Two new variants of IPC FEC Standard front-end controller from Festo are set to open up new applications and consistently expand the easy to install, time and space-saving FEC range.
Whether used as a standalone solution or networked for decentralised intelligence, both PC-based miniature controllers (IPC FEC Standard and the IPC FEC Compact) were previously predestined exclusively for control tasks. Equipped with analog value processing for additional functionality, the new variants of the IPC FEC Standard (thanks to analog inputs and outputs) are now capable of taking over simple closed loop control tasks as well.
Available under the designations FEC620 and FEC660, the two new controller variants enable, for example, compressed air metering and monitoring with the help of pressure sensors, air consumption measurements by means of flow sensors, and temperature measurement and monitoring with temperature probes. Length and displacement measurements are possible with the help of linear potentiometers, and pressure and force measurements can be performed with pressure sensors. Weight detection with a weighing system and control of continuously regulated proportional valves for pneumatic and hydraulic applications represent further uses which are made possible by the analog value processing.
The improved miniature controller also offers diverse programming options, Ethernet and Internet interfaces for integration into networks and an optimised connection concept. The IPC FEC Standard together with the FEC620 and the FEC660 make use of the space-saving SAC plug concept. This sensor-actuator connector, which is also available with an integrated '3-level terminal strip', facilitates direct connection of sensors and actuators to the controller, thus eliminating the need for additional terminal strips. This results in space savings of up to 50% in the control cabinet, and installation time is also reduced by as much as 40%.
Festo can supply a man-machine interface with the new FEC units for easy display and operation of all FEC controllers, allowing for visualisation of program sequences and interventions in the sequence - a valuable addition for both new FEC variants. IPC FEC620 and IPC FEC660 offer 32 digital inputs, 16 digital transistor outputs, 3/1 analog I/Os (12 bit A-D converter) and two serial ports.
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