Modules expand options for controller

GE Fanuc Automation's Serial Communications Module automatically supplies the Modbus message structure including device address, function code and error check information

GE Fanuc Automation has released two new application solution modules for its PACSystems RX3i controller: the RX3i Serial Communications Module and RX3i High Speed Counter.

There are two RX3i Serial Communications Modules, one provides two independent, isolated serial ports and the other provides four independent, isolated serial ports.

Up to six modules can be located in the main PACSystems RX3i backplane.

In addition, each port can be configured for Modbus Master, Modbus Slave, or Serial I/O protocol.

CCM and DNP 3.0 Master/Slave are planned for first half 2007.

Modbus Master mode exchanges with up to 64 individual slaves.

The slaves are set up during module configuration and are easily controlled from the application program with no special messaging required.

"The Serial Communications Module automatically supplies the Modbus message structure including device address, function code and error check information based on configuration of the exchange", said Karl Pickan, European Product Manager for Machine Automation, GE Fanuc Automation Solutions Europe.

The new high-performance RX3i High Speed Counter can be configured for a wide range of counter types (Types A, B, C, D, E, Z and user-defined types of counters).

it generates controller interrupts and provides Camming/PLS (programmable limit switch) functions.

Four-channel and eight -channel versions are available.

The PACSystems RX3i High Speed Counter modules provide direct processing of rapid pulse signals up to 1.5MHz (32bit) for industrial control applications.

"These modules can sense inputs, process input count information and control outputs without burdening the CPU", said Pickan.

"The power of the High Speed Counter flexibility solves a wide range of application issues".

The PACSystems RX3i controller is an integral part of the PACSystems family of programmable automation controllers (PACs).

Like the rest of the family, the PACSystems RX3i features a single control engine and universal programming environment to provide application portability across multiple hardware platforms and deliver a true convergence of control choices.

The RX3i offers a high level of automation functionality in a compact, cost-effective package.

The PACSystems portable control engine provides high-performance on several different platforms, allowing OEMs and end users with application variability to choose the exact control system hardware that best suits their needs.

Both the PACSystems RX3i Serial Communications Module and PACSystems RX3i High Speed Counter are available immediately.

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