Phoenix Contact’s new FL Comserver WLAN 232/422/485 permits wireless access to machines, plants, and systems equipped with serial interfaces. Mobile industrial applications with RS232/422/485 or USB interfaces can be integrated into wireless LAN networks via this device server.
Wireless connectivity according to IEEE 802.11 b/g with a maximum data transmission rate of 54 Mbit/s can be reliably secured using encryption mechanisms according to WPA/WPA2 (AES and TKIP) as well as WEP. The simple substitute for cable-based systems in mobile applications is realised with the ad-hoc or infrastructure mode. This means that serial devices can be directly connected with one another or can be integrated into a network via access points.
Comprehensive diagnostic displays and an LED bar graph indicating the RF power received are integrated in the device. They facilitate simple commissioning and continuous monitoring in operation. Further, the actual signal strength can be digitally displayed and externally processed. The extended temperature range from -25 to +60°C allows stable operation under extreme conditions. As a consequence, special serial applications with drag chains or slip rings can be simply replaced using the international WLAN standard.
Why secure industrial communication depends on deployment as well
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The Industrial Security Harmonisation Group has released a joint industry perspective highlighting a critical truth in industrial cybersecurity: secure communication is not determined by protocols alone, but by how they are deployed and managed in real-world environments.
Read more...A single platform for all automation functions Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
: The introduction of TwinCAT in 1996 marked a decisive evolutionary step for PC-based control. Today, the TwinCAT platform combines all automation functions in a strictly deterministic real-time environment, from PLC and motion control through CNC and measurement technology and beyond, to vision, robotics and pioneering AI tools.
Read more...Cybersecurity for potentially explosive areas Phoenix Contact
IS & Ex
The Cellulink outdoor cellular router product range from Phoenix Contact is being extended. New versions are now also available that have been specially developed for use in Zone 2 potentially explosive areas.
Read more...Loop signature Part 2-4: Feedforward Control: Part 3 Michael Brown Control Engineering
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
In the previous articles in this series, the basic theory behind feedforward control was discussed, and it was also shown how to apply feedforward in practice. In this article, it will be shown how well feedforward can work in practice by giving a couple of examples.
Read more...Control Station and Dimension Software partner to connect control performance monitoring with enterprise operations intelligence
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Control Station has entered into a strategic technology partnership with Dimension Software, a leading provider of industrial operations management platforms. The collaboration connects Control Station’s PlantESP control loop performance monitoring platform with Dimension Software’s Asset Intellect operations intelligence environment, enabling manufacturers to operationalise control performance insights across their organisations.
Read more...Precise, synchronised control for automated steel mesh handling system
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Automation specialist Hambi Maschinenbau has developed a world-first system that automates the cutting, handling and stacking of heavy reinforcing steel mesh – a task that previously required up to six human operators.
Read more...Advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities Phoenix Contact
Electrical Power & Protection
The Raptor EP4200 and EP5200 series switches provide advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities with high performance and availability tailored for demanding critical infrastructure and energy applications.
Read more...Loop signature Part 2-3: Feedforward Control: Part 2 Michael Brown Control Engineering
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Feedforward control tuning is not nearly as critical as feedback tuning, and fairly simple models are usually fine for the purpose in hand.
Read more...Upgrading radiological surveillance systems in nuclear facilities Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Nuclear plant operators face an uncomfortable reality. Many of the control and monitoring systems still in use today were never designed to support the full operational lifespan of the facilities they serve.
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