Flexible automation tools for small-scale control
September 2004
Operator Interfaces, Switches & Relays
Omron has introduced a modular, expandable, programmable relay that is designed to provide flexible, automatic control for small-scale machines and facilities. Called the Zen, this relay combines all the functionality of timers, counters and relays to control multiple input and output signals. The Zen is a suitable solution for building automation applications where multiple timer control is very important. It is easy to program thanks to a dedicated Omron support software package. Once a program has been created it can be saved to a memory module and copied to another Zen without having to use a PC. The Zen's operating capability can be customised by connecting more expansion I/O units to it.
Two versions of the Zen are available. The Zen C1 is the more advanced model, and features time-switch functions, calendar, clock and display messages, and password protection of the settings. It also has an LCD display with four lines and 12 characters. Programming the Zen C1 can be accomplished via eight buttons on the front panel or with Omron's dedicated software package. Settings can be easily changed using these buttons and the display. The Zen C1's backlight LCD screen makes it easier to operate in poor lighting conditions. The second version - the Zen C2 - has no LCD display, but it does feature three LEDs for Power, Run and Error status. Updates are easy to download using the memory module, connecting it to the Zen C2 automatically transfers the program.
Zens are available in two standard CPU sizes: the Zen 10 I/O and the Zen 20 I/O. The user can program up to 16 Timers (T), 8 Holding Timers (#), 16 Counters (C), 16 Weekly Timers (@), 16 Calendar Timers (*), and 16 Displays (D). Functionality can be enhanced by adding up to three expansion units, which will expand CPUs of 10 I/O to maximum of 34 I/O, and for the 20 I/O to maximum of 44 I/O. Both AC and DC supply voltage models are available, and two analog inputs of 0 to 10 V d.c. can be connected to DC versions. The Zen is available with relay (8 A/250 V a.c.) or transistor (0,5 A/24 V d.c.) outputs. The input for DC power supply versions can be either NPN or PNP.
A battery unit can be attached to the Zen to ensure that all calendar and clock functions are backed up for 10 years or more. Its program and parameter settings can also be backed up in the CPU unit's internal EEPROM, ensuring that no data is lost even if a battery unit is not installed. Memory cassettes can be connected to the Zen and used to save, download or copy programs to another Zen unit. This saves a lot of time and effort on reprogramming.
The Zen's strength lies in its flexibility. It can be used to control everything from fans and pumps to complex lighting sequences and escalators. It is suitable for replacing dedicated printed-circuit boards, which enable the user to make process changes without having to redesign a new board.
For more information contact Dave Gould, Yelland Control, 031 240 0700, [email protected], www.yelland.co.za
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