Wider range of applications for compact IP65/67 IO system.

Siemens has expanded its product line of extremely compact Simatic ET 200AL IO systems, which have the high IP65/67 degree of protection, to include modules with the M12 connection system, higher output currents, and longer maximum distances between modules.

Analog and digital actuators, and sensors, such as IO-Link devices, can be connected to the new M12 modules, which have up to 16 digital inputs. The high channel density reduces both the wiring effort and the space requirement for higher quantity structures. As the output current is now twice as high, actuators with a current consumption of up to 2 amperes can be connected. The maximum distance between two modules has now been increased from 10 to 15 meters, which now makes the Simatic ET 200AL IO system suitable for widely distributed IOs in large machines and systems. Groups of actuators can now be shutdown safely according to SIL2 via the ET 200AL outputs.

Background information:
At IP65/67, this Simatic ET 200AL IO system has a high degree of protection, an extremely compact design, a small space requirement and a low weight. It has been specially designed for applications in confined spaces and those involving motion. The devices are mounted directly in a machine or assembly line on site, for example on drag chain conveyors, where the M8 and the new M12 connection systems are used to connect the actuators and sensors in confined spaces. The rugged modules are designed for use within a temperature range from -25 to +55 degrees Celsius. They can be flexibly screwed on through the front or side in all kinds of mounting situations, for example to give a perfect fit on a mounting rail. With module widths of 30 or 45 millimeters and up to 32 modules per station, the Simatic ET200AL offers a high IO quantity structure for a wide range of applications. The IO system is configured quickly and easily via the TIA Portal, and used in Profinet or Profibus networks. The wiring of the module has been made extremely simple: for example by means of a color-coded assignment of lines to interfaces, and the integrated mounting for cable ties. The plastic enclosure of the Simatic ET 200AL makes it especially suitable for mobile applications subject to sustained accelerations from 5 g up to a maximum of 10 g. The modules have electronic short-circuit protection, and restart automatically after a line interruption or exchange of modules.