MILWAUKEE, July 21, 2005 — Rockwell Automation has enhanced the PLC-5 Series F EtherNet/IP Processors and Series C Interface Modules to include a new enhanced performance communications processor. The new products incorporate redesigned communications circuitry and operating system firmware. The redesigned Series F Ethernet Processors and Series C Interface Modules will now provide 10/100Mbps Ethernet, allowing them to be applied in larger, more demanding high-throughput applications. This enhancement will significantly improve the performance of the PLC-5 for users. “Many Ethernet networks operate using the 100Mbps baud rate,” said Jeff Ipser, product marketing manager at Rockwell Automation.
“Earlier PLC-5 processors were designed with only 10 Mbps communication capability. By offering this enhancement, we continue to protect our customer’s investment in the PLC-5 platform.” Expanded messaging capability has also been added to the products, allowing for event trigger e-mails to be sent by the PLC-5. These e-mail notifications can be used to notify users of important machine based events as they occur. An upgrade to RSLogix 5 software is required to setup the e-mail messaging capabilities and allow optimized communication configuration of the new series products.
In addition, by upgrading RSLogix 5 software, users will have the capability to enable or disable auto-negotiation for selection of speed and duplex for the Ethernet channel. Users may disable auto-negotiation and select from four fixed speed/duplex settings: 10Mbps half-duplex, 10Mbps full-duplex, 100Mbps half-duplex, or 100Mbps full-duplex. The PLC-5 Series F processors and Series C Interface Modules have also been redesigned with a RJ45 connector on the faceplate. This allows direct connection of CAT5 network cabling, eliminating the need for an external transceiver.The PLC-5 Series C Interface Module with 10/100 Mbps enhancements will be available in August 2005.
The PLC-5 Series F processors with 10/100 Mbps enhancements will be available in February 2006.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 20,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.For more information on the PLC-5 Series F EtherNet/IP Processors and Series C Interface Modules please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, ext. 1833.Visit their website at www.rockwellautomation.com .