides complete freedom from ground-loop problems, even on grounded devices connected to channels on the same module.

SNAP-AIMA-iH and SNAP-AOA-23-iH modules are used with Opto 22’s SNAP PAC System, which includes programmable automation controllers (PACs), Ethernet-based I/O systems, and PAC Project automation software. All HART commands for wired devices including universal, common practice, and device-specific commands are available for these modules in PAC Control programming software (version 9.4 and higher), facilitating quick integration with HART smart devices.

Process engineers can incorporate data from HART devices into their control applications just as they do the analog, digital, and serial I/O signals received from other SNAP I/O modules installed on the I/O rack. And using Opto 22’s groov mobile operator interface, HART device and all other control system data can be displayed quickly and simply on any mobile device.

The modules can also be used with other process controllers. Opto 22 offers the SNAP PAC .NET HART developer toolkit so a user can easily integrate the HART SNAP I/O modules into an existing application. This toolkit is available for download

Analogue input Ethernet modules

16 Channels into an inch-wide unit saves space and costs

Acromag has released two of their newest models in the BusWorks^® XT Series of Ethernet I/O modules. The XT1230 and XT1240 models provide a 16-channel interface for single-ended analogue current or voltage input signals with Ethernet/IP, Modbus/TCP, Profinet, or i2o^® peer-to-peer communication. The space-saving inch-wide design features dual Ethernet ports, removable front-facing terminal blocks, and DIN rail power bus support. Its convenient USB-to-PC connection and free Windows software makes configuration quick and uncomplicated. Suitable for use in harsh environments, all modules operate from -40 to 70°C with noise immunity, surge protection, and CE compliance. UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2 Zone 2 hazardous location approval is pending.

“We are continually expanding the BusWorks XT Series in order to provide more modules with even greater versatility,” explained Acromag sales manager Rob Frewald. “Beyond our digital offerings, we now support up to 16 channels of analog input for our customers to squeeze in more channels at a lower cost, even when space is scarce.”

The XT1230 accepts current inputs of 0-11mA, 0-20mA, 4-20mA, ±20mA, or 0-20 amps AC with optional toroid sensor. The XT1240 accommodates ±5V, ±10V, 0-5V, or 0-10V input ranges. All units run off a 12-32V DC power source (2.8W) at the terminals or through an integrated power connector bussed along the DIN rail that can provide primary or redundant power. Each model offers a choice of Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or Modbus TCP/IP protocols with peer-to-peer i2o communication support. Dual 10/100 Ethernet ports allow daisy-chaining units together to simplify cabling and minimize the network switches required, reducing overall system costs.

For even more dependable communication, BusWorks XT units employ Innovasic PriorityChannel technology which makes certain that critical data is received on time regardless of traffic on the network. PriorityChannel provides determinism at the device for consistent transmission of time-sensitive data with any of the Ethernet protocols.

Many other features add greater flexibility and performance. High input impedance reduces loading on voltage loops with XT1240 models, with the XT1230 models’ low input impedance reduces loading on current loops. The configuration software enables use of sample averaging on a per-channel basis. For reliability, operation and diagnostic LEDs offer visual status updates and aid in trouble-shooting.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. With a headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors, Acromag products are sold worldwide. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O modules, and network communication devices. Industries served include manufacturing, water services, power generation, mining, defense, and transportation.

New 8-Channel Ethernet modules provide reliable interface for analogue current or voltage inputs!

Acromag has expanded its BusWorks® XT Series of Ethernet I/O modules with XT1210 and XT1220 models that provide an 8-channel interface for analog voltage or current input signals and Ethernet/IP, Modbus/TCP, Profinet, or peer-to-peer communication. Differential inputs have superior noise rejection for reliable measurements when radio frequency or electromagnetic interference is present. Internal software helps eliminate the effects of network traffic loads for more reliable messaging. The sleek design features dual Ethernet ports, removable front-facing terminal blocks, and DIN rail power bus support. Its convenient USB-to-PC connection makes configuration fast and simple with free Windows software. Suitable for use in harsh environments, all modules operate from -40 to 70°C with high voltage isolation, surge protection, and CE approval. UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2 Zone 2 hazardous location approval is pending.

“We continue to develop the BusWorks XT Series to provide even greater versatility, adding analog input modules alongside our current line of digital I/O,” explained Don Lupo, process group sales and marketing director. “The use of differential inputs and Innovasic’s PriorityChannel™ technology greatly increase reliability by eliminating the risks of signal interference and network congestion.”

The XT1210 model accepts current inputs of 0-20mA, 4-20mA, ±20mA DC, or 0-20 amps AC with an optional toroid sensor. The XT1220 accommodates ±5V, ±10V, 0-5V, or 0-10V DC input ranges. All units run off a 12- 32V DC power source (2.8W) at the terminals or through an integrated power connector bussed along the DIN rail that can provide primary or redundant power. Several versions offers a choice of Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or Modbus TCP/IP protocols with peer-to-peer i2o® communication support. Dual 10/100 Ethernet ports allow daisy-chaining units together to simplify cabling and minimize the network switches required, reducing overall system costs.

For more dependable communication, BusWorks XT units employ Innovasic PriorityChannel technology which makes certain that critical data is received on time regardless of traffic on the network. PriorityChannel provides determinism at the device for consistent transmission of time-sensitive data with any of the Ethernet protocols.Many other features add greater flexibility and performance. High input impedance reduces loading on voltage loops. The configuration software enables use of sample averaging on a per-channel basis. For reliability, operation and diagnostic LEDs offer visual status updates and aide in trouble-shooting.

I/O modules expand analog signal options!

Opto 22 has announced two new high-frequency analog SNAP I/O modules: the SNAP-AIRATE-HFi rate-input module and the SNAP-AOD-29-HFi module with pulse-width modulation (PWM) and time-proportional output (TPO). These SNAP I/O modules are ideal for test engineers, technicians, and others working with high-speed machinery, equipment test beds, and other applications that monitor high-frequency analog signals and rapidly switch digital outputs in response to a changing analog value. Both SNAP-AIRATE-HFi and SNAP-AOD-29-HFi modules are used with Opto 22’s SNAP PAC System, which includes programmable automation controllers (PACs) and Ethernet-based I/O systems.

The SNAP-AIRATE-HFi analog input module connects to TTL, CMOS, and open-collector outputs, and is typically used for high-speed (up to 500 kHz) pulse scanning. The module has two isolated channels, each of which can be configured for a 0.1-second measurement interval with an input range of 20 Hz to 500 kHz, or a 1-second measurement interval with an input range of 2 Hz to 500 kHz. For each channel, 9 VDC is provided internally for devices with open-collector outputs, making it unnecessary to provide a pull-up voltage supply.

The SNAP-AOD-29-HFi sends pulse-width modulated outputs to high-frequency transducers and can be used, for example, with test bed applications that simulate tachometer outputs. Each of the module’s two optically isolated channels can switch 100 mA of load current ranging from 2.5 VDC to 24 VDC (supplied externally), over a period range of 10 microseconds to 64.25 seconds (0-100 kHz). Like all Opto 22 SNAP I/O modules, the SNAP-AIRATE-HFi and SNAP-AOD-29-HFi modules are optically isolated from the equipment and devices they connect to, as well as from other analog, digital, and serial modules on a shared I/O rack.

COM express modules

GE Intelligent Platforms has added to the company’s growing range of COM Express modules with the launch of its highest performance offering to date, the rugged bCOM6-L1400. 

Taking advantage of the significant processing and graphics capabilities of the recently-announced Intel® Core™ i7 processor, the bCOM6-L1400 can support multiple independent displays in a wide variety of commercial, industrial, transportation and defense applications in a broad range of embedded computing environments. 


 The launch of the bCOM6-L1400 further expands GE’s range of rugged COM Express solutions following a series of announcements. The most recent of these was the launch of the rugged bCOM6-L1200 – which features a range of five VIA Nano™ and VIA Eden™ processor options - in February. 

By separating the carrier card from the processor, the COM Express architecture extends the useful life of the subsystem by allowing simple, cost-effective upgrade of the processor alone. This reduces long term cost of ownership while ensuring that performance keeps pace with changing needs.
Offered with a choice of either a dual-core or quad-core processor for maximum flexibility and enabling customers to select the optimum price-performance/watt combination for the planned application, the bCOM6-L1400 takes advantage of GE’s extensive experience and expertise in the design and development of rugged COM Express modules. It also complements GE Intelligent Platforms’ extensive portfolio of rugged embedded computing solutions that includes single board computers, multiprocessors, Ethernet switches, displays and networking.

The bCOM6-L1400 can be confidently deployed in the harshest, most challenging environments that are subject to extremes of temperature, vibration, shock and contaminants. Its components are specifically selected for reliable operation in hostile environments, and the processor and memory are soldered to the board for the highest possible resistance to external forces. 

Extended mechanical construction protects the module, which is designed for optional conformal coating for even greater resistance to moisture, dust, chemicals, and temperature extremes. Sophisticated dynamic thermal management optimizes uptime and helps prevent damage to the system.

GE is able to provide customers with the support necessary to enable them to develop their own carrier card configurations, or to provide custom carrier card variants on request. This ability provides significant flexibility to systems integrators looking to create unique, high value-added solutions. 

“The bCOM6-L1400 is a further example of GE’s rugged high performance platform strategy in action, and of our commitment to bringing the most recent processor technologies to market as rapidly as possible,” said Steve Pavlovsky, Product General Manager, Control & Communication Systems, GE Intelligent Platforms. “The COM Express architecture is ideal for OEMs looking to reduce developments costs, minimize risk and time to market and to provide the lowest possible cost of ownership. With the announcement of GE’s bCOM6-L1400, those customers get not just the benefits of COM Express and of Intel’s latest processor, but also outstanding performance, exceptional flexibility, remarkable robustness – and the commitment to customer satisfaction for which GE is renowned.”

As well as its graphics capabilities (VGA, LVDS with dual channel support and SDVO/TMDS/DisplayPort over DDI), the bCOM6-L1400 features up to 8GBytes of DDR3 memory, Gigabit Ethernet and four SATA interfaces, with support for both RAID 0 and RAID 1. Also provided for optimum connectivity are eight USB 2.0 ports and four USB 3.0 ports.

Eternet module

RJ45 connector module for transmission rates up to 10 Gbit/s

An RJ45 Category 6 Ethernet module that allows transmission rates of up to 10 Gbit/s has been added to the Han-Modular(R) Series of industrial connectors from Harting.

In addition to its high-speed capabilities, the new RJ45 Ethernet module offers a very high level of mechanical stability, allowing it to be used in applications with high mechanical demands.

The module is executed as a gender changer on the socket side so that inserting a commercially available RJ45 patch cable is all that is needed to make the connection. Two Category 6 solutions are available on the male connector: a field-installable version with an RJ Industrial interface and a module that is capable of accommodating corresponding Harting patch cables.

The compact module incorporates a complete 360° shielded RJ45 metal coupler, and is 100% plug compatible with Harting's previous RJ45 module.

The Harting Han-Modular® open connector system allows users to assemble customised connector configurations to suit their requirements. More than 40 different modules are available for electric, optical and pneumatic transmission.

New modules connect optical and electrical Profibus networks

The Siemens Industry Automation Division has developed new optical link modules (OLM) for Profibus networks.

The OLM P22 and OLM G22 modules each have two optical Profibus interfaces using bayonet fibre optic connector (BFOC) technology and two electrical interfaces of the sub-D type. This enables two separate electronic Profibus segments to be integrated into one optical network structure, such as a redundant ring. Whereas the OLM P22 version supports plastic fiber-optic cable (FOC), the OLM G22 is designed for glass fiber-optic cable. Both have a signal contact as a measurement terminal with which the optical signal quality can be monitored.

The Siemens Profibus OLMs enable optical Profibus networks to be constructed using line, star and redundant ring structures. The transmission rate of a fiber-optic link of up to three kilometers in length is up to 12 Megabaud/second and does not depend on the distance.

Siemens offers a wide range of Profibus components for electrical and optical networks. OLM components safeguard the transition between the two types of network, thereby permitting the construction of hybrid structures.

CAN I/O expansion modules

New CANbus I/O modules suit Trio CANI/O or CANopen protocols for flexible machine control expansion

Trio Motion Technology has launched a new range of modular DIN-rail mounted CAN I/O expansion modules that feature switchable TrioCAN I/O and CANopen DS401 protocols to allow use across its Motion Coordinator motion and machine control families as well as providing as a competitively priced decentralised I/O extension system for third party CANopen devices.

The range includes separate and combined 16-point digital input and output modules, an 8-input + 4-output analogue module, and an 8-channel relay output module – all with standard industrial signal levels and fully certified EMC emission and immunity ratings. The new modules may be freely mixed to a maximum of 32 CAN addresses for the P317, P318, P319 and P327 all at 500kHz in Trio Mode or up to 1MHz in CANopen Mode.This allows generous and flexible I/O expansion capability with considerably reduced machine wiring for OEMs and systems integrators using Trio motion controllers or CANopen device users requiring standalone digital or analogue system expansion for signal processing, actuators, feedback signal and sensor monitoring etc.

Supplied in compact ABS enclosures, each measuring only 26 mm wide x 85 mm deep x 130 mm high, the new range is designed for efficient panel installation and convenient monitoring with all modules featuring individual channel status LEDs and removable front and top mounted screw terminal blocks for power supply and I/O interfacing. For straightforward set up, module address and CAN protocol selection is via front panel DIP switches conveniently located behind a small window with a card slot which is aligned with the status LEDs and may be marked as a visual channel reference. The range of CAN modules have been EMC tested against and passed the EN 61000-6-2 : 2005 for industrial noise immunity and EN61000-6-4 : 2007 for industrial noise emissions.

When used with Trio's flagship MC464 Motion Coordinator and across the full Trio Motion Coordinator range where a TrioCAN I/O communication card is fitted, the Motion Perfect 2 programming environment automatically configures all I/O channels over the complete CAN bus with plug and play simplicity. The integrated controller I/O and external CAN I/O is seamlessly programmed with a choice of Trio's TrioBASIC programming language, or G-code, or with IEC61131-3 on the advanced MC464 Motion Coordinator motion and machine control system. For those wishing to use the CANopen DS401 protocol, Trio provides comprehensive documentation and technical support to ensure trouble-free system integration.

The P319 is a combined 16 channel digital I/O module that replaces Trio's previous P316 CAN expansion module with a functionally identical I/O rating that allows drop in product replacement but in a much smaller footprint design, and at a single unit list price some 33% less than its predecessor. The 16 bidirectional I/O points are rated at 16 to 24V with 2500V isolation and output capacity at 250 mA per channel with full overcurrent and temperature protection. Power requirements are 24V at 1.5 W.

The P318 CAN 16 Input Module and P317 CAN 16 Output Module share identical specifications to the bidirectional module but offer 16 full input or output points. Up to 256 digital I/O points may be configured on the bus for digital modules.

Trio's new P326 CAN Analogue I/O module combines eight +/- 10 V inputs and four +/- 10 V outputs, both having 1kV isolation from the CAN bus. The 12-bit resolution will allow use in the vast majority of analogue I/O control applications and up to four modules in Trio Mode (32 input channels and 16 output channels) and 32 in CANopen Mode(256 input channels and 128 output channels) may be configured over a distance of up to 100 m in each CAN network.

The new P327 CAN Relay Module provides eight outputs configured as four switch over contacts and four normally open contacts rated for 0.5 A at 125 VAC and 1 A at 24 VDC. Up to 16 modules in Trio Mode and 32 in CANopen Mode provide a maximum relay output count of up to 256 channels.