In Europe, communication between telecontrol master stations and substations is generally based on standardised IEC 60870-5 protocols. Standard 101 has been defined for serial communication and standard 104 for IP-based communication. Beckhoff supports these standards with PLC libraries for TwinCAT automation software.
The slave implementations for the 101 and 104 protocols, developed by Beckhoff as pure PLC libraries, are already being used in a wide range of applications. Embedded PCs from the CX family are generally used as CPUs. However, some applications require a device to simultaneously operate in slave and master mode. This device acts as a slave connected to a master station and, at the same time, as a master for subordinate devices. Therefore, a new PLC library referred to as 'TwinCAT PLC IEC 60870-5-104 master' providing master functionality for the 104 protocol has been developed. The slave and master process images can be easily synchronised.
TwinCAT automation software integrates realtime control with PLC systems, NC axis control and a programming environment in a single, dynamic package. The software PLC/NC/CNC is embedded in Microsoft operating systems Windows NT/2000/XP. Programming is based on the globally-recognised IEC 61131-3 standards. TwinCAT links to all common fieldbuses and PC interfaces for I/O signals.
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.
Read more...PC-based control regulates innovative dehumidifiers Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Swedish company, Airwatergreen is breaking new ground in the dehumidification of air in industrial buildings and warehouses. The patented CVP technology reduces energy requirements and ensures an indoor climate that prevents corrosion and mould growth. PC-based control from Beckhoff regulates this innovative process.
Read more...PC-based control in window and door production Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
Belgian machine builders CNC Solutions and Calvet are automating previously manual processes in aluminium window and door production. High-performance drive technology, motion control and electric cylinders from Beckhoff proved crucial in equipping the machine with the necessary finesse when pressing the window frames.
Read more...PC-based control for advanced hydrogen storage technology Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Sufficient storage options for renewable energies are essential to use them as efficiently as possible. GKN Hydrogen offers a particularly compact and safe option, low-pressure metal hydride hydrogen storage systems with PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...Prestigious award recognises inventiveness and entrepreneurial courage Beckhoff Automation
News
Hans Beckhoff, managing director, owner and founder of Beckhoff Automation, was recently honoured with the widely acclaimed Rudolf Diesel Medal 2025. This medal honours him as a visionary pioneer in automation technology.
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Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Promise Robotics, a Canadian startup is reinventing prefabrication. Advanced automation technology from Beckhoff and AI control a robotic solution for efficient prefabrication. As a result, onsite assembly becomes up to 70% faster.
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