Developed with GE Fanuc's patented, leading-edge technology, PACSystems Control Memory Xchange allows multiple devices to share large amounts of control data over a fibre-optic deterministic network at speeds up to 200 times faster than Ethernet.
This is according to Daniel Coetzee, GE Fanuc automation business manager for Sub-Saharan Africa.
"Increasing automation performance and reliability, this high-speed memory-sharing application operates in parallel to the main logic CPU with virtually no effect on the scan time of the control processor," says Coetzee. "Additionally, PACSystems Control Memory Xchange offers improved security over Ethernet - which operates on an open protocol - and supports the distance requirements to physically separate redundant processors into different cabinets or buildings in critical applications with potential homeland threats."
High speed memory sharing benefits
By acquiring large amounts of data at very high speed through PACSystems Control Memory Xchange, users can quickly adjust process parameters and achieve tighter synchronisation between control systems - which can increase product quality and reduce material scrap.
Applications that can benefit from the system include paper production; metals forming, finishing and extracting; cement crushing and conveying; oil and gas processing and distribution; wind tunnel testing; chemical dispensing; painting; batch processing; and any other process requiring high speed, high volume data acquisition for high resolution measurement and fast response.
Greater bandwidth and capacity means that users can acquire a higher number of parameters for future process analysis. Manufacturers can augment data management systems, such as iHistorian software from GE Fanuc, with PACSystems Control Memory Xchange to combine high-speed communication and processing with powerful archiving capabilities.
Leading-edge technology
Says Coetzee: "The PACSystems Control Memory Xchange controller writes data to shared memory, and this unique technology immediately and automatically broadcasts the data to all other nodes on the network. This automatic data transfer requires no software overhead or host processor intervention, enabling the PACSystems CPU to devote its processing resources to the control application and reducing the cost and time typically associated with software development."
Available in multiple control form factors for controllers and PCs such as VME, PCI and PMC, the Memory Xchange allows users to easily share data in realtime at rates up to 174 Mbytes per second with node-to-node latency as low as 450 nanoseconds.
"Users can realise updates on 10 000 data tags from input controller to second controller or screen display in as little as 1 ms. This simple yet powerful 'shared memory' architecture provides realtime speed and deterministic performance without the data collisions and latencies that can plague other network technologies," says Coetzee.
The system permits data sharing between up to 256 independent systems or nodes, allowing for plant-wide data transfer. Each controller or computer keeps a local copy of shared data for fast realtime use. Noise immunity in the fibre-optic system increases reliability and eases installation. It also features an OPC server to connect with GE Fanuc HMI software and other software.
The technology is operating system independent, making it easy to implement in a variety of applications. In fact, this patented GE Fanuc technology has been proven in many industries and applications around the world.
PACSystems Control Memory Xchange will be available for the PACSystems RX7i platform in July with additional platforms to follow.
About GE Fanuc Automation
GE Fanuc Automation, a joint venture between GE and Fanuc of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability. With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, CNCs, operator interfaces, industrial computers, and lasers. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, GE Fanuc Automation is a part of GE Infrastructure and combines the diverse global strengths of the GE family with the local presence customers need to design, develop and maintain their automation investments.
For more information contact Daniel Coetzee, business manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, GE Fanuc Automation, 031 583 2602, [email protected], www.gefanuc.com
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