AS-Interface module with push-in front connector.

Pepperl+Fuchs is setting a new and innovative standard for AS-Interface IP20 modules in the form of an easily accessible push-in connection at the front of the device. The crimped wire ends can be inserted directly into the push-in terminals. The entire wiring harness is guided downward, meaning there is no need for the upper cable ridge/cable duct. This not only provides a sophisticated solution for the switch cabinet wiring, but also saves on space and ensures clarity.

In switch boxes, modules featuring this connection can be mounted flush on the upper edge of a switch box, without impairing the installation. The transparent hinged cover, which can be snapped into place at multiple points, ensures a clear view through to the digit display at all times and enables the terminal functions to be color-coded internally. The terminals can be removed individually and are coded to prevent them from being mixed up, meaning devices can be replaced without any problems.

The IOs are displayed and diagnostics are performed centrally by means of backlit numbers. There is no need to assign labels to LEDs. This setup also ensures that information can be read even in dark conditions. Dual LEDs are used to indicate overload of an output on a channel-specific basis.

The terminal contacts for AS-i and AUX, which are bridged internally, achieve the full 8A, eliminating the need for double wire end ferrules at terminal points.

The sensor supply for the module can easily be switched between an internal supply from AS-i and an external supply through AUX. This reduces the range of devices required.

As a result of the reliable functional isolation between AS-i and AUX, decentralized system components can be safely deactivated using these modules by disabling AUX. This saves on costs and increases plant availability.

For those wanting increased efficiency when it comes to AS-Interface in the switch cabinet, the KE5 is the solution to choose.

Making AS-Interface be made even better.

Pepperl+Fuchs is setting a new and innovative standard for AS-Interface IP20 modules in the form of an easily accessible push-in connection at the front of the device. The crimped wire ends can be inserted directly into the push-in terminals. The entire wiring harness is guided downward, meaning there is no need for the upper cable ridge/cable duct. This not only provides a sophisticated solution for the switch cabinet wiring, but also saves on space and ensures clarity.

In switch boxes, modules featuring this connection can be mounted flush on the upper edge of a switch box, without impairing the installation. The transparent hinged cover, which can be snapped into place at multiple points, ensures a clear view through to the digit display at all times and enables the terminal functions to be color-coded internally. The terminals can be removed individually and are coded to prevent them from being mixed up, meaning devices can be replaced without any problems.

The IOs are displayed and diagnostics are performed centrally by means of backlit numbers. There is no need to assign labels to LEDs. This setup also ensures that information can be read even in dark conditions. Dual LEDs are used to indicate overload of an output on a channel-specific basis.

The terminal contacts for AS-i and AUX, which are bridged internally, achieve the full 8A, eliminating the need for double wire end ferrules at terminal points.

The sensor supply for the module can easily be switched between an internal supply from AS-i and an external supply through AUX. This reduces the range of devices required.

As a result of the reliable functional isolation between AS-i and AUX, decentralized system components can be safely deactivated using these modules by disabling AUX. This saves on costs and increases plant availability.

"For those wanting increased efficiency when it comes to AS-Interface in the switch cabinet, the KE5 is the solution to choose," said a spokesman.

• Pepperl+Fuchs products are marketed in Ireland by Insteco.

The safe installation solution for cable ducts

 G10 Safety - less is more

AS-Interface is the world’s most widely-used interface concept, which has simplified automation through quick connection technology via flat cables. The integration of safety on AS-i was a further important step towards an end-to-end solution which set new standards in terms of simplicity, clear overview and cost-efficiency.

Where other solutions require hardware, AS-i Safety impresses with reliable communication and intelligent-logic software. In installation technology, it is common to connect digital IOs via distributors or modules with several IO ports. In the case of safety solutions, superfluous parallel wiring or a parallel system environment often still predominate, which are rendered unnecessary with AS-i Safety.

Where safe components need to be implemented in PLe in a decentralized manner, either the AS-i interface can be integrated in the safe end device, or a complete, two-channel AS-i module can be used for connection. Many different AS-i integrated devices, or sufficient space in which to install the modules are necessary as a result. Pepperl+Fuchs convincingly puts an end to this dilemma with the world’s smallest G10 safety module featuring IP68/69k protection.

Any safety switch with dry contacts can be connected to this ultra-compact module in a modular fashion. Whereas the flat cable previously had to be fed out of the cable duct, direct installation within the cable duct is possible thanks to the unit’s low height of <23 mm. All that can be seen from outside is the round cable outlet to the safe end device. The one-piece housing enables flat cables to simply be fed through, contacted via round, gold-plated pins, while being tightly sealed at the same time, by means of a single screw.

The G10 safety module does not even require screw-mounting because it is so small and lightweight. It’s brilliantly simple and the smaller size and weight ensure a new level of extra functionality.

Controller application area extended

The AS-i master CM1243-2 communication module of the Siemens Industry Automation Division connects AS-Interface networks to the Simatic S7-1200 controller. The module significantly expands the application area of the controller. The AS-i master enables sensors and actuators to be easily and quickly integrated at the lowest field level both in the Simatic S7-1200 and in the TIA Portal. Configuration via the TIA Portal is comparably fast and user-friendly, similar to Profinet or Profibus networks.

The AS-i master CM1243-2 of the Siemens Industry Automation Division offers exceptionally easy and effective connection of the lowest field level to a higher-level controller and thus to the process level and MES level. The new AS-i master automatically organizes the data traffic on the connected line, handles not only signal scanning but also performs parameter setting, monitoring and diagnostic functions. CM1243-2 also offers additional integrated functions, such as the configuration of Sirius M200D AS-i motor starters without additional function blocks and access via a web interface. A total of 62 AS-i slaves or 992 inputs and outputs to an AS-i master can be connected. A standard power supply can be connected via the optional DCM 1271 data coupling module, enabling the realization of a low-cost AS-i Power24V network.


Configuration and commissioning of the AS-i master is especially easy to perform due to the integration of the new device in the TIA Portal. AS-i engineering is performed directly in the TIA Portal and is similar to configuration with Profibus and Profinet. No additional software is required. The TIA Portal shows the topology of the connected AS-i network with a click of the mouse. The user can conveniently adapt the parameters of the slaves on screen.

Modular safety system for safety-related applications expanded by AS-i

The Siemens Industry Automation Division has expanded its Sirius 3RK3 modular safety system by a new central module with AS-i (AS-Interface).

Sirius 3RK3 Advanced can be used as an AS-i safety monitor, and thus expands standard AS-i networks for safety-related applications. Typical applications include the collection of sensor signals in widely spaced plants, slave-to-slave communication in modular machine concepts, safety-related communication with plant components, or distributed switching-off of drives via the AS-Interface.

The new module is suitable for standard and safety-related signals on the AS-i bus, and has 12 independent AS-i enabling circuits. The quantity structure and functionality of the Sirius 3RK3 Advanced have been greatly increased compared to the Basic version. For example, nine expansion modules can now be connected instead of seven, and expanded cyclic data exchange is possible over Profibus. The functionality of the MSS ES engineering software has also been expanded. It is now possible to download the parameter settings and carry out online diagnostics of the unit over Profibus.

The macro function is also new with which function units can be combined in a library. The macros can be exported and imported, and thus reused in other projects.

Fieldbus gateways

The new AS-Interface gateways for Profibus-DP from Phoenix Contact set themselves apart by the fact that AS-Interface networks can be simply integrated into a Profibus-DP system. The devices have a rugged stainless steel housing with IP20 protection and have been designed for installation in control cabinets.

The gateways allow AS-Interface slaves to be operated with extended addressing and are specified according to the AS Interface specification 3.0. This means that they are downwards compatible to AS Interface slaves with older specifications. The new AS-Interface gateway for Profibus FLX ASI MA PB SF has a compact housing and can therefore be installed in control cabinets in an especially space-saving fashion.

The new AS-Interface gateway for Profibus FLX ASI MA 2 PB EF is designed as a double master to connect two AS Interface circuits and has an expanded functional scope. Among other things, Profibus settings for the gateway can be made and AS-Interface circuits configured – including user-friendly addressing of the AS-i slaves. Further, both AS-i circuits can be diagnosed in-depth via the gateway.