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Read the online version if links don't work in this PLCopen Update. |
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March 2009 |
Sponsor: Beckhoff Automation |
Boost your system performance, not your controls expenses!
TwinCAT® is the PLCopen-compliant automation software package from Beckhoff Automation. This IEC 61131-3 programming environment turns any compatible PC into a dynamic, yet low cost multi-PLC and motion system for high end automation.
Beckhoff offers TwinCAT without the yearly upgrade fees, expensive service contracts or other hidden costs often seen from other PLC software platforms.
Download a 30-day trial of TwinCAT.
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| In this Issue |
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| Featured Articles |
Do PLCs Eliminate Need for a DCS?
By Bill Lydon, Contributing Editor
In the past it was fairly easy to determine whether a PLC or a DCS was right for an application but in recent years this has become more difficult. It is argued that more powerful PLC products coupled with new software tools provide an integrated process control system rivaling a distributed control system (DCS) for process control applications.
Understanding the IEC61131-3 Programming Languages
By Ted Thayer, Bosch-Rexroth
Long dismissed as just being a European phenomenon, the IEC’s programmable controller languages are gaining traction in the United States. This white paper provides a brief overview and comparison of each of the five main PLC/PAC programming languages.
Product Spotlight: Micro DCS - Small to Midrange Process Control
Our contributing editor, Bill Lydon, recently reviewed the newest hardware and features of the ABB Freelance control system. ABB describes Freelance as a small footprint DCS for small to medium sized plants in the process industry and for applications requiring DCS functionality in a compact system with intuitive and efficient engineering tools.
XML Control Logic Standard Gains Acceptance as Digital Factory Interface
By Bill Lydon, Managing Director, PLCopen North America
Open non-proprietary interface allows users to pick the best of breed production hardware and software including PLC, PAC, PLM, modeling, and simulation software to make virtual design and production simulation a reality.
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| Product Announcements |
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| Resources & Literature |
PLCopen releases Motion Control Part 3
This document covers user guidelines, and is the third part of a set of documents of the PLCopen Task Force Motion Control.
PLCopen publishes Logic, Motion and Safety paper
Document provides examples and guidance for the combination of the different technologies, making it easier for a user to integrate safety in a motion and logic application.
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Browse more resources and literature on the PLCopen portal.
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| Application Stories |
ABB PLCs control Schindler transit escalators
The Schindler Group uses ABB PLCs, IEC61131-3 programming, and drives on all transit escalators it installs in the United States.
Welder takes safety to next level
Process & Control Today, December 2008
Lamba Welding Systems in Richmond, North Yorkshire, uses the QS safety relay in a Mitsubishi Q series PLC as the basis of a new integrated control and safety system for a refurbished resistance welding machine.
Off-the-Shelf PLC Optimizes Motion Control Functionality
Control Engineering, June 2008
By Matthias Erhardt, Siemens SEA
A PLC handles control functionality with built-in integration of parison control, synchronized camming of blow pins with carriages, linear positioning of shuttles, and 30 zones of heat control.
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Browse more application stories on the PLCopen portal.
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| Featured Training |
New PLCopen Training Certifications
Shanghai Institute of Process Automation Instrumentation (SIPAI) and Campus De Nayer have become PLCopen Certified Training Centers.
Online CoDeSys Programming Course
Alexandria Technical College’s online training course for the CoDeSys IEC 61131-3 software introduces the participant to the CoDeSys development environment and provide the competence for efficient reusable code development.
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Browse more training and seminar opportunities on the PLCopen portal.
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| Company & Organizational News |
Eaton, ISAC and Copalp join PLCopen
In the first quarter of 2009 three new members joined PLCopen: Eaton Corporation - Hydraulics Group (USA), ISAC (Italy) and Copalp (France).
PLCopen certifies Smart Software Solutions
PLCopen certified SSS for Motion Control Compliance (part 1 and 2).
Beckhoff appoints Joe Martin to Packaging Sales Manager
Previously, Martin was Director of Sales at Holt Electric, Inc., a major Midwest electrical distributor based in Hartland, WI.
PLCopen certifies Bernecker & Rainer
PLCopen certified B&R's SafeDESIGNER product, version 2.58.
PLCopen updates Compliance Testing & Certification specs
Specs for certification of IEC 61131-3 editors have been updated for the first time since 1998.
GE Fanuc PACMotion meets PLCopen motion control standard
PACMotion fulfills the requirements in PLCopen Compliance Procedure for Motion Control Library V. 1.1 and Part 2 – Extensions, Version 1.0.
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Browse more company and organizational news on the PLCopen portal. |
| Featured Events |
Hannover Messe
April 20 - 24 Hannover, Germany
HANNOVER MESSE is the world's leading industrial technology trade fair. Established 60 years ago, the event is internationally renowned for new products, innovative technologies, and knowledge transfer in sectors that range from automation, energy, and microtechnology to compressed air, power transmission, and surface treatment. HANNOVER MESSE also features an extensive range of conferences and special events, including Energy Efficiency, Global Business Forum, World Energy Dialogue, and Hermes Award, the world's most lucrative prize for pioneering technology.
ISA International Instrumentation Symposium
June 1-5, 2009 League City, Texas
The 55th annual ISA IIS covers electronic instrumentation, wireless technology, Cybersecurity, aerospace systems, process measurement and control, and more.
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Browse more industry events on the PLCopen portal.
Add an event to our calendar. |
I hope you enjoyed this PLCopen update. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding the content in this e-newsletter or on Automation.com, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Rick Zabel
Vice President, Publisher
Automation.com
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