Rockwell Automation introduces the Allen-Bradley modular DeviceNet starter auxiliary (MDSA). This state-of-the-art communication system has been specially designed for satisfying the needs arising when using motor starters in distributed architectures. Its modularity, to accommodate associated sensors and solenoids, makes it particularly flexible and allows the realisation of solutions that fit to the requirements of the application.
The newly presented MDSA completes the existing range of DeviceNet start auxiliary (DSA). It offers the possibility of system extension while not increasing the number of DeviceNet nodes in the system. This simplifies the network planning and programming and also positively impacts the efficiency of the data transmission in the network.
The new modular DeviceNet starter auxiliary from Rockwell Automation
The Allen-Bradley distributed starter system simplifies connectivity to DeviceNet and associated sensors and solenoids with the MDSA - claimed to be the industry's only gland-plate mounted starter auxiliary. The gland-mounted MDSA reduces wiring from sensors and actuators by providing standard M12 connectors at the enclosure rather than the traditional wiring to terminal blocks on a DIN-rail. The MDSA also has broad electrical ratings, featuring 5 A relay and 2 A solid-state outputs and software filters to eliminate false readings. Due to the rugged duty that motor starters are subjected to on the plant floor, this system is designed to broader temperature, shock and vibration ratings.
The MDSA system consists of a set of modules that can be mounted in a row to build the required configuration. Every configuration can count up to 16 modules addressable under one single DeviceNet node. Specific starter modules offer two inputs and one output and are dedicated to the control of one single motor. Further modules encompass sensor modules, input modules and output modules in several versions.
Distributed starters replace more and more traditional centralised panels, as well as individual power wiring from motor starter to motors and complex hard wiring of associated control circuits. The concept of distributed starter system allows daisy-chaining power wiring to motors, control and communication over one DeviceNet cable and standardised M12 micro connectors for communication and I/O. The MDSA is suitable for IP66 enclosures. These features significantly decrease the number of terminations, reducing installation time and wiring errors, simplify the design of modular facilities, reduce plant-floor space, improve system monitoring and diagnostics, simplify changes to layouts and allow system pre-commissioning.
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