MILWAUKEE, Jan. 19, 2006 – Rockwell Automation has added EtherNet/IP networking connectivity to its Allen Bradley GuardPLC line of safety controllers, helping OEMs and end users cost-effectively share critical safety-related information between safety and standard control systems. “The ability to transfer vital information from the safety system into the standard control system hasn’t always been an easy task for manufacturers,” said Jeff Gellendin, product manager, Safety PLCs, Rockwell Automation.
“The isolation between the two systems can lead to missing diagnostic information, delayed decision-making, and ultimately reduced productivity.”The Allen-Bradley GuardPLC 1600 and 1800 controllers now can leverage the EtherNet/IP open networking protocol, which extends standard, unmodified Ethernet TCP/IP using an open, industrially proven protocol at the application layer. EtherNet/IP allows users to control, configure and collect data over the same network, allowing users to easily deliver control system information throughout the enterprise.
Troubleshooting is also easier with EtherNet/IP; maintenance workers are often already familiar with Ethernet for other applications and don’t need to learn a new network.Rockwell Automation has also added four distributed I/O (DIO) modules to its Allen-Bradley GuardPLC line of safety controllers. The modules include a 8/8 digital input/output, a 16/8 digital input/output, an analog input/output and relay output. The two digital I/O modules have bipolar outputs for use with robot controllers and other specialty output devices. The analog module has eight safety-rated inputs and four standard analog outputs.
The relay module has eight isolated relays that can be used to switch power or provide a dry contact as an enable signal.The GuardPLC 1600 and 1800 controllers feature a built-in, four-port Ethernet switch, making it simple to connect the I/O blocks. With the addition of the EtherNet/IP protocol, an entire Ethernet solution can be implemented using just one wire for both safety and standard network layers, which reduces costs and the time necessary to wire the machine or cell.
The GuardPLC 1600 and 1800 with EtherNet/IP connectivity along with all four new modules for the GuardPLC controller are currently shipping.Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses.
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 21,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.