14 / 60
ROUND UP
CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION
Mobile mini controller – high current relay outputs
The compact, flexible and inexpensive mini
controller, available from
ifm electronic
,
replaces the conventional relay logic and
demanding and complex process control-
lers. The control electronics integrated in
a compact plastic housing provides all the
necessary connections for the inputs and
outputs, communication and programming.
The coded connectors for mobile use are
easy to handle and available all over the
world.The connection of sensors and actua-
tors is carried out without further external
wiring. Due to an increase of the protection
rating through a cover and a pluggable cable
seal the BasicController can also be used in
areas that are exposed to splashing water.
The integrated 32-bit processor and the elec-
tronics are optimally tailored to the applica-
tion. Inputs and outputs can be configured
to the application via the user program.The
powerful plug-in relay outputs ensure the
connection of high-current consumers. All
relay outputs are with diagnostic capability
and individually protected. Each output has
a freely programmable status LED. Thanks
to the additional multi-functional inputs a
flexible control module for mobile machines
is available.
The CODESYS software enables a clear
and easy creation of the application software
for the user. The control module BasicCo-
ntroller supports all common CODESYS
programming languages. Simple and clearly
structured function libraries are available
for communication and special device func-
tions.
Enquiries: Alwyn Skelton.Tel. +27 (0) 12 450
0400 or email
info.za@ifm.comLong range fibre amplifier with
analogue output
Banner Engineering
, represented locally by
RETAutomation
Controls
, has introduced its long-range DF-G3 fibre amplifier
with analogue output. With world-class long range sensing
capability, the DF-G3 can sense more than three metres
with opposed mode fibres or more than one metre with dif-
fuse mode fibres. The extra power, combined with its new
analogue output, enables the DF-G3 to provide increased
detection reliability for contrast matching, intensity monitor-
ing, web guiding, process monitoring of signal intensity and
dense sensing point environments.
“We enhanced the DF-G3 fibre amplifier to include both an
analogue and digital output to solve more of our customer's
applications,” said Dennis Smith, SeniorTechnical Marketing
Manager, Banner Engineering. “With unmatched sensing
power, convenient combination of both output types in one
amplifier, and an easy-to-use interface, the DF-G3 is optimal
for difficult detection challenges in assembly error-proofing,
consumer packaging, and electronic assembly markets
around the world.”
The DF-G3 offers a simple interface to ensure easy setup
and programming via displays and switches.The easy-to-read
dual digital displays show both signal level and threshold
simultaneously. Users can also setup the sensor remotely
via a multi-function input wire which can be configured to
control the LED, gate the amplifier’s output, remote teach the
amplifier, or set up a robust cross-talk avoidance ring with up
to seven amplifiers to solve dense sensing point applications.
Enquiries: BrandonTopham.
Ease your vacuum generation
In response to increasing demand for integrated vacuum generation sys-
tems,
SMC
has launched its new Series ZHP vacuum pad with ejector. An
energy efficient single compact unit, the ZHP can be easily mounted in
confined spaces due to its innovative design that removes the need for
further components, making it simple to order and maintain.
The vacuum unit features an innovative lock-plate structure that allows
easy one-touch replacement of the pad.This means that pads can be easily
attached and detached for disposal, minimising maintenance. The use of
an enhanced two-stage ejector improves vacuum generation efficiency,
delivering an increase in suction flow rate of 50% and a reduction of air
consumption of 30%.
Brain Abbott, Product Manager at SMC Pneumatics South Africa, elabo-
rates that: “The ZHP Series has been designed to make life as simple as
possible for our customers.Thanks to its innovative design and ease of use,
we have achieved that and more and initial feedback from our customers
has been very positive.”According toAbbott, the ZHP offers a trio of vacuum
port locations which provide a variety of connections for other equipment,
like pressure sensors, and creates
the opportunity for daisy-chain pip-
ing, allowing for multiple devices to
be connected in sequence, reducing
piping requirements. The ZHP has
further design qualities, including
a through-hole silencer that signifi-
cantly reduces noise levels and the
risk of clogging.
Enquiries:
Brian Abbott –
Product Manager,
SMC Pneumatics.
Electricity+Control
April ‘16
12