Flexible new PLC covers changing requirements

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 13, 2001

Crouzet is introducing a flexible, adaptable and powerful logic controller specifically designed to suit the needs of machinery, building management and temperature control applications.

Crouzet introduces Millenium II, a flexible, adaptable and powerful logic controller specifically designed to suit the needs of machinery, building management and temperature control applications.

It is available in four distinct versions to suit different needs - all extremely easy to program.

The top of the range XT comes complete with a backlit LCD display and simple to use parameter setting buttons.

It has 12 inputs and 8 outputs in standard form, but is expandable, enabling it to adapt to users' changing requirements.

Extension modules can increase the number of I/O points by 50%, provide external communications using Modbus or AS-I and form transparent links between two XT units to double the I/O count.

In order to provide users with exactly the controller they need, three further versions are offered in two sizes - 8 inputs with 4 outputs and 12 inputs with 8 outputs.

The type SA has all the capability of the XT but is a stand-alone unit without the expansion capability.

For users needing an even lower cost unit without the programming facility, the type EC is available without the display or parameter setting buttons.

And for the ultimate solution to mass production needs, type CN is available as a 'bare board' version.

Although offering all the powerful logic functions required for sophisticated control, the second generation Millenium II is incredibly easy to program.

It comes with the most extensive library of pre-programmed software blocks on the market, with application-specific functions including pump rotation, cam timer, data archiving and mathematical calculations.

Instead of taking hours to create, these only require the operator to enter the operating parameters.

Crouzet can also offer a range of other pre-programmed functions on request.

In addition, Millenium II is the only controller on the market allowing the user the flexibility to combine logic functions with sequential flow chart blocks.

Program size has been doubled to provide up to 128 function blocks, while user-friendly Crouzet Logic Software - provided free on CD-ROM with every Millenium II controller starter kit - simplifies the design of programs to control, monitor and simulate the application.

The Millenium II has been designed with three application sectors specifically in mind: • OEMs and machine builders, where small machines benefit from the adaptability and simplicity of installation.

The communications option and ease of expansion is also suitable for larger, modular machines, while the bare board version offers OEMs the lowest cost for volume machines; • Building management, where the pre-programmed software functions greatly reduce installation and commissioning times, and analogue inputs and calendar time clock make it easy to control and monitor a range of building services including lighting, heating, access control etc; • Temperature control, where the ease of heating cycle design using the built in software functions plus the ease of expansion make Millenium II the ideal choice.

The Millenium II offers programming via PC, memory cartridge or modem link, battery backup to provide up to 10 years data storage in the event of power failure, password protection and the ability to transfer programs from first generation Millenium controllers to the latest units if required.

Input options include contact, 3-wire PNP, analogue 1-10V and potentiometer, while outputs are volt free contact and include one changeover contact or solid state with pulse width modulation (PWM) on static output units.

The Millenium II provides all the power required for the most sophisticated machinery, building and temperature control applications, while offering unrivalled speed and ease of programming.

The flexibility of the different solutions on offer ensure a bespoke solution to all requirements at an off the shelf price.

In engineering control terms, the Millenium II is truly whatever you want it to be.

(This was Engineeringtalk's Top Story on 12 December 2001).