HMIs for hazardous area applications.

A highly communicative local operator interface from R. Stahl HMI Systems provides a new level of user friendliness and connectivity to almost all relevant automation systems for hazardous areas applications.

Series 200

The innovative ET-208 HMI comes with a number of serial interfaces including USB and connectors for different bus systems as well as Industrial Ethernet – all explosion-protected. Simatic S7-300, -400, and -1200 connector modules allow data transfer using PROFINET, PROFIBUS, or MPI protocols. Barcode scanners and RFID readers can be connected via a reader box. This rugged HMI has been optimized for reliable and permanent operation even in the most demanding environments. It withstands ambient temperatures ranging from -40 °C to +65 °C and is highly vibration-resistant, which makes it suitable for applications in harsh environments, such as on drilling rigs, or in close proximity to compressors, mixers or centrifuges. The 7-inch touchscreen display is protected by a specially strengthened glass pane. The device boasts a seawater-resistant, IP66-rated metal enclosure.

The easy-to-use widescreen operator interface features a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and with its powerful Cortex A8 processor is as user-friendly as a smartphone. The luminous display technology incorporates an anti-reflective coating that offers excellent readability in direct sunlight. Optionally, Stahl HMI Systems can integrate additional function keys that can be customized to meet specific needs. If required, the unit is also available with an additional matrix of up to 4 x 8 keys. The default HMI comes with pre-installed Windows Embedded Compact 7; upon request, an open-source operating system can be installed to integrate customer-specific software. The ET-208 can be configured with the SPSPlusWIN project engineering software, a very popular tool in machine engineering that allows comfortable configuration of parameters such as display, process control, or notification settings. Reverse compatibility with the monochrome FALCON series product line ensures an easy changeover to this new line of HMIs.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.