News


Omron launches Sysmac automation platform

December 2011 News

Omron Industrial Automation Business has announced the release of a new machine automation platform: Sysmac (system for machine automation control). Sysmac stands for one machine control through one connection and one software, and represents a milestone in Omron’s 10-year plan aiming to strengthen and globalise its position in the machine automation business segment.

The guiding principles behind the Sysmac automation platform are:

* One control for the entire machine or production cell.

* Harmony between machine and people.

* Open communication and programming standards.

The result is a powerful and robust automation platform with a new machine automation controller (Sysmac NJ), that integrates motion, sequencing, networking and vision inspection and a new software (Sysmac Studio) that includes configuration, programming, simulation and monitoring and a fast machine network (EtherCAT) to control motion, vision, sensors and actuators.

One machine controller

The heart of the new automation platform is the Sysmac NJ 501 machine automation controller, which is designed for high speed and flexibility. It incorporates an Intel processor proven for harsh industrial environments with fan-free operation and runs under the RTOS a real-time operating system. It is scalable with a choice of 16, 32 and 64 axis CPUs. A response time of less than 1 ms can be achieved for applications of up to 32 axes, unheard of with conventional hardware-based control.

One machine software

Created to give machine builders full control over the automation system, Sysmac Studio integrates configuration, programming, simulation and monitoring into one software. Sysmac Studio delivers a true integrated development environment and offer a new experience in terms of ease of use and speed of programming.

One machine network

One connection via the Sysmac NJ series controller allows seamless control and communication with both the machine and the factory. The new NJ series controllers are designed for open communication via EtherCAT, the fastest emerging network on the market for machine automation. EtherCAT is Omron’s de-facto machine network for its wide range of field and motion devices. It is a 100 Mbps industrial Ethernet network compliant with IEEE 802.3 frames, capable of handling up to 192 slaves with refresh time down to 100 μs and less than 1 μs jitter. It achieves high accuracy for multi-axis synchronisation thanks to its distributed slave clock mechanism. It is simple to set-up with automatic address assignment for slaves and cost effective to install as it uses standard shielded Ethernet cables and connectors.

In line with Omron’s social and global policy, Sysmac meets global standards such as EC Directives, cULus, Lloyd’s and NK and is designed and manufactured with clean and recyclable material.

For more information contact Terry McIntosh, Omron Electronics, 086 066 7661, [email protected], www.industrial.omron.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.

Read more...
Beyond the exhibition: AATF 2025 Conference lineup brings exclusive
News
While the Africa Automation Technology Fair (AATF) 2025 exhibition floor will showcase cutting-edge automation solutions, the real game-changing insights will be found within the conference halls.

Read more...
Building the control panels of the future
Omron Electronics Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
The industrial automation world is built on robust and efficient control panels. These control panels are designed precisely and assembled, managing machines, processes and equipment across different industries. Omron assists panel builders in navigating complex challenges that could impact project efficiency and profitability.

Read more...
How to claim CPD points
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council News
SAIMC makes it possible for you to claim CPD points for attending courses and technical meetings, or completing an online quiz on a SA Instrumentation & Control magazine.

Read more...
Festo celebrates its centenary
Festo South Africa News
Creating added customer value through innovation has been the driving force behind the family-owned company from the beginning and remains the key to Festo’s success today. The company’s anniversary is being celebrated with employees, customers and partners worldwide throughout the year.

Read more...
RS Group cements its position as an ESG leader
News
RS Group has announced its inclusion in the prestigious CDP A-list, having improved its CDP rating this year from A- to A for its commitment to climate action, environmental transparency and disclosure

Read more...
ECSA awards full accreditation to IIE degrees
News
The Independent Institute of Education has received full accreditation from ECSA. This is the first private higher education provider in the country to be recognised in this manner by the industry authority.

Read more...
Taking the pain out of panel building
Omron Electronics Electrical Power & Protection
Panel building stands as a cornerstone of industrial automation, shaping the efficiency and reliability of automated systems across different and diverse industries, from manufacturing to infrastructure. Omron leverages over 80 years of experience to furnish OEMs and builders with cutting-edge control panel solutions.

Read more...
Growing demand for staple foods in Africa drives Bühler’s growth
News
Opportunities in strengthening local supply chains, especially within food processing and agribusiness, will be the main focus for Bühler Southern Africa in 2025.

Read more...
South African students advance to international round of Young Researchers awards
News
Two Masters in Engineering students from Stellenbosch University have advanced to the international round of the 2025 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation competition. Their projects impressed the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa for their originality and relevance to the forestry sector, which plays a key role in producing wood and paper.

Read more...