Latest automation products lower costs

14th October 2014

Source: RS (formerly RS Components)

RS Components has unveiled its latest collections of industrial logic controllers and HMI modules from top brands, delivering improvements such as compact sizes, new features, reduced installation time, and lower costs for machine and panel builders and equipment maintainers. The distributor is introducing the latest Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) from Schneider Electric and Omron, and will add further new models from Siemens and Crouzet before the end of the year.

The Schneider Modicon M221 logic controllers minimise installation challenges by integrating SD and USB ports, two analogue inputs and up to 40 I/Os, while the choice of either standard or book formats give maximum versatility. The M221 PLCs can connect to a simple remote operator panel for instant maintenance and machine visualisation.

In addition, the Modicon PLC range at RS is boosted with the arrival of the M241 for high-performance applications. M241 has five embedded ports, supports CANopen for fieldbus architectures up to 63 devices, and features a built-in web server to allow monitoring and maintenance from any location using a mobile device. A wide range of I/O expansion modules and safety relays is also available.

The new Omron CP1L series delivers the capabilities of a modular PLC in a compact micro-PLC format. It provides comprehensive machine-control functions including outstanding positioning capability, with powerful options such as an embedded Ethernet port with socket services functionality, communication and I/O expansion boards, and the advantages of application compatibility with CP1H, CJ1, and CS1 PLCs.

Omron's new NB HMI series enables a smart new look for user interfaces, and includes colour touchscreens from 3.5 to 10 inches. Long-life LED backlighting and large data storage support richer graphics, while improved window handling, animation support, and macros help designers create new and intuitive designs optimised for packaging, food, plastics, textiles or other industries.

Completing the first wave of the new technology refreshing the RS portfolio, the Schneider Modicon M580 is the world’s first Ethernet PAC (ePAC) automation controller. Bringing the benefits of open networking to process development, implementation and operation, the new M580 has built-in cyber security and also benefits from ATEX II certification for use in environments where gas or dust hazards are present. M580 is ideal for installations using Schneider’s PlantStruxure integrated automation architecture, which helps increase efficiency.

RS Components currently has over 3000 PLC, HMI and data-acquisition products in its portfolio, and will reveal further updates to the range supporting next-generation industrial automation systems later in the autumn.

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