We found 61 posts about Communication & Networking from DO Supply, a global automation parts
reseller focused on hard-to-find and obsolete industrial automation products.
The Metasys System is an industry-leading, network-based Building Automation System (BAS) manufactured by Johnson Controls (formerly Johnson Electric Service Company). This system uses advanced technology to integrate HVAC systems, fire protection, lighting, energy management, security, and other subsystems of a commercial building into a centralized control platform, in which the subsystems communicate over a common network to provide a fully optimized building management solution. The Metasys System operates multiple pieces of electrical and mechanical equipment found in modern building systems on a continuously connected IP network to enhance occupant security, safety, comfort, and productivity. It also provides users with real-time data analysis, customizable reporting, and predictive analytics of the connected building subsystems, allowing them to make better and smarter decisions, optimize energy efficiency, and improve how the building functions. The Metasys NU Part Series from...
The manufacturing sector has transformed thanks to industrial automation, which has turned outdated factories into productive intelligence centers. The idea of “smart factories” has emerged due to these developments, where automation technology and networked systems function smoothly to optimize operations. In this post, we’ll look at the crucial elements that lay the groundwork for industrial automation and help to build a smart factory. Modern methods and technologies are used in smart factories to simplify operations, boost output, and improve overall performance. These elements allow automation, data-driven decision-making, and seamless communication throughout the production floor. By adopting industrial automation, manufacturers may gain from higher productivity, lower costs, better product quality, and increased safety. Agile manufacturing techniques, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance are all made possible by the integration of intelligent systems and technology...
RS-485 (Recommended Standard #485), also referred to as EIA-485 or TIA-485 (-A), is a differential signaling standard that defines the electrical properties of receivers and “bused” drivers used to implement balanced multi-point serial communication systems. The standard is jointly developed and maintained by two trade associations: Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA). Serial communication systems implementing the RS-485 standard can be employed effectively in industrial environments characterized by excessive electrical noise. This is because RS-485 networks make use of differential transmission lines that cancel out most of the electromagnetic disturbances gathered up by the RS-485 signals during data transmission. Also, the standard allows for long-cabling lengths of up to 1200 meters and multi-drop bus systems in which multiple communication devices (RS-485 receivers and drivers) can be connected on the same serial bus. These...
According to the study “Fieldbus Technology in Industrial Automation,” published by CiteSeerX, Fieldbus is “a type of communication protocol used in industrial control and automation systems. It provides a standardized method for transmitting data between control devices and control systems, enabling real-time control and monitoring of industrial processes.” (CiteSeerX, “Fieldbus Technology in Industrial Control and Automation Systems”). Fieldbus technology is a widely used communication protocol in industrial settings that facilitates real-time control of manufacturing processes. It differs from traditional RS-232 serial connections as it operates within a network structure that accommodates multiple topologies, including star, bus, ring, mesh, and tree. The Fieldbus protocol enables multiple devices to connect simultaneously, thereby reducing the need for excessive cables and enhancing the overall connectivity efficiency. Another advantage of Fieldbus devices is the presence of a...
Automation is not a new concept and has been used for many years to help businesses improve efficiency, reduce human error, and increase production. Examples of early automation include the printing press, sewing machine, and assembly line for cars. Today, with advancements in technology, such as Robotic Process Automation, more tasks can be automated using digital bots within a company. As automation continues to evolve, it is becoming an increasingly important aspect of business operations. Understanding the basics of automation is crucial for companies looking to implement innovative solutions and enhance their workforce. Automation is the technology that enables tasks or processes to be completed without human involvement. To create an automated system, three main components are necessary: A source of power to drive the process and operate the system. A set of instructions that directs the process A control system that carries out the instructions. The control system is...
Industrial Automation is the use of digital control systems, robotics, and information technologies to control different processes and machinery in an industrial environment to replace human involvement in performing certain functions. These functions primarily focus on material handling, manufacturing, and quality control processes. Concisely, industrial automation makes use of logical programming commands and powerful computer-controlled machinery such as CNC machines to replace human workers on factory floors. At the core of industrial automation are three significant control techniques, namely: Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. These control mechanisms consist of smart and interconnected field input and output devices, field instruments, distributed I/O controllers, supervisory control PCs, and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs). To provide flexible connectivity between the...
For many years, industrial networks were connected using RS232 serial communications, which was limited by only allowing devices in a network to communicate via direct serial connections. This means that if there are N devices per connection, then there would be (N-1) connections available for other communications within the industry. However, in the late 20th century, the Fieldbus International Standard was developed, which marked a significant turning point in connecting these networks, allowing for greater flexibility and scalability than previous technologies did allow for. Fieldbus is a network of computers embedded in various machines at work sites. They allow Input Devices (such as Ethernet Switches and Sensors) to communicate with Output Devices (Valves, Drives) without attaching them to an individual Controller. In summary, Fieldbus systems provide an efficient way to connect different devices to a single industrial network and make it easy to control them at every production...
A PLC is an abbreviation of ‘Programmable Logic Controller.’ It is a programmable controller used in process control and manufacturing automation. PLCs replaced the relay logic control system, which was used in the industry for interlocks and sequential operations. The relay logic was a hard-wired system with many limitations, including difficulty tweaking logic control, upgradation, and troubleshooting. A PLC is an easy-to-use programmable device that can be programmed and reprogrammed to adapt to any control requirement. All the wiring, connections, and functions like timer, counter, and advanced math operations are accessible inside the software. PLCs can perform operations ranging from simple standalone tasks to complex machine control processes. PLCs can be divided into two types: compact and modular. Compact PLCs are small, low-cost, and easy to install. They house all necessary components in a single package, including a fixed number of input and output channels, power supply...
Wire Diameter mil cm mm µm inch Separation Between Wires mil cm mm µm inch Substrate Dielectric Constant Results Impedance Ohms (Ω) Delay ns/in Inductance nH/in Capacitance pF/in You can create an electrical signal transmission line using two conductors. Twisted-pair (TP) cables are known to make the most effective signal transmission lines. A twisted-pair cable simply consists of two insulated wires twisted together. Normally, a pair of 22 to 26-gauge copper wires with an insulating protective layer are used to make a twisted pair wire. In actual use, multiple twisted pairs are wrapped up in an insulating sleeve to form a twisted pair cable. But in daily life, the term “twisted pair cable” directly refers to the “twisted pair wire”. When several twisted pairs are combined, they form multi-pair twisted cables. The individual conductors in multi-pair cables are twisted into pairs that have varying twists to reduce crosstalk. In such cases, specific color combinations are used for pair...
For industrial motion and motor integration, AC and DC drives have become the standard control device of choice. Historically, drives have usually been installed with low-cost point wiring back to a PLC, but modern industrial performance expectations push for network-connected devices in both new and existing systems alike. Connecting a drive to a communication network allows engineers to access all of its features, data, and performance capabilities remotely, in real-time. One well-known series of drives, the Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 520 Series, has an extremely large installation base in the United States and abroad, making it a perfect candidate for upgrading with network connectivity. In this article, we’ll explore communication option cards and their features for the PowerFlex 520 AC Drive Series. Allen-Bradley’s PowerFlex 520 Series of AC Drives spans three models, each designed with a specific application and feature set in mind. PowerFlex 523 PowerFlex 523 AC drives are ideal...
The PowerFlex family of variable frequency drives gives system builders many options to fit both architecture and budget needs. The PowerFlex 525 is part of Allen Bradley’s compact class of AC drives. These drives are modular and are used for stand-alone control applications or for simple control systems. Of the entrants in the 500 series of compact drives, the 525 offers embedded EtherNet/IP and a modular design that helps in tight spaces and easier installs. The 525 also carries standard safety features and can be programmed via USB. Because it is rated to run in temperatures as high as 158 degrees, the PowerFlex 525 can handle harsh environments. The 525 also has the Safe Torque-Off feature for added safety. Setting the IP Address Parameters for the 525 There are two ways to set the IP address in the 525. The first is through using the keypad on the unit itself. The second is using the USB connection and programming from a PC or laptop. Setting the IP Address with the Keypad Step...
Automation and control systems run the gamut from both simple to complex as well as small to large. Allen Bradley’s PanelView Plus 7 was introduced to better visualization for larger and more complex applications. In addition to best-in-class functionality, the PanelView Plus 7 offers a larger screen and much more processing power. In today’s complex manufacturing environments, visualization is critical to manage production or process flow. To do this, companies rely on multiple terminals as well as many PCs for both remote monitoring as well as programming. The PanelView Plus 7’s embedded Ethernet capability and two Ethernet ports allow it to function in a number of complex control solutions such as device level ring topology. The Ethernet connectivity is key to the PanelView Plus 7’s success in allowing managers and technicians direct as well as remote access to configure devices, troubleshoot process issues and review and address alarms. Because of its importance to the PanelView...
Industrial automation has long been at the heart of many of the improvement in manufacturing and process efficiencies across many industries. And the ability to use standardized applications to control devices and equipment at a speed and precision greater than that possible by human range of motion and reaction is one of the key reasons for that reality. As the digital revolution as grown, it has ushered in an accelerated need for improved and evolving control over such devices to handle new capabilities and new inputs from a data stream that is growing exponentially. Even more than a smart home or a connected individual, factories, warehouses, and supply chains are becoming more and more connected to leverage this connectivity to add value to their processes and improve competitiveness. As a result, the sophistication and capability of the communication types and protocols used to drive PLCs and other control equipment has grown and evolved as well. In this article we’ll cover the...
Industrial automation applications range from straightforward to extremely complex depending on the industry. For those just beginning their digital transformation, starting simple and then scaling as the value becomes evident is an accepted path. For others with the technical skillset and IT infrastructure in place, more complicated data needs may dictate a broader and deeper path to digitization. There are other factors to consider as well. For many companies, ROI is high on the list moving forward. And it may also depend on practical factors such as the number of devices that may need to be controlled off multiple I/Os. Finally, practical considerations such as facility layout and age of legacy equipment in a factory may point toward a specific solution as there is still a considerable amount of older manufacturing equipment that needs to be retrofitted. While having the latest and greatest technology is considered optimal, it may not be practical or necessary given considerations...
When you talk about industrial communications these days, two terms tend to show up more than others, EtherNet/IP and ProfiNet. The reasons for this familiarity are simple, these two communication protocols are two of the most common in industry. They are two of several Industrial Ethernet based communication protocols and share the market with other Fieldbus protocols as well. As Ethernet based communications are gaining market share each year, these two protocols will become more prevalent. Both protocols utilize and add on to standard Ethernet technology. One benefit to this is that, with some care in selection, Ethernet/IP and ProfiNet networks do not require specialized equipment for their infrastructure. Standard Cat(x) copper cabling or fiber optic cable, network switches, patch panels, and other standard network devices can be used to build the control network. Care does need to be taken in product selection when designing the control network. Higher capability cabling, such...
