Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

February 5, 2012 –Beckhoff Automation released the KL6583-0100 and KL6581 EnOcean modules.The FCC-compliant KL6583-0100 is designed for the 315 MHz frequency band, making it ideal for use in North America. The KL6581 EnOcean master terminal offers greater flexibility in terms of planning and bidirectional communication.

EnOcean technology facilitates the use of wireless and battery-less sensors, switches, energy harvesters and more for building and home automation. The range of the battery-free transmitter and receiver is extendable up to a maximum data bus length of 500 m (1,640 ft) with the connection of up to eight EnOcean modules to the master terminal. That not only delivers cost advantages, but also makes the planning and implementation of building automation systems significantly simpler and more flexible.

Previously, only the reception of EnOcean data was possible via the Beckhoff wireless adapter; now all of the EnOcean sensors and actuators can be connected using the new KL6581 EnOcean master terminal and the KL6583-0100 transmitter and receiver module. With a radio signal range of at least 30 m (98 ft), the wiring of buildings can be simplified significantly.

EnOcean radio technology is integrated into the Beckhoff Bus Terminal system via electronic terminal blocks. Higher-level Bus Couplers for all common bus and Ethernet systems enable a flexible connection to higher level controllers. The KL6583-0100 modules are connected to the KL6581 master terminal via two wires for the power supply and two wires for the data bus. The sub-bus employed by Beckhoff is CAN, an economical and interference-resistant bus system with high data security that relays the EnOcean telegrams using an event-controlled method.
 

The EnOcean transmitter and receiver module can be installed in visible locations within buildings thanks to its simple, yet elegant appearance – a plain, round housing with a diameter of 72 mm and a height of 57 mm (2.8 in x 2.2 in).

Beckhoff Automation provides advanced, open automation products based upon proven technologies so that customers can implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC based control, industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interface, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 60 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.