So, you have finally managed to select the appropriate iQ-R output module for your application, but realise that it has a 40-pin connector on the front-face as opposed to the usual screw terminals. So what do you do?
Do not worry, as the ‘FA Goods Product Selection Tool’ will take away endless amounts of time looking through catalogues, manuals and pin configurations.
This easy-to-use tool can be used to select the recommended Mitsubishi terminal blocks and cables for all of the Modular PLC’s in the Mitsubishi range, from A-Series up to the latest iQ-R offering.
Feel free to save the link below into your web-browser, and refer to it whenever you need it.
Professional automation for your system: I/O systems from Phoenix Contact are the ideal solution for data transfer at input and output level. Whether in the field, in a control cabinet, as a customizable modular system or with a block design. Whichever network or protocol you prefer – we have the right I/Os for you.
Your advantages
Versatile use, thanks to international approvals, wide range of functions, and network openness
High system availability and increased productivity, thanks to very reliable products
More future-proof, thanks to the use of innovative technologies
I/O systems for every application
More choice: I/O devices from Phoenix Contact for every applications
You will find the perfect I/O devices for signal acquisition in Phoenix Contact’s extensive I/O product range.
Proven technology provides the basis for innovative products with useful features – continuous improvements are achieved through close customer contact and forward-looking developments.
Choose from an extensive range of I/O modules and I/O terminals for the control cabinet – including for very fast data communication.
I/O devices that support modular extension and have a high degree of functionality can be used in the field or particularly robust devices with a block design can be used for harsh industrial environments.
Implement safety applications with our PROFIsafe modules or with no safety controller at all using SafetyBridge Technology.
Clever connection technologies, such as Push-in Technology or SPEEDCON fast locking system, enable convenient and time-saving wiring.
Our IO-Link/analog converters and the IO-Link masters also provide a high degree of flexibility in the field and can be used to implement analog communication without any shielded cables.
For more detailed information on Phoenix’s I/O System products, please see the links below:
On this year’s Drives and Control Stand Mitsubishi previewed a prototype of the new MELFA CoBOT. This arm will be aimed at the collaborative robot market offering increased rapidity and higher IP rating than the competition as well as easy to use software, direct teaching and collision detection. Mitsubishi showcased a MELFA Robot mounted on an automated guided vehicle (AGV) showing alternatives to conceptual uses for these products.
On-Line Configurators
The online configurators for iQ-R, iQ-F, Q series, L series, F series and networks have been updated on the Mitsubishi web site. New features include:
– Quickly visualise the number of I/O points and total current consumption required for modules during selection.
– “Purchase list” with selected module name and quantity can be printed.
– “Configuration chart” based on selected models can be printed
– Configuration Image can be printed
One of the great features of the iQ-F range is that we can update the CPU’s firmware, giving customers the ability to take advantage of new features and performance enhancements even on existing installations.
The latest version is 1.060 and is available for download from the MyMitsubishi site. Installation is simple and is executed using a standard SD memory card. The best place to check how to update the iQ-F is in the e-manual (just search for “firmware update function” in the iQ-F FX5 User’s Manual (application)).
The attached document contains more details plus additional information about the new FX5 analogue modules that were recently added to the range.
Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field of science that includes a combination of mechanical engineering, electronics and Control Systems and despite being around for more than 50 Years, today we are seeing a real time need to connect Industry. To ensure that we continue to move with current industry trends CDL has brought together a few of their strongest Manufacturers at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry where they were able to showcase new products and integrated solutions that combined, strenghtens their systems with Industry 4.0 and The Internet of Things placing them firmly at the front of their mind.
The Mechatronics workshop was centered around the Mitsubishi Automation Platform, and supported by key manufacturers such as SMC, SICK and SMAC. Each manufacturer presented live presentations of their showcased lineup and performed in-house product demonstrations along with Q&A session at the end of each section.
SMAC: Precision Electric Actuators and the famous SMAC actuator hand
SICK: Inspection/Vision cameras and Scanners.
In addition to the live presentations an open exhibition area was available, where attendees could discuss individual systems and products in greater depth with numerous application specialists.
Mitsubishi Factory Automation Product Manager Barry Weller talking through the many Features and Benefits of using the New IQF and IQR PLC Platforms
As an added benefit guests were also offered a guided tour of the MTC and given exclusive availability around
their spectacular premises to see up close the latest manufacturing technologies from some of the UK’s most innovative manufacturing businesses
CDL are planning to run more similar events throughout 2017 so keep checking our social media feeds, website and Blog for further details regarding future events.
New from Mitsubishi is the FR-A800 Frequency Inverter which has been designed for unparalleled drive precision, speed control, simple start-up, and versatility. The Mitsubishi FR-A800 is a new generation of drive technology.
Mitsubishi’s FR-A800 has some outstanding features which include the integrated high level PLC, USB port for programming and parameter copying, an-easy to-read control panel, optimum power usage and energy saving functions, improved system safety, three expansion slots for a range of option and supported network card.
The FR-A800 Series is fully backwards compatible with the FR-A700 series and its parameters can be easily copied by FR Configurator2. In order to match the former machine response time, the input/output signals of the FR-A800 can be delayed.
The FR-A800 series has some powerful features and intelligent functions which include a two channel emergency stop for safe shutdown. This ensures safe operation in compliance with the European Machinery Directive without installation of another contactor. The FR-A800 thus conforms to the EN ISO13849-1/PLd cat. 3, EN 61508 and EN 61800-5-2 SIL2 standards.
The operation panel with the one touch Digital Dial allows direct access to all important parameters. The FR-A800 series also allows the connection of a Mitsubishi Electric graphical operation terminal (GOT). Communication parameters for the HMI connection are automatically set as a batch.
The FR-A800 has a built in EMC filter which ensures full compliance with European EMC Directive standards (EN 61800-3 2nd environment category C3), so separate certification is not required for the drive. To suit your application, take advantage of the energy saving function, the impressive savings can be displayed on the energy monitor. With an estimated lifespan of 10 years, the cooling fans and built in capacitors can be further extended by using the ON/OFF control function
The FR-A800 can be controlled and monitored by a controller via network. Communication options are available for the major network protocols such as CC-Link IE Field, CC-Link, Profibus DP/DPV1, Profinet/Ether- Net IP/EtherCat (to be released soon) and SSCNETIII/H as well as DeviceNet™ and LONWORKS. RS485 communication (Mitsubishi Electric drive protocol, Modbus-RTU protocol) is supported as standard.
Mitsubishi FR-A800:-
High Speed Response: With a speed response of 50Hz, A800 to respond to a change in motor load. A800 reacts to a speed signal much faster too – between 2 to 3 ms as opposed to 5 to 20 ms with A700.
Wide Speed Range: 200:1 speed range open loop, 1500:1 closed loop speed range.
Extended Maximum Speed: A standard A800 VFD can drive high speed motors at up to 590Hz, compared to the A700’s 400Hz.
IPM Motor Control: Standard A800 VFDs can drive the new generation IPM (Internal Permanent Magnet) motors, such as the Marathon ‘SyMAX’ series.
Safety Stop: A800 is a SAFETY drive. “STO” capability enables SIL2 / PLd category emergency stops.
Compatible with USB stick: VFD settings can be easily uploaded or downloaded and ‘black box’ operating data at the time of a drive trip can be copied for diagnosis using the FR-Configurator software.
GOT interface: Automatic connectivity to GOT 2000 series GOTs without the need to change any parameters.
Improved PLC: A800 has a new internal PLC based around the Mitsubishi ‘L series’ processor. Instructions in the form of ‘Function Blocks’ can now be used.
Conformal Coating: All A800 VFDs have Conformal Coated boards as standard.
If you would like a brochure emailing over or require a quotation, get in touch !
Westermo has announced the release of 7 new industrial routing switches signalling a step forward in networking performance at the edge of industrial mission critical networks.
The density of equipment at the network edge has increased as well as needs such as enhanced security and network resilience, hence the need for a new generation of industrial Ethernet switches.
RedFox is a high performance layer 3 industrial Ethernet switch designed for high network traffic applications. Seven new switch configurations are available that can be customised further with SFP transceivers. Two models, the RFI-207-F4G-T3G and RFI-211-F4G-T7G, offer gigabit connections on all ports. The RFI-219-F4G-T7G offers 19 ports altogether including 7 SFP fibre ports in a robust and compact DIN rail mount industrial housing.
The RedFox is designed for use in heavy duty industrial applications in it’s robust aluminium housing and has been tested both by Westermo and external test houses to meet many EMC, isolation, vibration and shock standards, all to the highest levels suitable for heavy industrial environments and rail track side application.
RedFox is powered by the Westermo WeOS network operating system which is now delivered in 70 different models in the Westermo range. WeOS has been developed by Westermo to allow us to offer cross platform and future proof solutions. WeOS can deliver unique IP security functionality for this class of product, for instance a Multiport DMZ can be constructed by utilising the firewall function available in every port. Remote secure access to a network can be provided using encrypted VPNs.
As a Layer 3 routing switch the RedFox is capable of delivering enterprise type routing functionality with OSPF, RIP and VRRP as well as process level ring recovery times of around 20ms even at speeds of 1 gbit/sec utilising Westermo’s FRNT protocol.
It has wide power range 19-60VDC on dual power inputs for resilience and requires 30% less power than the previous generation of products, a significant benefit for lifetime running costs. A wide operating temperature range –40 to +70°C (–40 to +158°F) can be achieved with no moving parts or cooling holes in the case.
Contact us if you require any further information.
Phoenix Contact has introduced a new app for configuring and printing marking material using your smartphone or tablet.
First you need to log into Google Play on a PC to check the compatibility of your Google registered device and if it is, you can use the new Marking System App on your android smartphones and tablets with Bluetooth connectivity.
The great thing about this app is no prior knowledge of marking material is required, the search assistant will filter the options for Phoenix Contact and their competitors DIN rail terminal markers. On top of this, the product scanner can conveniently and quickly call up all possible marking materials for your application. All you have to do is scan the barcode on the packaging of your Phoenix Contact product to be labelled. Also included within the App is wire, equipment and plant marking.
Having selected the appropriate template via the material editor, you can edit adding the required text or symbols. Once you have completed your template, you can save as a file and archive within a named folder.
You can then print your jobs easily sent via a wireless data exchange to either the THERMOMARK card or roll printer. This has to be upgraded with the addition of the MINI FD BLUETOOTH, Phoenix article number 0830986.
Contact us if you require any further information.
Mitsubishi Electric has raised the bar for HMIs with the GOT2000 series, designed to optimise operator control and the monitoring of device and line status.
With vastly increased performance, advanced functionality, seamless connectivity to other automation devices, highly intuitive nature, tablet-like operation and high quality graphics, the GOT2000 series provides a range of models and sizes to meet the needs of the broadest spread of applications.
With their enhanced functionality, these HMIs extend capabilities beyond monitoring and visualisation, providing additional features that will help to reduce downtime, enable fast recovery from simple errors, increase availability and boost production efficiency. In addition, a software HMI version, the GT SoftGOT2000, realises all of the GOT2000 features on a PC or panel computer.
The GOT2000 offers seamless connectivity to Mitsubishi Electric automation devices such as PLCs, variable speed drives, servo drives and robots, simplifying automation system set up. Built-in Ethernet communication means users can operate the GOT2000 remotely from a PC (VNC Server) or even from a tablet or portable terminal. An MES interface option enables the GOT2000 to transmit data collected from PLCs and other automation devices directly to higher level system databases, eliminating the need for gateway PCs or complex programming. Furthermore, the GOT2000 comes with the “FA transparent” function that enables users to link from a PC through the HMI to any supported connected automation products.
FEAUTURES AND BENEFITS
Benchmark performance
Increased memory size
Multi-touch/gestures*
Beautiful graphics
Advanced communications
Easy screen design
Backwards compatibility
Horizontal integration
* Some functions such as Multi-touch/gesture are only available on certain models
For further information or to receive a quotation, please contact us.
At the Eden Project, as well as maintaining all the mechanical plant on site, there is also the need to maintain the living plant displays in the biomes and surrounding areas. This is done mostly by growing new specimens from seed or cuttings, and sometimes buying in new plant material. Every seed/plant which comes to our nursery site is inspected for any unwanted pests or diseases, and depending on perceived risk, may be quarantined. All tropical material is quarantined for several months before it can join the main collections in order to eliminate the chance of a damaging pest outbreak in the biomes.
At the nursery there was initially a 2MW oil fired boiler which heated the main 5000m2 glasshouse, and also the physically remote quarantine houses. In 2009 this was replaced by a fully modulating gas boiler set 0-600kw, controlled by a custom programmed Priva BMS system and heated area reduced to 2000m2. At that time, the quarantine facility was not heated from the main system, but by a very basic local control gas air heater.
In 2013 the basic gas air heater had deteriorated to such an extent in the warm moist conditions, that it was no longer economic to keep it in operation. It was replaced by a sturdy LPG fired cabinet modulating air heater (36-72kw output) and linked to the BMS system.
Michael Cutler, Horticultural Technical Engineer at Eden Project explains, “In order to control the heater we needed to run control cables all the way back to the control room and pick up the BMS wiring. To ensure the best chance of reliability of operation for this heater, we installed a good quality branded cable – 200metres of Lütze Silflex 12C, 0.75mm2, YY. The 12 cores enable: control of the relays which activate the fan and enable heat output, modulation level 0-20mA, and supply/return duct temperatures, and lock out signal.
We also used 3C, 2.5mm2, CY cable (also obtained from Lütze) to run power from the DB in at the quarantine house door to the heater and control panel.
The cables were easy to work with, the outer jacket stripped nicely without sticking to the cores, the individual cores was flexible enough to enable forming and wiring into DIN rail terminals, and the core numbers were easily identifiable. On top of that, prices were better than our hitherto existing suppliers, and customer service had been excellent. We would always consider using Lütze cables, where appropriate, for our projects or maintenance activities”.
If you would like more information on Lutze cables, please contact us.
Many thanks for viewing, please feel free to leave comments below!
Formed in 1990, Controls and Drives Ltd, is based in its own purpose-designed premises in Leicester and is the only Mitsubishi Technology Partner in the Midlands.
iQ-F firmware update, new features
