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Hannover Fair 2013 exclusive show report

23 June, 2013
and higher-level networks via a pair of Gigabit Ethernet ports. The Gigabit Security Router has a built-in firewall and other security functions. It can prioritise and channel network traffic and map IP addresses. Built-in VPN remote maintenance functions provide secure remote access to components and systems on a network.

Weidmüller also has a new surge protection device for Ethernet applications. The Varitector Data Cat 6 device protects Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet networks against damage from voltage surges or lightning strikes. It provides protection for four pairs of wires up to 250MHz and, if needed, can also be used for Cat 5 installations (up to 100MHz).

SOFTWARE

ABB’s Automation Builder engineering suite can be used to program, configure and monitor drives, PLCs, HMIs and other devices. The software, aimed at machine-builders and systems integrators, can be used to customise the firmware in ABB’s ACS880 drives. It is based on the Codesys programming environment. All project data and control code can be stored in a single archive.

On its stand, Baumüller was demonstrating a new “co-ordinated motion” component library that allows robot and CNC functions to be used in its Motion Control SPS software. This is said to make it easier for users to achieve co-ordinated movements on several axes. The software supports the IEC 61131-3 languages and path movements are programmed using G code. A CNC program can be loaded into the software as a simple text file and data from CAD/CAM systems can also be used to program machines.

Version 4.0 of Lenze’s Drive Solution Designer software (above) includes functions to simplify the dimensioning of winding drives, as well as an “application tuner” that allows further possible operating states and material recipes to be integrated into the dimensioning process. The downloadable software, which Windows 8 compatible, also promises improvements in usability and the ability to generate CAD data.

A new version (6.1) of Rittal’s Power Engineering planning software provides support for the new IEC 61439-1/2 switchgear standard. The software guides the user through the planning and configuration of the switchgear one step at a time, and offers assembly instructions, parts lists and other documentation. An “assembly planning assistant” helps installers to operate more efficiently, and all drawings can be exported in standard CAD formats.

The latest version of Siemens’ TIA Portal engineering environment allows users to configure and monitor its Sinamics G120 drives using version 12 of the Sinamics Startdrive software. The drives can be configured in a similar way to a controller or HMI. The software can also be used to integrate Simotics motors into the engineering framework, while safety function views allow the efficient commissioning of safe drive systems. The new version of Startdrive also includes a trace function that can monitor up to eight signals simultaneously for diagnostics purposes.

The next Hannover Fair will take place from 7–11 April, 2014.




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