New processor simplifies machine automation systems
21 January 2011
Designed for centralised control systems, the new Lenze 3200C controller combines PLC logic, motion control and visualisation in a single device. By bringing together the latest fast microprocessors with updated operating software, the 3200C delivers a tailored hardware-software combination that can implement automation systems in a cost-effective way.
This new controller suits machines with single-and multi-axis drives giving powerful centralised control over a matching range of external drives and actuators. Dimensions are compact with DIN rail mounting and a width of only 136mm, and reliability is assured as there is no fan or battery.
The 3200C controller is designed to integrate with the Lenze I/O system 1000 creating a single station with a fast 48MHz backplane bus and a 1µs time stamp. Up to 64 I/O modules can be combined with digital and analog I/O, temperature measurement, counters and encoder evaluation. Communication ports are provided for Ethernet and the fast bus EtherCAT which can connect to servo and inverter drives, also external I/O stations. Two USB connections are available and there is an optional third USB for DVI connections to a monitor panel such as the Lenze MP range. Two further ports are provided for CANopen and optional PROFIBUS.
Project planning is simplified by the latest software. The 3200C operates with Windows CE 6.0 and is provided with Lenze PLC Designer software which enables programming to the languages of IEC61131-3. This latest version of PLC Designer is based on the CoDeSys3 programming system which has been tailored and optimised for the controller. Programming of motion functions is to PLCopen standards. Designers can use the new controller as a gateway, for example evaluating PROFIBUS signals and transmitting them in Ethernet.
The 3200C uses a flash memory for storage instead of the significantly more error-prone hard discs used in the past. Intel Atom™ processors operate without requiring a fan so there are no moving parts making the controllers particularly robust. In the event of a power supply failure, an integrated UPS ensures that the retain variables of the controller are saved. For use as removable storage, the 3200C is fitted with one SD memory card slot and two USB interfaces. Four LEDs display operating status and allow fast analysis.
For the machine designers wanting to reduce project planning time, the Lenze 3200C scores by bringing together PLC logic, motion control of drives, and visualisation. Further savings come from the integration of I/O into a single DIN rail mounted station and the Lenze portfolio of matching inverter drives, servo drives and monitor panels. PLC programming with the latest CoDeSys3 is faster and reduces cost. Complete automation systems can be implemented efficiently through the controller.
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