Interconnection


Flexible connections for Ethernet-based automation solutions

18 July 2001 Interconnection

Even though the fieldbus continues to dominate industrial networking, Ethernet-based solutions are being used in even more areas of automation technology. Increasingly, production and process sequences are controlled by means of a client/server model, with controllers, PLCs, and ERP systems (enterprise resource planning) having access to each sensor that is connected to the network. The implementation of an effective and safe network also requires the use of appropriate connectors; and these are available in a wide variety thus providing very flexible solutions.

Industrial Ethernet is a standard in development and so is characterised by the respective dynamics. Different bodies such as the Industrial Ethernet Association or IAONA-Europe bring together leading international manufacturers and users in order to establish Ethernet as a standard in the entire industrial environment. The aim is to create global communications on all levels, from factory automation, via process automation, to building automation.

In principle, the following transmission media are available for industrial Ethernet today. As a rule, for 10 Mbps, these will be coax cables, with Thin-Ethernet-BNC cable for 10Base-2, and Thick-Ethernet cable for 10Base-5. For 10 or 100 Mbps, twisted-pair cables (4-wire lines twisted in pairs, either screened or unscreened) will be used.

Portfolio has variety

A comprehensive range of modular Western connectors is a new addition to Erni's product range. Modular Western connectors are designed for applications within the telecoms sector such as hubs, routers, NICs and switches. However, these connectors - which have Modjacks on the device side and Modplugs on the cable side with appropriate accessories - are increasingly used in networked industrial and computer applications. Thus, they are also destined for the Industrial Ethernet market. The product variety here meets the requirements of a developing new standard.

In principle, there are modular jack versions in the Stewart and Tyco style, which are available in single row and double row, as well as in multiport versions (2 to 16 ports). The modular jacks are available in shielded or unshielded versions. For PCB termination; versions complete with SMT termination or conventional dip-solder termination are available. In addition, angled and vertical versions are available. The product range of the Erni Modjacks comprises RJ45 and RJ11 connectors as well as versions 4, 6 and 8, up to 10 contacts max. Filtered versions (special filter technology) are also included in the modular Western program. In addition, ultra-low profile versions with a build height of 11,5 mm complement the standard range.

Modular Western connectors meet FCC requirements and are also certified with UL and CSA. Modular Western jacks for (Cat 5 E) applications are also included in the range. The customer can select between screened or unscreened Modjacks. In addition, various different boots are available for the ModPlugs. Special types offer protection against accidental release. A new version has been designed for connection of stranded or solid wires. Customisation can be effected simply and quickly. Special application tools are available for this purpose. The very wide product range of Modjacks and ModPlugs allows users to identify an optimised solution for their specific applications.



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