EtherNet/IP modules for industrial automation applications

March 2012 Fieldbus & Industrial Networking

16 digital channels with universal I/O functionality for direct connections between sensors, actuators and control systems.

EtherNet/IP is one of the most important network standards in the field of automation. These two new LioN-M I/O modules from Lumberg Automation support the latest EtherNet/IP protocols and connect sensors and actuators directly to control systems. The I/O modules integrated dual-port switch facilitates a line topology as well as star topology. They also enable one to continue using existing communications structures, such as cable trays and energy chains, without modifying the physical layout, which leads to cost savings.

These two modules also facilitate a high availability ring topology: if the connection goes down, the device level ring protocol (DLR) immediately, switches to an alternative ring segment without interrupting machinery operations. Each provides 16 digital channels, in one version (16DI) the channels are used as inputs. The universal modules provide both 16 digital inputs and outputs – in any desired combination and without any need for individual parameterisation. Accordingly these modules offer a very high level of flexibility, not only at the planning stage, but also when making changes during commissioning or subsequent upgrades.

In addition, the ‘easy diagnostic’ concept with a display for each I/O port enables easy fault finding. The same information is also available via the Ethernet IP protocol, facilitating detailed analysis on a centralised control and display system without any need to configure the module. Thus, time-consuming error localisation is eliminated, minimising downtimes and maintenance periods, while increasing the availability of installation.

The colour coding of the individual plug-in connectors enables immediate recognition of the function of various sockets (fieldbus, power supply or I/O). The optimised arrangement of the M12 I/O sockets considerably simplifies the installation process, even T distributors can be installed with ease.

The advantages at a glance

* Connection of sensors and actuators to EtherNet/IP networks.

* Integrated dual-port switch (10/100 Mbit/s) facilitates line topology.

* Ring topology by means of the device level ring protocol.

* 16 digital channels, either as inputs or universally as inputs and/or outputs.

* M12 connections for network ports and I/O sockets.

* Fail-safe connections via colour coding of network ports.

* Rotary switches for easy IP address selection.

* Configuration via the control system’s user interface.

* Ingress protection rating IP67.

* Temperature range -10 to 60°C.

* Flexible front or side mounting.

For more information contact Greg Pokroy, Jaycor International, +27 (0)21 447 4247, greg@jaycor.co.za, www.jaycor.co.za

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