Product category:
Plant- and Machine-Wide Communications
News Release from: Rockwell Automation | Subject: Allen-Bradley POINT I/O system
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 14 December 2000
Choice of interfaces with extended I/O
system
New modules to increase the scope and flexibility of the Allen-Bradley POINT I/O system, which is designed to allow users to specify precisely the right number of I/O for an application
Rockwell Automation introduces new modules to increase the scope and flexibility of its class leading Allen-Bradley POINT I/O system The new modules join the existing line-up, designed to allow users to specify precisely the right number of I/O for an application
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 8 Aug 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories
Passport to safety
In today's marketplace, you have to think globally: that is where functional safety can help.
Low-cost gantries provide rapid motion
Rockwell Automation's Hercules low-cost gantries provide the rapid point-to-point motion common in the electronics/general assembly industries.
Mark Daniels, product manager, Rockwell Automation said, "POINT I/O is an outstanding system with a wealth of class leading features.
An increasing number of OEM customers are standardising on POINT I/O because of its low cost, versatility and flexibility.
Whilst OEMs may have to change the type of control equipment depending on the ultimate destination for a machine, using a common I/O system saves engineering time and cost".
Further reading
Small servo drives maintain high precision
The modular design of the Kinetix servo drives helps minimise wiring time and related costs by greatly reducing the total number of connections.
Safety services boost productivity
Through effective hazard assessment, Rockwell Automation safety consultants can evaluate a manufacturer's equipment, identify guarding deficiencies and recommend machine guarding solutions.
Daniels continues, "the new Profibus adaptor and existing DeviceNet module gives the OEM a choice of interfaces, enabling connection to either network and providing true open system connectivity".
POINT I/O is easy to use and systems can be quickly built by simply clicking the modules together on a DIN rail.
Components are colour coded for ease of installation and maintenance, with I/O modules having an orange key slot to ensure they are not exposed to incorrect signal levels.
Field power distribution modules and terminals are dark and light grey respectively.
Terminations can be spring clamp or screw style and the bus connections are gold plated for long term reliability.
POINT I/O is quick and easy to install without the use of tools.
Modules can be added and removed without interrupting the system.
Easy to read LEDs at the system, node and point level provide diagnostic feedback with all status and diagnostic information reported over the DeviceNet and Profibus interfaces.
Being a modular system, over design is avoided and compact dimensions enable the I/O to be mounted in a junction box on the machine rather than take up valuable space in the control panel.
By distributing I/O near the application the cost of wiring and connecting hardware can be significantly reduced.
The small footprint (12mm x 130mm) and 'from the front' insertion, minimises space requirements further reducing installed costs.
Modules can be mounted in any orientation without de-rating or affecting compliance with IEC 1131-2.
Global certifications ensure universal acceptance.
The system comprises three components - a base unit that clips to the DIN rail, an I/O module and a removable wiring system.
This allows the wiring to be disconnected from the module for economic system commissioning, troubleshooting, calibration and diagnosis, providing up to 70% time and cost savings.
The Allen-Bradley POINT I/O system is ideal for suppliers of automation machinery, sub assemblies or islands of automation where optimum flexibility and low cost of ownership are imperative. Request a free brochure from Rockwell Automation ...
• Rockwell Automation: contact details and other news
• Email this article to a colleague
• Register for the free Engineeringtalk email newsletter
• Engineeringtalk Home Page
Search the Pro-Talk network of sites
