We found 39 posts about Communication & Networking from DO Supply, a global automation parts
reseller focused on hard-to-find and obsolete industrial automation products.
As we approach the golden age of automation and Industry 4.0, processes that were once manual or repetitive are being phased out with robotics and PLCs. This shift to the next generation of manufacturing and processing comes with the reliance on the Internet to program, run, and troubleshoot, leaving the door open for vulnerabilities that can result in cybersecurity attacks. Due to this, the demand for industrial routers has made its voice heard, and Allen Bradley has answered with their Stratix line. While several generations of Stratix routers exist, we will focus on the 5900. While some routers were designed for carpeted offices or quiet server rooms, the Stratix 5900 was not. Instead, it was built to feel at home in environments prone to dust, vibrations, and temperature swings. Its passively cooled, IP41-rated chassis is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -13 to 140F (-25 to 60C), meaning it could keep cool next to stamping presses or welding bays. Added to this is...
When running any operation, whether it’s a small business or a large automation company with many satellite sites, cybersecurity is a gear in the main machine that isn’t to be left out. Network security comes in all forms, such as VPNs, firewalls, and even your local IT personnel telling you to stop clicking on those phishing emails. However, that is mainly due to the dangers an unsecured network can impose. This is where the Stratix 5900 comes in, a device that does a lot more than route packets from point A to point B. The main idea for the Stratix 5900 is to build an industrial VPN router that is meant to withstand the harsh environments that factories will inevitably subject them to with speed and connectivity. Speed and connectivity are also top priorities to ensure as little downtime as possible and proper integration with industrial control systems. A conventional office-grade router might bring high speeds, but it’s like comparing a single-blade pocketknife to a Swiss Army...
Modern network devices must secure, protect, and ensure operational continuity while simply facilitating the network. Cybersecurity is paramount, even in industrial environments. The Stratix 5900 from Allen-Bradley is one such drive that answers these questions. It is not just another managed switch—it’s a secure and intelligent network device for protecting and optimizing the industrial automation system. This article provides a brief summary of this product’s potential role in industrial networks. The Stratix 5900 is an industrial-grade router for secure and reliable data transmission. The router supports various Ethernet protocols and can bridge or route multiple protocols into local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). The device has increased network connectivity with several Fast Ethernet (10/100) and Gigabit Ethernet ports. However, the ultimate selling point of the Stratix 5900 is its emphasis on security. It has integrated VPN (Virtual Private Network) and...
A factory with perfect efficiency, uptime, and productivity is one bad actor away from utter failure if it never pays any mind to its network security. Many routers are built for office environments, but automation demands more. Harsh conditions, strict security requirements, and seamless integration with industrial control systems make traditional IT equipment and software less effective. That is where the Stratix 5900 comes in. This security appliance is designed specifically for industrial networks, combining firewall protection, secure remote access, and advanced traffic control into a single package. But how does this all lead to safeguarding your factory? Shop for Stratix 5900 Routers Here Firewalls control which traffic is allowed into and out of a network. In industrial settings, this is especially important because unauthorized access can lead to production slowdowns or system failures. The Stratix 5900 firewall is tailored for automation environments, allowing it to filter...
Wireless Sensor Networks, or WSNs, are infrastructure-less wireless networks that use thousands of spatially distributed sensors to monitor environmental and physical parameters, like temperature, motion, pressure, etc. Each sensor node collects data and transmits it to a sink node or a central hub using radio frequency. At this main location, it is processed, stored, and analyzed by a computer or a human. These smart sensors are self-configured, meaning that they can automatically supervise processes without any manual intervention. WSNs have several key components: A sensor node comprises of a sensing unit (or a transducer) that measures physical parameters, a micro-controller that processes the data, an ADC, a transceiver for wireless communication, and a power source which is usually a battery. WSNs come in three main structures for radio communication. Radio Telescopes In Star Topology, the sink node can send or receive information from various remote sensors. However...
The Stratix 5900 industrial router is distinctive in industrial automation because of its powerful features, which include sophisticated security, high-speed networking, smooth protocol integration, and stable performance even in challenging settings. An extensive comparison of the Stratix 5900 versus industry leaders, including Cisco, Siemens, Hirschmann, and Moxa, is given in this article. In order to assist industrial customers in making knowledgeable decisions regarding their network infrastructure, we discussed the features of each router by looking closely at important elements like Ethernet connectivity, security features, remote management, cellular integration, and redundancy protocols. For industrial applications, the Stratix 5900 allows data speeds of up to 1 Gbps per port, facilitating quick and effective communication. It prioritizes vital data flow using sophisticated Quality of Service (QoS) methods, ensuring crucial processes aren’t delayed. Cisco Industrial Routers:...
Choosing a network switch for your industrial operation is a bit like picking the right tool for a DIY project. You know what needs to be done, but grabbing a hammer when you really need a screwdriver isn’t going to get you very far. The key is finding the right tool for the job, and with the Stratix series, Rockwell Automation has built a toolbox that’s hard to ignore. Whether you’re looking for the straightforward reliability of the Stratix 5700 or the security-first approach of the Stratix 5900, each switch has a role to play. The question is, how do these tools compare to others in the hardware store? And, more importantly, which one will help you get the job done? Before you start building, let’s dive in and see which tool fits your industrial network best. If you had to pick a go-to switch for handling most industrial network challenges, the Stratix 5700 would be that trusted multi-tool you always keep within reach. Designed for small to medium-sized networks, this switch is all...
The term Machine-to-Machine (M2M) refers to the interaction between two or more devices that are capable of exchanging information without human intervention. It ranges from basic sensor-to-server interactions to complex networks coordinating actions. M2M relies on telemetry for remote data recording and transmission, utilizing wired or wireless channels. Its foundation lies in enabling device communication, fostering automation, and enhancing efficiency. In the world of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication, three essential components work in harmony: hardware, software, and networks. “Tesla Autobots ” by jurvetson is licensed under CC BY 2.0 . Devices such as sensors and servers are the essential components. They play critical roles in data collection and processing. Acts as manager of M2M communication. Coordinates communication protocols and data analysis. Ensures interaction between devices. Provide the platform for device connectivity. Serve as the stage for information...
The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 2000 (Bulletin 2093) Series features multi-axis servo drive modules that support integrated motion through SERCOS (Serial Real-time Communications System) interface. They extend the advantages of Kinetix Integrated Motion on SERCOS network to low-power motion control systems. They also deliver high performance and advanced control capabilities in a smaller footprint, allowing users to improve system performance and productivity while reducing the total cost of ownership and time to market. Kinetix 2000 servo drives are an excellent choice for small and mid-sized motion control applications. Target applications include robotics, material handling, indexing, converting, X-Y tables, textile machinery, Web processing, metal forming, packaging, and electronic assembly. Compact size, innovative design and installation features, easy-to-use components, and simplified wiring 170 to 264V rms AC input, three-phase or single-phase (230V nominal) A wide range of...
The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex750-Series is a comprehensive family of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), also known as AC drives, from Rockwell Automation. These drives provide greater application flexibility, high performance, and an exceptional user experience for a wide array of multi-drive or general-purpose motor control applications. They are appropriate for applications that require speed, torque, and/or position control. The PowerFlex 750-Series offers PowerFlex 753 AC drives with power ratings of 0.5 to 400 Hp (0.37 to 250 kW) for general-purpose motor control applications. For advanced motor control applications, the series offers PowerFlex 755 AC drives that include multiple hardware and control options and an extensive power range of 0.37 to 1500 kW ( 0.5 to 2000 Hp). PowerFlex 750-Series AC drives provide a standard set of innovative features and options aimed at assisting users in improving the productivity of their motion control systems and maximizing their investments...
Have you ever paused to think about how all the fancy gadgets around us function at their core? It all starts with the humble bit, the smallest unit of data in computing. A bit is like an on-off switch; it can be either a 0 or a 1. These tiny bits are the backbone of every digital communication, from your smartphone’s texts to a car’s sophisticated onboard system. Now, let’s scale it up a bit. Eight bits come together to form a byte. If the bits were solo artists, a byte would be their rock band. This ensemble is crucial because, with bytes, we begin to see the formation of something meaningful, such as a single character on your screen or a command to a machine. For instance, the letter ‘A’ in ASCII code is represented by the byte 01000001. Why does this matter in automation? Well, whether programming a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) to manage a production line or setting up a network of sensors, every instruction sent and received is composed of these bits and bytes...
The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex750-Series is a comprehensive family of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), also known as AC drives, from Rockwell Automation that provide greater application flexibility, high performance, and an exceptional user experience for a wide array of multi-drive or general-purpose motor control applications. These drives are appropriate for applications that require speed, torque, and/or position control. For general-purpose motor control applications, the PowerFlex 750-Series offers PowerFlex 753 AC drives with power ratings of 0.5 to 400 Hp (0.37 to 250 kW). And for advanced motor control applications, the series offers PowerFlex 755 AC drives that include multiple hardware and control options, and an extensive power range of 0.37 to 1500 kW ( 0.5 to 2000 Hp). PowerFlex 750-Series AC drives provide a standard set of innovative features and options aimed at assisting users in improving the productivity of their motion control systems and maximizing their...
In today’s industrial landscape, advanced motor control is crucial for improving efficiency, precision, and reliability across various applications. A DC drive is a speed control system for a DC motor that regulates the voltage supplied to the motor and makes sure the motor’s operation remains at the desired speed. This technology is cheaper, more efficient, and reliable. Additional advantages include relatively easier operation and implementation. DC drives are preferred over AC drives for regenerative applications or applications that demand high power output or very fine motor control, such as robotics and transportation. Although VFDs or AC drives are an alternative solution to DC drives, DC drives are still being used extensively in applications such as hoists and cranes, winders, elevators, paper production machines, spindle drives, and crushers. PowerFlex DC drives by Allen-Bradley, part of Rockwell Automation, offer sophisticated digital solutions for precise control and...
The PowerFlex 700H series sets a benchmark in high-performance drives for demanding industrial environments. This drive series, renowned for its superior flexibility, robust design, and advanced control features, offers exceptional speed control and programming capabilities. With a wide array of power ratings and configurations, these drives are manufactured to integrate different application needs, from heavy-duty machinery to precision motor control. The PowerFlex 700H series ensures reliable operation, efficient performance, and easy incorporation into different industrial systems, making this series a good choice for complex and challenging operational demands. The available ratings for this drive series are 200 to 1900 HP at 480 Volts AC, 150 to 2400 Horsepower at 600 Volts AC, and 160 to 2000 kW at 690 Volts AC input. Due to their wide power and voltage ranges, these drives are ideal for a wide range of industrial applications. This drive series has a full-function LCD HIM with...
The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 6200 (Bulletin 2094) are multi-axis servo drives that offer a Kinetix Integrated Motion platform for drive/actuator or drive/motor applications through SERCOS (Serial Real-time Communications System) interface. These drives are available with Safe Torque Off (STO) and Safe Speed Monitoring (SSM) safety options to enhance workplace safety and ensure increased machine productivity. They are also compatible with Kinetix 6000 drive systems, meaning you can upgrade any number of existing Kinetix 6000 drive axes to advanced safety with Kinetix 6200 drives, where needed. In addition, the Kinetix 6200 servo drives feature an innovative modular design that allows for greater machine flexibility and adaptability for future drive improvements, such as increasing the drive’s power or control range by adding a new power or control module. The modular design also allows Kinetix 6200 drive axes to easily transition from SERCOS interface connectivity to EtherNet/IPnetworking...
