Until recently there has been a gap in factory automation technology for simple programmable applications. There were discrete components such as time lag relays, counters and relays on the one hand and compact and miniature programmable logic controllers (PLCs) on the other, but neither were really entirely suitable for this market. Discrete components are often not able to handle more complex jobs, and PLC systems are over-dimensioned for many applications.
Mitsubishi Electric is offering something to close that gap. Its novel controller system concept: the ALPHA controller family of controllers, which are available in three versions, the ALPHA 6, ALPHA 10 and ALPHA 20.
Its makers believe that the ALPHA class is destined to establish itself as the standard universal controller in industrial applications for which competitors' discrete components and PLCs cannot provide a satisfactory solution. In configurations using discrete components functions often have to be adjusted with screwdrivers - ALPHA completely eliminate this time-consuming annoyance. By the same token, it also eliminates the need for oversized PLC systems, providing an economical solution dimensioned for the actual control requirements of these applications.
Targeted for machine manufacturers and similar users, the ALPHA controllers are an appropriate, cost-effective automation choice for a very wide variety of applications involving complex counting and timing processes, logic operations and analog signal processing. This system can control punching machines, packaging machines, conveyors, containers, gates and much more besides. The controllers are available for series production users in three different versions for different application profiles:
* ALPHA 6: four inputs/two outputs.
* ALPHA 10: six inputs/four outputs.
* ALPHA 20: 12 inputs/eight outputs (on-board expansion module option).
Software
Visual Logic Support AL-PCS/WIN is an intuitive, user-friendly graphical programming software package that enables users to program their ALPHA controllers on site for the specific needs of their individual applications. Although ALPHA controllers can also be programmed directly, programming is usually carried out via the controller interface with a PC running this Windows software package.
No special knowledge or skills are required. The software guarantees fast and efficient programming with online help. An advanced simulator program generates visual representations of program sequences on the screen. Another helpful feature is the ability to set the system's thirty pre-programmed functions with a single mouse click. Users can create programs with up to 64 function blocks (program modules) using this simple method. Each of the modules performs a specific function, uses a defined number of inputs and/or outputs and can be used as often as required. Another highlight of the ALPHA controller: Up to eight hybrid inputs that can be used in either analog or digital input mode.
Text display and clock/calendar function
Plain text messages, function block values and editing changes are all displayed on the controller screen with the new display function. Said to be the only text display of its kind, the integrated calendar/clock function supports up to 350 individual switching operations (on/off commands), enabling the ALPHA to be used as a multichannel, realtime clock. Another useful feature is the retentive operating hours counter that the system also supports.
It is for these reasons that its makers say that ALPHA is a completely new product category. It has been priced in the same category as competing products, promising value for money for the industrial user.
Key benefits of the ALPHA class:
* Supports programming of complex Boolean functions.
* 1500 bytes program memory.
* Asymmetric clock generators (T-ON/T-OFF), individually programmable.
* Impulse generator function.
* Ideal for simple industrial applications.
* Display function for displaying and editing plain text messages and values.
* Extremely user-friendly.
* Up to eight inputs can be used as analog inputs.
* Gain function for shifting analog signals.
* Integrated Schmitt trigger controller (ON/OFF controller).
* Can also be used for small closed-loop controller applications.
* Integrated calendar/clock function.
* Up to 350 on/off switching commands per program.
* Can replace a multichannel realtime clock.
* Graphical programming software package.
* Large set of pre-programmed functions.
* Simple, fast and efficient programming.
Mitsubishi Electric distributed by Circuit Breaker Industries
011 928 2000
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