Industrial Factory Automation

Ethernet extenders use DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) to extend Ethernet links up to 10km over a single pair of low-grade copper wires. The units operate transparently as part of an existing network, without requiring driver installation or complex setup procedures. All 'IP' traffic that could be sent across a standard patch cable can be sent across an Ethernet Extender link. The potential to save money using Ethernet Extenders becomes apparent when they are used instead of a fibre-optic link or a wireless bridge. An old pair of telephone wires or defunct RS485 cabling from a security camera can suddenly become a precious commodity on a site that requires long-range Ethernet connections. Even in simple applications where a run of Cat5 cable exceeds the 100m distance limit for Ethernet, Ethernet Extenders can be deployed to save the cost of signal repeaters, power supplies and associated housings for the equipment. One of the main early adopters of this technology was the buildin...

TURCK has introduced the PB-XEPI Ethernet Profibus Device Coupler, which combines integrated web-server software with diagnostic functionality. The coupler enables users to monitor Profibus networks remotely through a web browser, without disrupting network operations. The PB-XEPI may be integrated into new or existing Profibus networks in pharmaceutical, food-and-beverage and packaging applications. Through an internet connection, users can employ the PB-XEPI to monitor and configure applications while maintaining network communications. The PB-XEPI can identify any malfunctions in the network and send an error message via e-mail that includes a link to the device, empowering users to directly access the interface. Users can then view detailed information about the malfunction and the recommended procedures to remedy it, as well as adjust monitoring and alarm settings. The PB-XEPI may be configured as an active node on the Profibus network using FDT/DTM software. Additional softwa...

Ethernet Direct has announced it is to release three product catalogues in 2010, the Industrial Ethernet catalogue, Industrial Communication catalogue, and the Industrial Automation catalogue. A total of 500 product models are spread out in more than 20 product solutions, offering industrial Ethernet devices suitable for all industrial applications. A broad spectrum of each product series is available to offer a comprehensive solution in industry segments and specific solutions such as military, mining, building automation, manufacturing automation, security and surveillance, intelligent transportation, factory automation and more.

The CMB-575 from BVM is a compact system based on the low-power, high-performance 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 processor. The EXB-format motherboard can address up to 2GB of RAM with a 533MHz front-side bus and overall management is by the 945GSE and ICH7M chipset. The CMB-575 has a heavy-duty steel enclosure, ready for standalone or wall-mounted use or for embedding in a larger system. Optimised for network applications with four Gigabit Ethernet ports, the CMB-575 is suitable for firewalls, spam filtering, intrusion detection, gateway anti-virus security, VPN gateway, security recording and industrial applications such as kiosks and control systems. In addition to the four Ethernet ports, the unit has four USB 2.0 ports and a SATA interface to a 2.5in HDD that mounts into a dedicated drive bay within the enclosure. RS232/422/485 and integrated audio are provided, HDTV is supported and two Mini-PCI and one Compactflash interface are on the board. Onboard 18-bit dual-channel LVDS and an opt...

Molex has introduced more robust versions of its RJ-45 Ethernet plugs and jacks for use in industrial, marine and telecom applications. Designed for compact applications requiring high-density and high-protection levels, the IP67-/IP20-rated connectors are built in accordance with the Profinet specification. Extended usage of Ethernet applications from office floors to the factory level requires RJ-45 connectors with an enhanced protection level and Category 5 (100Mbit/s fast Ethernet) performance. Typical industrial applications include Profinet-driven robotic devices. Molex's IP20 data plug is the smallest RJ-45 Ethernet plug and the only version to which 22 AWG cables may be connected to support insulation displacement technology (IDT). The connector is designed with a standard grid of just 14mm, which provides maximum packing density in the application, according to Molex. The IP67-rated data plug version features a push-pull housing that can be locked and unlocked using one h...