Blocks boast faster connection times

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 22, 2004

Faster connection times, high-speed terminal marking systems and more cost-effective procurement are just some of the benefits on offer from Allen-Bradley 1492 terminal block range.

Allen-Bradley 1492 terminal blocks are now available in three connection types: screw, IDC and spring clamp.

Distribution blocks, fuses, mini blocks and sensor blocks are also available as part of the range.

Major design improvements have been carried out across the board resulting in higher ratings and a more compact size, plus new features such as the ability to use multiple jumper channels on some feed through blocks, enabling neater and faster interconnections.

Allen-Bradley's screw terminal range has been expanded by the addition of the new 1492 J series products.

1492-J is a conventional screw terminal block offering cost and space savings.

The new design 1492-J type has higher block ratings and improved marker visibility, and also features wider cable entry for easier connections.

Feedthrough blocks can also be fitted with multiple jumper bars using screwed or screwless jumpers.

The new 1492-L spring clamp and 1492-K IDC type terminator blocks are designed to greatly increase termination speed.

The spring clamp technology employed in the 1492-L is growing in popularity with OEMS because it typically offers 30 to 50% faster connection times than screw type terminals.

Improved design makes the 1492-L an extremely reliable alternative to single wire screw termination.

As the wire is retained under constant tension, 1492-L performs exceptionally well, often better than screw-types, in high-vibration environments.

1492-K type terminals are insulation displacement connectors (IDC), suitable for use with both stranded and solid core wire.

Insulation displacement offers the fastest and most convenient method of connection in many applications as it removes the need to strip insulation and ferule the conductor prior to termination.

The chances of manufacturing errors occurring where, for example, too much insulation is stripped during termination, are also greatly reduced.

Thanks to the comprehensive and competitively priced range now available from Allen-Bradley, OEMs are able to simplify their ordering process by sourcing terminals as well panel hardware from their local Allen-Bradley distributor.

Choosing the right product is made easy using the handy pocket selection guide available from Allen-Bradley distributors.

To complement the new design terminals, Rockwell Automation is also offering a new terminal marking system.

Based around a dedicated inkjet printer, the new Fast Track system enables OEMs and SIs to produce superb quality printed markers up to twice as fast as the old plotter-based system, with no waiting for ink to dry, messy ink pens or special base plates required.

Fast Track allows different fonts, styles and layouts, and is easy to setup and use.

Allen-Bradley AB Print software, which comes bundled with the Fast Track printer, allows any type of custom marker to be produced with ease, while an optional automatic feeder allows OEMs to produce standard sets of markers quickly and efficiently.

AB Print is compatible with PCs running Windows 98 or later.

1492 JKL termination blocks and the Fast Track marking system are the latest additions to the 1492 family of products, intended to make the process of prototyping and production as fast and efficient as possible.

Over 40 different prewired cable assemblies and terminal modules are available as part of the 1492 range, which can eliminate up to 50% of the point-to-point wiring between I/O modules, sensors and actuators.

With the expansion of their range of termination options, OEM's need look no further than Allen-Bradley for all their panel needs.