New interface converter expands DH-485 connectivity options for Allen-Bradley SLC 500, MicroLogix and ControlLogix controller platforms
MILWAUKEE, Dec. 8, 2003 - Complete Automation leader Rockwell Automation has announced that it now provides enhanced programmable logic controller (PLC)-to-PC connectivity with its new Universal Serial Bus (USB)-to-DH-485 interface converter. The 1747-UIC Interface Converter allows computers with USB ports to be connected to DH-485 ports located on SLC 500, MicroLogix and ControlLogix controllers, as well as PanelView terminals, and 1747-AIC and 1761-NET-AIC isolators. This provides a direct link to these devices for programming, data gathering and monitoring of plant-floor activities." USB ports are becoming the standard with new computers being sold today.
Our customers were asking for a method of connecting their computer USB port to our SLC and MicroLogix programmable controllers," said Jim Wuethrich, marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. "With more than 1.5 million SLC 500 and MicroLogix units sold worldwide, the interface converter is poised to help a significant number of customers." The 1747-UIC Interface Converter connects to SLC, MicroLogix, ControlLogix and PanelView products using existing programming cables. A 12-inch cable is provided for connection to the computer USB port.
Power for the unit is provided by the USB port; no external power is required.The interface converter provides a choice of two DH-485 ports, which are switch- selectable. One port is an RJ-45 connector for connection to SLC 500, SLC 5/01, SLC 5/02, SLC 5/03, AIC, and PanelView products with DH-485 ports. The second port is an RS-232 DB9 for connection to channel 0 on SLC 5/03 and higher CPUs, AIC+, MicroLogix, CompactLogix, FlexLogix, ControlLogix, and PanelView products with RS-232 ports.
The converter interfaces to RSLinx version 2.42 using a standard DF1 driver and is compatible with Microsoft Windows 98, ME, 2000, and XP operating systems. RSLinx versions prior to version 2.42 require drivers for the UIC and USB port to be installed. The drivers are provided with the 1747-UIC product.
The converter also embeds the DH-485 driver compatible with the existing RSLinx DF1 RS-232 full-duplex driver, eliminating the need for this driver to be installed.Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) is a world-leading provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help customers meet their manufacturing productivity objectives. The company brings together leading brands in industrial automation for Complete Automation solutions, including Allen-Bradley controls and engineered services and Rockwell Software factory management software, Dodge mechanical power transmission products, and Reliance Electric motors and drives.
The company also is a leading provider of contact management technologies and applications that help companies more efficiently manage interaction with their own customers. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., USA, the company employs about 22,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
For more information on the 1747-UIC USB to DH-485 interface converter, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, Ext. 1669.