Wireless bridge kit.

Turns multi-day wireless deployments into plug-and-play installs.

Antaira Technologies, a global leader in industrial networking and wireless connectivity solutions, today announced The Airolinx Go MAX, from Antaira, is a preconfigured point-to-point (PtP) wireless bridge kit engineered to eliminate the guesswork, configuration time, and truck rolls that typically bog down outdoor wireless backhaul projects. Purpose-built for Security and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) applications, the Airolinx Go MAX pairs rugged, high-throughput hardware with Antaira's new Airolinx Go Studio software to compress what is normally a multi-hour commissioning process into minutes.

Security integrators and ITS engineers face a common problem: wireless links need to go up fast, perform predictably, and survive years of outdoor exposure without a service call. The Airolinx Go MAX kit is designed around that reality. Every kit ships as a matched pair of pre-paired radios. Once powered on, the link forms automatically, no controller, no IP scheme, and no on-site configuration is required to pass traffic.

Zero-touch bridging, video-grade throughput.
At the core of every Airolinx Go MAX kit is a transparent Layer 2 bridge architecture that requires no management IP to pass traffic — units simply extend the network as if a cable were run between sites. Each radio integrates a dual chain (2x2) 5GHz radio delivering wireless speeds up to 2400Mbps, paired with an integrated 19dBi panel antenna capable of reaching 6+ miles.

For camera and sensor backhaul specifically, the kit is tuned for video-grade performance across a 1.5–4 mile (2.4–6.5km) line-of-sight range, holding the higher, more consistent throughput that live video streams and time-sensitive ITS data demand.

Power comes via active 802.3at PoE input, simplifying cabling at both ends of the link, and the entire unit is housed in an IP67-rated enclosure rated for -40°C to 75°C (-40°F to 167°F) operation. The kit is engineered for permanent outdoor installation in the enclosures, gate posts, and roadside cabinets where Security and ITS hardware lives. 

Airolinx Go Studio commissioning software.
What sets the Airolinx Go MAX kit apart isn't just the radio hardware. It's the install experience engineered around it. Antaira's new Airolinx Go Studio software was built specifically to solve the problem of commissioning devices that ship without a management IP. Using Layer 2 discovery, Airolinx Go Studio finds and identifies units on the local segment before any IP addressing is configured, giving installers a guided workflow to:

• Discover and commission devices at Layer 2, even prior to IP assignment
• Set first-run security to lock down access before the link goes live
• Optimize RF channel selection to avoid interference and maximize throughput
• Align antennas in real time, using live signal feedback instead of guesswork
• Validate the link and generate a link test report on the spot — ready-made documentation for project close-out and client sign-off

For integrators, this turns antenna alignment and RF tuning from an experience-dependent art into a repeatable, verifiable process, and it hands over documentation that used to require a separate site visit or spreadsheet.

Scales from one link to a full network.
While the Airolinx Go MAX kit is preconfigured for point-to-point deployment out of the box, the architecture is built to grow:

• Add the optional AIROLINX-GOMAX-BASE-IP67-T high-speed base unit to convert a single link into a point-to-multipoint (PtMP) network
• Add additional AIROLINX-GOMAX-KIT-IP67-T preconfigured kits to expand coverage across more sites without re-engineering the network

This lets integrators start with a single camera or intersection link and scale up to a distributed Security or ITS network using the same hardware family and the same Airolinx Go Studio workflow.

Every Airolinx Go MAX kit is backed by a 5-year warranty, reinforcing Antaira's commitment to hardware that performs in the harshest outdoor environments, from roadside heat to winter cold, without the premature failures that drive up total cost of ownership.

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@AntairaTech @OConnell_PR #PAuto #Safety #Transportation

3D industrial applications tool.

Comprehensive portfolio allows engineers to explore solutions within an immersive 3D landscape.

The launch of a 3D Industrial Applications Tool designed to provide customers with an immersive and intuitive way to navigate through realistic industrial settings and see TE's products in action within the various environments has been announced.

"The latest 3D tool is designed to be an intuitive journey that allows users to explore TE solutions through familiar applications and terminology, bridging the gap between their needs and our comprehensive portfolio," said Vincent Menager, Integrated Marketing Analyst, TE Connectivity. "It's not just a selection guide; it's a gateway to understanding how TE's solutions can be integrated into our customers’ designs and processes."

The platform is consolidated around nine focus applications:

• Automation Control — Automation Sensors — Networking Devices
• Motion & Drives — Robotics & Warehouse Automation — Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment
• BESS — EV Charging — Climate Solutions

With approximately 53 industrial applications and more than 120 different product cards, users can easily find TE products in action and access 3D representations, images, videos and links to web pages.

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@ttiinc @TEConnectivity #PAuto #TandM

Robotics need industrial networks.

Robots need accessories to work efficiently. But what’s the easiest way to connect the accessories to factory networks? 

The number of industrial robots operating in factories worldwide continues to rise. To use robots efficiently and maximize productivity, companies attach robot accessories to the robots to enable the robots to perform different tasks.

RSP (Robot System Products) specializes in developing, producing, and installing the required robot accessories. When theystarted to develop a new range of tool changers, they needed to meet their customers’ expectations and provide a tool changer capable of connecting to the factory networks. However, developing the required networking technology is a complicated task outside RSP’s expertise. Anybus solutions from HMS provided the solution. HMS helped embed an Anybus communication interface into the tool changer enabling connectivity with the factory’s network and allowing RSP to remain focused on making world-leading robot accessories.

The Moduflex tool changer is attached to the
robot so the robot to changes tools quickly & safely.

 (RSP) specialize in making industrial robot accessories that are used in factories worldwide. “Our strength lies in the specialized knowledge gained from working with industrial robotics for almost 20 years,” explains Henrik Hofström, marketing manager at RSP. “This specialized knowledge enables us to make robust, versatile industrial robot accessories that help our customers improve robot flexibility and increase productivity.”

Challenge.
The requirements for a smart and connected industry affect every step in the automation process. So, when RSP was developing its Moduflex series, a new line of tool changers specially designed to carry heavy payloads, they needed to move with the times and provide a modern tool changer that could connect to automation networks. However, developing the required networking technology is neither easy nor what has made RSP a global leader. “We’re experts in robotics, not industrial networking,” explains Mats Thunell, senior engineer at RSP. “We want to remain focused on robotics, so we didn’t want to invest the time and money to develop an in-house networking solution as that’s outside our area of expertise. Fortunately, we found a good solution with Anybus that allows both companies to focus on what they’re good at, Robotics for us and networking for Anybus.” 

RSP’s networking requirements: Robots move freely within the factory, so robot accessories must be as compact and cable-free as possible. To maintain the tool changer’s compact form, RSP preferred to embed the networking technology within the tool changer. RSP also needed a data communication interface that allowed easy and reliable connectivity to any factory system, regardless of the network protocol.

The Anybus CompactCom matched all the networking requirements.

To maintain the tool changer’s compact size and avoid extra cables, RSP chose the Anybus CompactCom B40. The Anybus CompactCom B40 was attached to the tool changer’s printed circuit board (PCB).

There’s a CompactCom for any major Fieldbus or industrial Ethernet, and it’s easy to swap one CompactCom for another CompactCom, enabling RSP to connect to any factory system, regardless of the network protocol. As Henrik observes, this opens the possibility of expanding into new markets. “We’ve started with PROFINET, but we can target new markets as there’s an Anybus CompactCom for all major networks.”

Anybus CompactCom is ready-made and easy to install, reducing the time to market for new products. The award-winning Anybus NP40 industrial network processor ensures that the CompactCom meets demanding performance, reliability, and security requirements. “We would not have been able to develop the Moduflex series this easily without the Anybus CompactCom,” concludes Henrik. “The Anybus CompactCom is a great product. It provides reliable industrial network communication and is easy to use.”

@hmsnetworks @mepaxIntPR #RSP #Robotics #Communications

Bringing tablets to the factory floor.

The new HT4P Safety Commander, developed by IDEC Corporation, is building on the success of the HT3P by incorporating end user feature requests for additional networking and operator interface functionality. The unit is an ergonomic device enabling users to securely hold and protect a human-machine interface (HMI) tablet, while providing power, networking, and hardwired emergency stop (e-stop) and other operator interface devices. OEMs and automation designers can now provide flexible and safety-rated operator interface options for equipment, robotics, collaborative robots, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and other manufacturing system applications.

Industrial operations personnel have long been constrained to using specialized HMIs mounted on fixed control panels, or dedicated teaching pendants. Modern consumer-grade tablets offer a better visualization solution, especially for data-intensive industrial internet of things (IIoT) applications, and they can also offer instant viewing of drawings and manuals, videoconferencing, and reports. But they simply are not made to withstand industrial conditions.

Now, the Safety Commander family of devices provides a ruggedized way of deploying HMI tablets to deliver many convenience and productivity benefits, in an arrangement designed for use on the factory floor.

Enhanced HMI options.
The original HT3P Safety Commander provided a lockable, ergonomic, and sturdy way to secure HMI tablets. It included charging provisions, along with a hardwired e-stop and a 3-position hold-to-run enabling switch, so designs could integrate tablets in compliance with ISO/IEC safety standards and requirements. Many OEMs and end users have used this device to great advantage, and some have requested even more features to expand its usefulness for their applications. 

The new HT4P Safety Commander builds on these capabilities and has been enhanced with:
+ Larger size: The HT4P can now hold tablets ranging from 10-inch all the way up to a 13-inch (whereas the HT3P accepts 8- to 11-inch tablets) using adjustable grippers, so users can take advantage of more display real-estate and greater CPU processing speeds. In most cases, the larger the tablet screen size, the greater the price advantage compared to using a traditional fixed-mounted touch panel.
+ Wired networking: While designers may still choose to use Wi-Fi for their tablet, there are many applications where electrical noise or other conditions make wireless unsuitable. Now, designers have the option with the HT4P to use an on-board wired LAN combined with a USB-PD connection, providing stable communications and 30W power charging simultaneously. A USB/RS232C/RS422 converter option is also available. External shielded cables with connectors are available for the HT4P in lengths of 5m, 10m, 15m, and 20m, making them suitable for almost any application.
+ Hardwired non-safety switches: The HT4P now has three on-board mounting positions capable of providing standard or custom arrangements of hardwired pushbuttons, illuminated pushbuttons, and selector switches. In addition, a guard is available to protect against inadvertent operation of the e-stop button.

The HT4P maintains other key features, such as the ability for the tablet to be used in vertical/portrait or horizontal/landscape orientations, by both left- and right-handed users, with a hand or shoulder strap to minimize fatigue. A wall-mountable bracket is available, and the device can also be placed on a desk for easy viewing. The device has been tested for drop resistance up to 1.2m, and it offers IP54 protection from water splashes, dust, and dirt. It operates in temperatures ranging from -10DegC up to +35DegC or more, depending on configuration. Clean room compatible parts are also available.

The IDEC HT4P Safety Commander lets OEMs and equipment designers take advantage of modern and familiar tablets acting as HMIs located close to machinery, and it eliminates the need to develop or use dedicated and less flexible devices.

@IDECUSA #PAuto #HMI

Avoiding wire pulling!

Wire pulling is not always possible or ideal in every industrial application. In situations where it’s hard to wire or reconfigure industrial operations to ensure time to market, industrial wireless LANs (WLANs) provide an ideal alternative to traditional wired Ethernet LANs. Indeed, recent advances in wireless technology have contributed to industrial WLANs becoming commonplace solutions in various applications, such as automotive, logistics, and transportation systems. These industrial applications usually require automated equipment that is constantly moving and difficult to wire. The growing adoption of industrial WLANs enables these systems to be connected for enhanced operational efficiency.

Those interested in learning more about industrial net-working may download the Moxa E-book: "Industrial Connectivity and Networking 101".

With so much potential waiting to be unlocked by cutting free from wires, it’s no wonder the popularity of industrial WLAN applications has grown so rapidly in recent years. For instance, you can use WLAN technology to deploy automated forklifts in a smart warehouse or overhead transfer system to increase efficiency and productivity, making the best use of limited manpower. As endless as the possibilities may be, going wireless isn’t always a clear-cut choice. Even if you’ve decided on a wireless LAN, how do you choose the right solution for your industrial requirements?

Choosing Industrial WLAN Devices.
Without a doubt, industrial wireless LANs can extend connectivity beyond traditional physical limits and boundaries, unleashing new possibilities. However, industrial engineers may hesitate to embrace wireless applications due to a number of different hurdles. How do you confirm that the network is connected when wireless connections are invisible? How do you troubleshoot when these invisible connections go down? Such concerns are relevant more than ever since IIoT applications require systems to be connected to one converged network. Any single point of failure can be fatal for the entire network.

Besides thoroughly planning your wireless network design, here are three key criteria for choosing industrial WLAN devices and suggestions for how to address common concerns.

Wi-Fi Availability is First Priority.
Industrial WLAN devices require specialized technology to establish and ensure reliable wireless networks. This is because wireless connection quality can be affected by many different issues, such as radio frequency (RF), interference in an industrial environment, incorrect antenna configuration, signal strength over long distances, and so on. Failing to properly design your system to avoid such issues can result in unstable communications, or even permanently damage your devices and cause a complete shutdown of your system. 

In addition, constantly moving equipment requires extra attention to roaming requirements. For example, even if you have a strong wireless signal on your AP, moving devices to a different location may require a greater transmission signal, resulting in slower Wi-Fi connections or even network failures. Since slow or failed connections are unacceptable in industrial environments, consider advanced wireless roaming technologies that can achieve millisecond-level roaming to ensure reliable wireless connections.

Minimal Effort on Wi-Fi Settings.
Whether you are implementing a wireless network for the first time or have numerous WLAN deployments under your belt, you always want to choose easy-to-use solutions. Although wireless connections make constructing network infrastructure more convenient, network setup and long-term maintenance can also have a big impact on user experience. When it comes to basic device configuration during the initial setup stage for deploying or maintaining a network, a powerful software tool can save you significant time and effort. Once the networks are up and running, a software tool that can configure all your devices easily and find the best Wi-Fi channels to use in your environment with a click of a mouse can help keep your wireless connections stable and take the headache out of network administration.

Protocol Compatibility.
Many WLAN devices are deployed in various industrial applications, including automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) and forklifts in logistics systems. These systems require sophisticated devices such as sensors and PLCs to determine the location of moving vehicles. It is essential to ensure seamless communications between PLCs and control centers for safety reasons. When industrial equipment such as PLCs connect to a wireless client, a common issue is whether the wireless client device can support certain industrial protocols, such as PROFINET. To ensure seamless industrial protocol communications, consider the following requirements:

1. Layer 2 transparency over WLAN
2. Communication latency that meets your application requirements

These three key criteria have been distilled from many years of experience in enabling industrial connectivity for customers around the world.

@MoxaInc @OConnellPR  #Pauto #IIoT #Networking101

Patent granted for remote resetting.

Antaira Technologies has been granted a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its innovative Power Remote Reset Technology (PRRT) that allows IT staff to remotely reboot and reset a connected powered device through a local Antaira copper-to-fiber media converter.

The Antaira IMP-C1000-SFP-bt gigabit Ethernet-to-Fiber media converter is one of the company's industrial networking devices equipped with patented Power Remote Rest Technology (PRRT)

The time-saving technology, which resides on several Antaira IEEE802.3bt PoE media converters and unmanaged switches, empowers technicians to immediately resolve device function interruptions without traveling to a remote site. By doing so, PRRT reduces device downtime, and increases the reliability of remotely located critical systems and applications, such as security cameras, wireless access points, or IP phones. PRRT is especially valuable when an IT team works remotely or supports a large geographical area.

"If a powered device is remote or in a building equipment room, gaining access might pose a challenge and will likely require sending a technician out to the site to perform a power cycle,” said Carl Stelling, Vice President of Antaira Technologies. “Our patented PRRT technology saves the money, time and inconvenience of traveling to the remote site to troubleshoot a connected powered device, which may be hours away. It is incredibly gratifying to be awarded a patent that formally recognizes our innovation and leadership."

Antaira PRRT is an important part of the company’s integrated patent portfolio and supports the continued development of its suite of industrial networking solutions.

@AntairaTech @uspto #Pauto #Networking #HMI

Networking to help futureproof industrial automation.

The EDS-4000/G4000 Series Ethernet Switches from Moxa, includes 68 models that will help Moxa’s customers build futureproof industrial networks to strengthen operational resilience in industrial spaces such as power, transportation, maritime, and factory automation.

According to IDC’s Worldwide IT/OT Convergence 2022 Predictions, by 2024, 75% of new operational applications deployed at the edge will leverage containerization to enable a more open and composable architecture that is necessary for resilient operations. As industrial automation applications continue to evolve, OT architectures require enhanced networking capabilities and network security.

"Recently, we observed that our customers find it more challenging to connect their devices while fulfilling a variety of requirements for critical infrastructure," said Gary Chang, Product Manager at Moxa Networking Co. Ltd. "Critical infrastructure requires advanced networking solutions that strengthen operational resilience and futureproof networks. Our EDS-4000/G4000 Series portfolio of switches transforms the networking-evolved concept into tangible networking capabilities in order to empower our customers to build secure, reliable, and high-bandwidth industrial networks with ease."

Evolved Networking Solutions That Strengthen Operational Resilience
While OT/IT convergence is accelerating, enhanced network security, high performance, strong reliability, and advanced usability become paramount to building next-generation industrial networks that strengthen operational resilience.

• Industry-leading Network Security: The EDS-4000/G4000 Series is the world's first IEC 62443-4-2 certified Ethernet switches to be certified by IECEE due to the built-in hardened security that was developed by following the stringent software development lifecycle described in the standard. Along with Moxa’s extensive network security portfolio, Moxa helps create a secure network foundation to safeguard and futureproof industrial operations.
• Unprecedented Performance for Mass Deployments: As the number of connected devices in industrial operations grows exponentially, the EDS-4000/G4000 Series provides multiple interface combinations with up to 14 ports and a range of options including fast Ethernet, Gigabit, 2.5GbE uplinks, SFP, and IEEE 802.3bt PoE connectivity. This enables customers to connect more devices especially in applications such as intelligent transportation systems that require high-power and high-bandwidth networking.
• Multiple Industrial Certifications: The EDS-4000/G4000 Series is certified for NEMA TS2, EN 50121-4, IEC 61850-3/IEEE 1613, DNV, ATEX Zone 2, Class I Division 2, to fulfill the needs of a wide variety of industrial applications. The EDS-4000/G4000 Series also features Turbo Ring and Turbo Chain fast network recovery to ensure smooth operations. Advanced Usability: The improved web GUI provides a more intuitive way for users to perform configurations and network management. The rotatable power module offers flexibility to field engineers when they are installing devices and maintaining the network. In addition, the LED indicators on two sides of the device help engineers easily identify the status of networking devices, making their job easier.

Customer Testimonial "We particularly appreciated the intuitive user interface, the innovative mechanical design with the rotatable power supply module, and the robust DIN-rail mounting kit. The EDS-4000/G4000 Series gives us more confidence to provide futureproof, robust, and secure industrial automation and navigation solutions to our customers on their digital transformation journeys," said Christian M. Skytte, Head of Product Management, Automation, at Wärtsilä Lyngsø Marine A/S.

@MoxaInc @OConnell_PR #PAuto #Communications

Connecting IO and Wi-Fi sensors to energy networks.

HMS Networks is now expanding its Ixxat® SG-gateway series for networking of energy components. Two new multi-IO versions allow traditional IO-sensors as well as sensors or devices in Wi-Fi networks to be connected to energy systems using IEC 61850 and IEC 60870. Users benefit from direct and seamless access to sensor data from the control room, as well as IIoT capabilities for monitoring, maintenance and forecasting purposes.

Enabling digital energy control

Digitalization of energy technology is important for mastering the future challenges of sustainable energy supply. With Ixxat SG-gateways, device manufacturers, system integrators, energy suppliers and network operators get instant status information into the control room through direct access to plant data from various sources. This enables efficient system operation, fast reactions to network disturbances, as well as remote monitoring and maintenance of devices and systems. The compact Ixxat SG-gateways are especially suitable for retrofitting plants and digitalization of substations, and are used in many areas of energy automation, e.g. in power plants and at large energy consumers.

All-in-one solution with all the needed connectivity
Thanks to the wide range of interfaces and protocols supported, Ixxat SG-gateways remove the need for installing several separate gateways, such as fieldbus gateways, sensor gateways, IoT gateways and firewalls. Adding to the existing support for IEC 61850, IEC 60870, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, MQTT and 4G, the two new SG-gateways feature Multi-IO and Wi-Fi capabilities (WLAN according to IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n). With this, traditional as well as wireless sensors can be easily connected to control rooms and cloud systems. Besides RS232/485 and Ethernet, eight digital inputs/outputs (24 V DC) and eight analog inputs (0-20 mA or 0-10 V) are available for direct sensor connection, all switchable via software.

Example applications are temperature monitoring of high-voltage lines via Wi-Fi using Modbus TCP, pressure and density measurement of cooling liquids using Modbus RTU, and room temperature or humidity measurement in buildings using analog or digital IO.

Efficient and secure access to all data
The acquired data from sensors, fieldbuses and energy protocols is made available by the SG-gateway in control room applications, SCADA and can also be integrated into the user’s cloud system of choice. For direct use in a targeted system and protocol, the data can be pre-processed by the SG-gateway using the integrated WEBPLC. Data security is ensured via a local firewall, access management and via encrypted data transmission. Depending on the used protocol, this is done either with openVPN or TLS 1.3.

@HMSIxxat @hmsnetworks @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Cybersecurity chief apointed.

SolutionsPT has bolstered its cyber security offering with the appointment of cyber security and network expert, Lee Carter.

Lee Carter

“I was attracted to the role at SolutionsPT because it has a suite of leading edge products such as Claroty that are used by some of the most well-known companies around the world and - crucially - it is capable of integrating those product sets to ensure that security, backup, monitoring and availability products all operate in total harmony,” he said.

Previously a Principal Cyber Security Engineer at systems integrator, Capula, Lee has extensive experience of the security requirements of specialist environments such as power generation, utilities and nuclear.

In his new role as Industrial Network and Cyber Security Product Manager Lee will provide consultancy and technical direction to SolutionsPT’s varied client base, carefully monitoring trends in the cyber security space to ensure SolutionsPT’s cyber security offering remains at the cutting edge.

As part of its focus on the growing cyber security market, SolutionsPT has recently added Claroty, the leader in Operational Technology Cyber Security, to its product suite.

Founded and expressly built for OT networks, Claroty delivers Continuous Threat Detection (CTD), providing visibility and vulnerability monitoring, as well as leveraging behavioural analysis techniques to provide on-going real-time threat detection. Users can proactively manage remote access and get an enterprise wide view of their networks, bringing multiple sites or plant locations into one single operations view.

 @SolutionsPT  #PAuto #Cybersecurity

Collaborating Innovator in network configuration.

ADLINK is now a Collaborating Innovator of the Open Networking Foundation (ONF) operator-led consortium. ADLINK and its broad range of strategic ecosystem partners continue to play an increasingly important role in influential industry consortiums such as ONF, Central Office Re-architected as a Datacenter (CORD) and Open Compute Project (OCP) by working together on advanced, open architecture business initiatives.

As an open, collaborative, non-profit consortium driving transformation of network infrastructure and carrier business models, the ONF serves as the umbrella for a number of projects, building solutions by leveraging network disaggregation, white box economics, open source software and software-defined standards to revolutionize the carrier industry. Working closely with leading communication service providers and equipment vendors on various open source projects, the ONF leverages its released reference designs to facilitate the roll-out of next-generation networking solutions, significantly driving down both Capex and Opex for the whole ecosystem and opening up enormous business opportunities for new services.

“Telecom operators are driving solutions based on open hardware and software architectures, enabling infrastructure for quick time-to-revenue while lowering TCO for emerging Edge and 5G deployment. At this inflection point, the ONF is well positioned to catalyze a transformation of the networking industry with its newly established strategic plan,” said Jeff Sharpe, ADLINK director of product strategy and business development for networking and communications. “We are very excited to join and contribute to ONF, as we will be able to leverage the ONF’s community resources and reference designs to develop next-generation networking solutions. Our ultimate goal is to bring ADLINK’s innovation and unique value proposition for network transformation to the carrier industry.”

ADLINK began its focus on open architecture by becoming a major contributor to the OCP more than five years ago. At the ONF, ADLINK will leverage its Open Compute Carrier-grade Edge Reference Architecture (OCCERA), OCP and GPU-based solutions to develop next-generation networking and communications platforms, enabling use cases such as Advanced Multi-access Edge Computing (AMEC), universal Customer Premises Equipment (uCPE) and extremely low-latency Edge Compute platforms for 5G networks. ADLINK’s solutions will effectively address the requirements for low-latency, high-bandwidth and compute-intensive applications driven by the needs of security, deep packet inspection (DPI), Edge Computing, virtual network functions (VNF), 5G evolution and revenue producing solutions for operators.

As a leading ODM, ADLINK is an ideal contributor to the ONF-envisioned business model with its high quality design and manufacturing capabilities, producing cost-effective COTS/custom solutions with reduced time-to-market. ADLINK offers design services in every major geographic region, which benefits customers with increased responsiveness, short delivery lead-time and ease of doing business locally. ADLINK also ensures best practices in product lifecycle management by leveraging its long-standing strategic partnerships with major processor and software vendors.

@ADLINK_Tech  #PAuto @ONF_SDN

Networking in Japanese paper plants.

Yokogawa Solution Service Corporation, has completed the installation of a software-defined networking (SDN) solution at four paper plants in Japan that are operated by group companies of Oji Holdings Corporation (the Oji Group). This is the first-ever plant-wide implementation in Japan (based on a March 2017 Yokogawa market survey) of SDN, a software-based technology that enables the creation of virtual network environments. As part of this undertaking, Yokogawa assessed the company’s IT infrastructure, including its existing networks, and designed and deployed SDN-based networks at these facilities.

With conventional plant networks, network devices (i.e., routers, firewalls) must be installed and configured for each individual application, location, and facility. The software-based SDN technology enables flexible implementation of virtual networks for each individual application, linking network devices using the same physical network. This facilitates the integrated management, implementation, and reconfiguration of networks. Also, this helps to reduce the required number of network devices and the amount of wiring that needs to be performed, saving both operating and management costs. Furthermore, the visualization of network status leads to enhanced security. Problems can be easily identified, and network operators can remotely shut down specific segments of the plant network in the event of an emergency.

Yokogawa won this order because the customer highly valued its solid track record in delivering production control systems, wealth of production site knowledge, and experience in providing solutions that lead to enhanced productivity, safety, and product quality.

For this project, they chose to use a proven SDN network device solution, NEC Corporation’s UNIVERGE PF series of controllers and switches. While minimizing impact on plant operations is usually difficult when replacing IT infrastructure, Yokogawa was able to do this by leveraging its abundant experience and knowledge of production sites. At each of this customer’s plants, Yokogawa assessed their IT infrastructure, including existing networks, and based on this assessment then designed and deployed its SDN technology solution.

The company is also providing on a trial basis a security management service that monitors the status and health of the networks throughout these plants. While enabling timely preventive measures that help to maintain the health of the networks in these plants, this service also ensures that prompt actions can be taken in the event of an emergency.

In plants around the world, there is an increasing need to improve productivity, safety, and maintenance efficiency, and this is being achieved through the introduction of Industrial IoT (IIoT) technology. Networks help to create new value by connecting various types of devices, but it is essential to be able to flexibly change their configuration, quickly respond to surges in data volume, and ensure more secure operations. For the optimal implementation of IIoT technology, attention is now increasingly turning to the use of SDN technology in plant IT infrastructure. This also will help company IT departments manage the IT infrastructure at their plants in a more integrated manner.
Capitalizing on its production site know-how, Yokogawa will continue in its endeavors to introduce SDN and other cutting-edge technologies that will enable the realization of smarter plant IT infrastructure.

@YokogawaIA  #PAuto #Japan

Secure remote connections to the network edge.

WeConnect delivers easy to use and reliable connections to industrial equipment.

WeConnect is a new solution that Westermo has developed to allow connectivity to remote networks using the internet. Clearly security and reliability are critical for this type of service, but even more important is the ease of use as the beneficiary of this service will not necessarily be an IT expert.

WeConnect creates a secure network between remote assets using strong encryption techniques, typically found in the financial sector. Using it a PC, smartphone, or tablet becomes part of the remote network as if it were actually at that location. For example, a service engineer can use the everyday industrial software application and connect from the desk to the PLC, HMI or any other type of device that is on the remote network. With an easy way to remotely access devices, time, money and energy on costly site visits can be saved.

Set-up is easy and just requires an internet connection of any kind. It does not matter what type of SIM-card is available, nor if there is ADSL, VDSL2, cellular or even a satellite connection; as long as the internet can be reached. As the Westermo routers create the connection to WeConnect themselves there is no need to have any public IP addresses, or create holes in the external firewall; perfect if your remote asset is on an existing factory Ethernet network.

They have designed WeConnect specifically for the industrial market and one example of this is the ability of WeConnect to cope with identical IP addresses on every remote site. The user just clicks on the active site in the web-portal and the relevant traffic from the user’s PC will be forwarded to that particular site. This setting is unique per user so that multiple technicians can be logged into different, or the same, sites.

With WeConnect Westermo offers reliable connectivity when it is needed. Part of this is due to the fact that it uses one of the most reliable global platform providers on the market, making it a very scalable and multi-resilient solution. The other benefit of this solution is that it can be configured to provide separate secure networks for each customer with no IP address restrictions or risk of data leakage from another user.

Adding to the reliability and Made Easy concept is the integrated support that Westermo has developed for WeConnect in its robust industrial routers such as the Lynx, RedFox, Falcon, MRD-series and ADSL-350. When using WeConnect with any one of these Westermo products installation is easy and yet the highest levels of security are maintained.

@Westermo  #PAuto 

#HM16 Efficient automation, sustainable service, and integrated industry highlighted.

Baumüller Group will showcase components, systems, and services connected to automation, system networking, and mobile drive technology from April 25-29, 2016 at booth K 17 in hall 14. Integrated industry from component to maintenance.

The Hannover Messe 2016 focuses again on integrated industry. Matching the trade fair focus, Baumüller presents Industry 4.0-capable components, network-capable systems, software solutions, and integrated service concepts. Innovations at the Nuremberg automation provider focus on complete solutions for the integration of production processes into cross-business networks. As company group, Baumüller covers complete system solutions with life cycle service, from project planning, engineering, and commissioning to maintenance, repair, and relocation. “Consideration of the complete life cycle is particularly important when discussing integrated industry,” says Andreas Baumüller, Managing Partner at Baumüller.

The clear visualization for handling systems renders long training times unnecessary and accelerates the operating process

Complete system live

As example of such a complete system, a handling system is presented live at the trade fair booth. Visitors can convince themselves of the intuitive operation, the new Baumüller visualization, and the advantages of web capability and open interfaces directly at the machine. The unit can be integrated into nearly any machine type. With extremely short commissioning times, it is suitable for new as well as existing machines. In the service area, Baumüller offers networking via sensor-based machine monitoring that can be coupled by machinery manufacturers or users with different service models. This solution is also presented at the trade fair booth as part of the overall package.

In the system area, the focus is on component developments as well as innovations in software and visualization. Standardized databases, a wide range of field buses and open interfaces are the basis for flexible and efficient communication and networking. In addition to a wide range of field buses and matching software modules, Baumüller therefore offers Engineering Framework ProMaster as very user-friendly tool for machine programming and monitoring as well as intelligent data storage.

Visualization and simulation make life easier

With complete function packages, e.g., for handling units, Baumüller also takes into account the increased importance of machine modularization and flexibility. Pre-configured packages are available to the machinery manufacturer from drive to visualization. These can be integrated into existing systems and operated platform-independently via all mobile terminals thanks to web-based visualization. The machinery manufacturer can use simulation techniques to simulate complete motion profiles. This saves complicated calculations, prevents surprises during commissioning, and thus saves time and costs.

News

In the component area at the control level, Baumüller presents the new industrial PCs of the b maXX PC004 series that offer in combination with the new HMI a powerful and scalable solution for all control tasks. The system is compatible with the remaining Baumüller portfolio. It can be used as master control for all machines or as slave in existing Ethernet-based systems.

In the power electronics area, the Nuremberg manufacturer presents their new multi-axis controllers. The new b maXX 5800 can control up to six axes independently from one another. For example, gantry axes can be controlled within one computer unit. This means that this solution does not require field bus communication between the axes and enables extremely fast communication and response times of 62.5 µs. The dead times of field bus communication as well as following errors are omitted and dynamics and accuracy increased.

Using the new version of three phase current synchronous motors DSC 135, Baumüller presents a particularly compact and quick-accelerating drive. The new DSC was equipped with a special mount for axial process force compensation, high overload capability, and a mechanical interface for spindle connection in particular for the plastic industry and here as ejector drive. In addition to the surface-cooled variant, the motor is available with integrated liquid cooling for maximum power density and compactness. The DSD2 56-100 servomotors and DST2 135-400 high-torque motors are newly available with oil cooling. With that, Baumüller offers an alternative to water cooling, which should be of particular interest for machines with hydraulic system, as the cooling medium is then already in the system and no additional costs are incurred.

Diversely mobile

For manufacturers of mobile machines, vehicles, and ships, Baumüller presents environmentally friendly and cost-optimized drives from 400 W to 280 kW at the Hannover Messe 2016. Among others, the DSE synchronous motor is presented, which offers a high power density thanks to specially arranged, buried magnets. This and the flexibility of the built-in motor during vehicle integration, make the DSE a suitable mobile drive for the power range up to 15 kW and a speed range up to 9000 rpm. With their solutions for hybrid ship drives, Baumüller enables fuel and emission savings and better maneuverability. The DTS2 high-torque motors are equipped with so-called wing mounts for perfect integration into the ship construction.

@BM_Services #PAuto 

Graduates join international trainee programme.

Three university graduates have begun a year-long internship at Westermo as part of its ambitious new international trainee programme, which aims to advance the skillset of participants and attract talented people to the company.

Elena Bersanini, Manne Hellsing and Khawar Naeem are the first trainees taking part in the programme. During their internship they will experience a number of different roles within various departments at Westermo’s facilities in Sweden and some of its other international offices. This will provide them with a valuable insight into how the company operates.

LtoR: Elena Bersanini, Manne Hellsing and Khawar Naeem.

Elena Bersanini is from Milan, Italy, and has an MSc degree in international business administration and management. She has previously worked in India and Britain, and was most recently a marketing manager in her home country.

Manne Hellsing hails from Strömsholm in Sweden and recently finished a master’s degree in engineering at Mälardalen University in Eskilstuna.

Khawar Naeem, from Islamabad, Pakistan, has a master’s degree in telecommunication engineering and has worked in Pakistan, Sweden and Oman.

“The twelve-month international trainee programme is a mix of theory and practice,” said Anne-Li Hallblad, HR manager at Westermo. “During the year they will perform a number of jobs, and receive training and guidance to help them develop. After they have completed the training programme, a suitable position will be found for them within the Westermo organisation.”

Westermo provides reliable, resilient and secure industrial networking technology for critical applications around the world. The internship will show the trainees how the company develops, produces and markets this technology. As part of their learning process, the trainees will take courses in sales presentation techniques, product education, project management and leadership, among other subjects. Each trainee is assigned a mentor, who will act as their support and sounding board throughout the programme.

Westermo hopes that the programme will enable trainees to advance at an accelerated pace, with the goal of them becoming suitable for leading positions, therefore bolstering an already strong workforce.

“We will encourage the trainees to step out of their comfort zone and try new things in new areas,” Hallblad said. “The idea is for the trainees to be challenged and stretched, and for them to grow.”

The first three trainees on the programme have high hopes that it will put them on the path to a fulfilling and enjoyable career with Westermo. Manne Hellsing said: “I think the trainee programme will be interesting, challenging, and a huge opportunity for me to develop professionally. I hope that it will be the start of a successful, long-term collaboration.”

“We are delighted with the quality of the three initial trainees, but we are always looking for additional candidates who enjoy new challenges, and who are good at taking on board information, analysing problems and coming up with solutions,” Hallblad said. “We’re looking for people with effective communication skills and the drive, confidence and resilience to get things done.”

@Westermo #PAuto 

Intelligent Networking Business Unit finalised.

Taiwanese industrial computing manufacturer Advantech has completed its acquisition of privately-held industrial intelligent networking specialist B+B SmartWorx for the US$99.85 million agreement announced late last year. Ottawa, IL-based B+B will continue to be led by its current management team, operating as Advantech B+B SmartWorx, and will lead Advantech’s new Intelligent Networking Business Sector in developing smart networking products as part of the company’s Global Industrial IoT Business Group.

The two companies’ complementary product lines brought them together often over the last decade to collaborate on industrial connectivity projects, so the combination of the two companies felt natural. The merger creates a $1.3 billion company with approximately 7,600 employees worldwide.

“B+B has undergone a transformation over recent years, acquiring several companies itself and developing technologies that bring ‘intelligence to the network edge’ to address evolving needs in the Industrial IoT (IIoT) market,” said B+B CEO Jerry O’Gorman. “We are pleased to join forces with Advantech, a global leader who shares our strategic view of the future.”

With B+B SmartWorx now a part of its portfolio, Advantech said it aims to accelerate its growth in industrial network connectivity-related products. The company will leverage B+B’s established branding, product lines, engineering teams and sales channels in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East, and it will also begin selling B+B’s device connectivity products, cellular routers, gateways and the Wzzard wireless sensing platform into Asia. Products will retain B+B branding, bolstered by Advantech’s name recognition, and sold as “B+B SmartWorx powered by Advantech.”

Advantech chairman KC Liu explained that Advantech views this acquisition more as a merger, seeing value in all of B+B’s networking products from wired networking and fiber infrastructure to wireless connectivity. “B+B has in particular struck a nerve with its Wzzard wireless sensing system which satisfies enterprise IT’s desire to receive data from the field, and overcomes field OT’s (operational technology) fear of disruption, by creating ‘overlay networks’ that leave existing programming, processes and people in place,” said Liu.

B+B’s Wzzard together with its routers and gateways complement Advantech’s own WISE wireless sensing platform, and company engineers will be developing solutions leveraging the strength of both platforms.

@smartworxbb #PAuto

Network management system simplifies industrial network monitoring.

With its new V13 Sinema Server software release, Siemens is simplifying the monitoring of industrial networks. The new software automatically detects all Profinet and Ethernet devices within a network, and enables a clear visualization of them in a web browser. Version 13 is also able to directly read out information from Simatic Controllers (Simatic S7-300 / S7-400) and connected Profinet devices. This affords maintenance personnel an overview of all device conditions and connections at any time, allowing even extensive networks encompassing up to 50,000 nodes to be efficiently monitored. The software is designed to enable the early detection of potential faults as the basis for initiating preventive action and so increasing availability. Sinema Server V13 is designed for manufacturing companies as well as the process industry.

Device data is evaluated either using the "Simple Network Management Protocol" (SNMP) or by using Profinet mechanisms by directly accessing devices. The result: precise and non-proprietary evaluation of data for device identification (Identification and Maintenance/I&M data) as well as diagnostic data. Sinema Server is also designed to deal with the special demands of field automation: the software supports dynamic topologies, for instance "tool changers", as well as detailed configuration of various redundancy protocols used in the field of automation. In addition, logical subnetworks (Virtual Local Area Network) and the Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) are read out, diagnosed and clearly visualized to allow transparent diagnostics in areas where IT networks and automation are connected.

The acquired data relating to the network and the automation application is saved in a long-term archive and can also be subsequently pictured in reports. This enables to determine the root causes of past events to be determined and possible future sources of error prevented. The obtained network diagnosis can be seamlessly integrated into HMI/SCADA systems (such as Simatic WinCC, Simatic PCS7) by using OPC (in particular OPC UA) and web mechanisms.
The overall status of major networks (up to 100 servers with up to 500 nodes) which are monitored by several servers can be centrally displayed using the "Server Overview" function.

This automatically supports users with information ("event" mail) about changes to network components, which allows an early response to possible impending problems or the prompt remedy of already existing faults. That servers can also perform overarching evaluations using external tools, Sinema Server features an interface for exporting data by web access. This function means that data can be centrally collated by using standard programs such as Excel or script-based systems, evaluated and further processed according to customer requirements.

Early detection of network faults!

Siemens is offering a host of new functions for the quick and easy location of faults in automation networks with an update of its Sinema server software.

A prerequisite of efficient fault localisation is that the status of the devices in the network is always indicated correctly and clearly. A change of status can have many different causes that are recorded and stored in the form of events. Using Service Pack SP1 of Sinema Server, it is now possible to assemble any number of such events in groups and configure their influence like ‘OK’, ‘Warning’, ‘Error’ or ‘Failure’ on the indicated device states . Among other things, this offers the user the opportunity of defining new diagnostic events of a Simatic PLC, for example. Furthermore, this means that a tool can be used to detect and indicate application- specific events, in addition to the diagnosis of the SNMP network alone, before they cause problems.

This update means that Sinema Server has also been expanded to include the diagnosis of "dropped frames". This refers to device interfaces at which frames are lost. In addition to the device lists, any information on interfaces can now be displayed in tabular form. This extends and simplifies the opportunities when evaluating and documenting port connections or port statistics data. In addition, port-dependent diagnostic settings can be carried out more easily in these tables.

Furthermore, the recognition of the network topology has been optimized so that it is even possible to recognize connections between devices that themselves contain only incomplete information, or none at all, about their immediate neighbours.

Moreover, thanks to new profiles, it is now possible in the course of the update to automatically diagnose additional devices, such as the Scalance W network products, in accordance with the 802.11n standard.

The central monitoring of the several Sinema servers has been supplemented with a trend and alarm function to ensure that no important event is lost, even in large networks. This and other functions help to monitor the dynamic behavior of networks with a central software system on a standardized, user-friendly and consistent basis.

Family upgraded to make industrial networking even easier!

Anybus X-gateways are used in thousands of industrial applications all over the world to enable communication between two industrial networks (fieldbus or industrial Ethernet). These popular “network translators” are now modernized as HMS Industrial Networks has introduced a new version of Anybus X-gateways, designed to meet the future of the automation industry. The new version contains several new features, but is fully backwards compatible meaning that existing users can easily upgrade to the new version without hassle.

What is an X-gateway? Anybus X-gateways help system integrators to easily interconnect any two networks, enabling consistent information flow throughout the entire plant. In today’s industrial installations, one common problem is that there is often more than one control system and industrial network. Most new factory upgrades need to integrate Fieldbus with Industrial Ethernet. Connecting these similar or dissimilar control systems and networks can be a challenge. With over hundreds of individual Master/Slave and Slave/Slave versions, Anybus X-gateways allows users to connect almost any possible combination of industrial networks.

USB interface and new configuration software
The new X-gateway comes with a USB interface, enabling the users to easily connect the gateway to a PC and configure the network communication via the Windows-based tool “Anybus Configuration Manager.” No programming is necessary.

New design for easier installation
The new housing with upright design requires less rack space and enables easier installation in the switching cabinet. The flexible design also allows mounting on the side (flat) similar to the previous version of the X-gateway. Additionally, X-gateway now offers even lower power consumption.

Ethernet focus
As part of the new release, HMS introduces connectivity to CC-Link IE Field in the X-gateway family. Furthermore, several of the industrial Ethernet versions now include integrated dual-port Ethernet interfaces with an integrated switch, removing the need for external switches.

Making system integration easier

“This new version of the Anybus X-gateway will provide machine builders, system integrators, OEMs and end users with a modern communication gateway that is very easy to use when it comes to configuration and integration,” comments Markus Bladh, Product Manager at HMS. “The X-gateway product family is a proven and trusted solution already in place in thousands of industrial automation plants. For these existing users, HMS ensures backwards compatibility within their industrial automation systems – keeping the same high performance, reliability and low latency.“

High-availability networking for controllers

High connection availability through parallel data transfer via separate network structures

The Simatic CP 443-1 RNA communications

processor facilitates networking of the

Simatic S7-400 controller via a redundant,

high-availability PRP connection according

to the IEC 62439-3 standard

The Siemens Industry Automation Division has expanded its portfolio for RNA (Redundant Network Access) components with a communications processor which facilitates high-availability connection of the Simatic S7-400 controller to networks. Simatic CP 443-1 RNA utilizes the Parallel Redundancy Protocol (PRP) in accordance with the IEC 62439-3 standard. The communications processor features two RJ45 ports for connecting two parallel Industrial Ethernet networks. The CP 443-1 RNA doubles the frame and feeds it into the two connected networks. The network access point on the receiver side relays the first incoming frame to the addressees and discards the later frame.

Simatic CP 443-1 RNA is designed among other things for use in process industry plants and power generation and distribution applications. The new communications processor supports open communication via TCP/IP, UDP and the ISO transport protocol as well as S7, PG/OP and S7 H communication for S7-400 H systems. Data can be transmitted in full or half-duplex mode in bandwidths of 10 or 100 Mbit/s. The user can view diagnostics information via SNMP, STEP 7 or the Web server of the communications processor.

In addition the CP 443-1 RNA has a third Ethernet interface with restricted functional scope. On the basis of the ISO transport protocol, the port supports S7 communication services only, all others are deactivated. Fewer functions mean less testing overhead and lower qualification costs. All Simatic CP 443-1 RNA functions are configured with STEP7 engineering software, V5.5 SP2 or higher and the hardware support package included in the scope of delivery.

In addition to Simatic CP 443-1 RNA, Siemens also offers additional components for building high-availability network connections in the form of Scalance X-200RNA network access points and the Softnet IE-RNA network access software.

Network design seminar

Belden Inc. will present the Hirschmann™ 2010 Mission Critical Network Design Seminar, September 19-22, 2010 in Orlando, (FL US)

Seminar topics include: • Introduction to Ethernet Networking • Network Design I: Fundamentals & Best Practices • Network Design II: Implementing Redundancy • Network Design III: Managing Multicast Traffic • Network Design IV: Isolating Network Traffic • Network Design V: Wireless Best Practices & Applications • Network Security, The Hirschmann Way • Network Management • Physical Layer Cabling & Testing: How to test and troubleshoot a reliable Ethernet network • Switch Selection: Choosing the right product for your application • Cool things your switch can do that you don’t know about • Migrating legacy devices to Ethernet • Industrial Connectivity: Passive Product Technology • Industrial Connectivity: Active Products • Ethernet Cabling: Your Questions Answered • Fiber Optic Cabling • Industrial Automation Cabling (Non-Ethernet Applications) • HSI Forum • Distributor Forum • Intro to HSI - Hirschman System Integrator Program Hands-On Labs • Managed switches “Out of the Box” • Network Management • Network Redundancy • Layer 3 / Routing • Network Security • Wireless

In today’s highly competitive markets, training is essential to establish and maintain the technical competencies needed for success and advancement. This seminar provides a multitude of high quality training options to fit specific levels of expertise. Unlike other seminars, the Mission Critical Network Design Seminar is focused on just one particular area of technology: Industrial Ethernet Networking.

Expertise in designing, implementing and maintaining industrial Ethernet networks will be critical as intelligent use of data becomes the difference between market leaders and also rans. This seminar will position attendees at the forefront of industrial Ethernet networking, now and in the future.

The seminar is intended for system integrators; network design engineers (with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms); and anyone involved with the design, implementation and maintenance of mission critical Ethernet networks. During the seminar, attendees will learn how to effectively reduce costs and installation time by implementing a highly resilient network design.

Presenters with a combined experience of over 150 years will speak on technical topics including Isolating Network Traffic, Implementing Redundancy and Network Security. Each presenter has the experience and technical background to address current technology trends for designing state-of-the art mission critical industrial Ethernet networks in a variety of industries including petrochemical; automotive; and power generation, transmission and distribution.