ProSoft Technology’s FA Control Network Communication Interface to Allen-Bradley’s ControlLogix Chassis
ProSoft Technology’s new FA Control Network Communication Module (MVI56-FLN) is a user-friendly tool which enables ControlLogix architectures to access field data from FL-net Ethernet protocol compatible devices directly over the backplane. The MVI56-FLN module implements FL-net version 2.00 (OPCN-2) for standard FA control networks, as defined by JEMA (The Japan Electrical Manufacturers Association). FL-net Features: FL-net (OPCN-2) is a controller-level network that conforms to JEMA specification JEM1479, and was developed for multi-vendor communications of programmable controllers, NC controllers, Robotic and other Motion Control systems. The FL-net protocol is by nature a master-less system specified for a 50 ms cycle time for 32 nodes and up to 254 nodes can be addressed. FL-net in the Automotive Industry: The FL-net Ethernet protocol was designed for real-time data transfer and high configurability, making it ideal for machining lines in automobile manufacturing applications which require fast, complex, custom processes. The automotive industry has been moving toward Ethernet for years but the preferred protocols appear to differ among regions. For this reason, interoperability is very important in Factory Automation (FA) Control, and is a benefit of the MVI56-FLN module by ProSoft Technology. The module allows FL-net devices (commonly used in Asian automotive plants) to interface directly with ControlLogix platforms (commonly found in US applications), vastly expanding the pool of products from which to bid and choose in future projects and retrofits. With the MVI56-FLN module, users can incorporate the functionality of the FL-net protocol into existing ControlLogix networks, thus maintaining the versatility and power of the Allen-Bradley brand. MVI56-FLN Module Features:
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