Powerful tool for connectivity and data management

May 2006 Fieldbus & Industrial Networking

Micropower Instrumentation is offering Red Lion's Data Station Plus. Model CSGATESX is a multiple protocol converter, a system data logger, and a web interface for industrial applications. With two RS232 and one RS422/485 communications ports, as well as a 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet port, the Data Station can connect to various devices simultaneously. With downloadable communications drivers, the Data Station can communicate to virtually any serial or Ethernet device in its own native language, and transfer that data to and from any other connected device. Integrating devices with mismatched protocols can now be done with the click of a mouse.

The data logging facility allows variables to be collected and stored along with a time and date stamp for later review of the process. Files are stored on CompactFlash in common CSV file format, allowing readily-available programs such as Microsoft Excel to access them. The 'virtual HMI' facility provides a means to view and control a process from any networked PC, using only a standard web browser, while the port sharing facility allows serially connected devices to be reprogrammed remotely.

Feature summary

* Protocol conversion feature converts numerous protocols simultaneously.

* CompactFlash slot allows process data to be logged directly to CSV files.

* Virtual HMI offers built-in PC-based scada functionality.

* Webserver provides worldwide access to data logs and virtual HMI.

* Extensive built-in driver list allows easy data mapping to PLCs, PCs, and scada systems.

* Alarm notifications can be sent via e-mail or text messages.

* 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet connection can connect to an unlimited number of devices via four protocols simultaneously.

Further reading:

Introduction to Part 2 loop signatures and process transfer functions
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The previous series of loop signature articles dealt with the basics of control loop optimisation, and concentrated on troubleshooting and ‘SWAG’ tuning of simple processes. In this new series, consideration will be given to dealing practically with more difficult issues like interactive processes, and with processes with much more complex dynamics.

Read more...

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Siemens sets new standards in drive technology
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Siemens is setting new standards in industrial drive technology with the launch of its new high-performance drive system, Sinamics S220. This offers a seamless and innovative drive system with comprehensive simulation and analysis capabilities and advanced connectivity features that enable full integration into digital work processes.

Read more...

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PC-based control in the plastics industry
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Nissei Plastic, an injection moulding machine manufacturer based in Japan is implementing a worldwide tend towards open automation systems from experienced specialists using PC and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff.

Read more...

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Loop Signature 31: Non-linearity in control loops (Part 2)
Michael Brown Control Engineering Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
This article is a continuation of Loop Signature 30 published in the last issue in this series, exploring reasons for non-linearities which may be encountered in feedback control loops

Read more...

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PC-based control optimises robotic parts handling on plastics machinery
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
NEO is a cartesian robot developed by INAUTOM Robótica in Portugal for parts removal on plastics machinery. Its aim is to increase system productivity. NAUTOM Robótica has entered into a strategic partnership with Bresimar Automação to increase the working speed of the cartesian robots using advanced control and motion solutions from Beckhoff. The result is a comprehensive, future-proof automation solution for its entire family of cartesian robots.

Read more...

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PC-based control for flat wire motors for electric vehicles
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Special machine manufacturer, ruhlamat Huarui Automation Technologies unveiled the second generation of its mass production line for flexible stators with bar winding. This enables extremely short production cycle and line changeover times, supported by PC- and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff.

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Case History 200: The final case history – desuperheater control problem.
Michael Brown Control Engineering Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
For this final article I have chosen to relate a problem that existed in a desuperheater temperature control on a boiler in a petrochemical refinery.

Read more...

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PC-based control technology in additive manufacturing
Beckhoff Automation Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
As an open control platform, PC-based control supports different engineering approaches, including low-code programming. The machine builder, Additive Industries uses this to create the code for the TwinCAT runtime of its 3D printers.

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Suppression and safety solutions for fire and gas in mission-critical industries
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
By representing world-leading brands and focusing on fully integrated, certified systems, HMA South Africa is positioning itself as a trusted partner in fire detection, suppression and explosion-proof safety solutions across the continent.

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Integrating fire alarm systems into building management systems
Beckhoff Automation Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Fire alarm systems work independently of the building automation system. Schrack Seconet has developed a flexible gateway using ultra-compact industrial PCs and TwinCAT from Beckhoff, which can be used to flexibly convert a customer-specific communication protocol to a wide range of transmission standards.

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