The Anybus X-gateway family of gateways from HMS Industrial Networks is based on the well-known Anybus communication modules. Integrated into a practical metal housing, these modules form an intelligent link between two industrial networks. The X-gateway family comprises 180 different versions and can therefore interconnect all the most common fieldbuses, such as Profibus, DeviceNet, and CANopen, or connect these fieldbuses to the newer standards of Industrial Ethernet, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus-TCP, and EtherCAT. The gateways are standalone devices designed for DIN rail mounting. After connecting to a power supply, the gateways are immediately ready for data exchange between the two selected networks. Configuration takes only a few minutes and requires no programming or special hardware or software. The gateways transmit I/O data and parameters completely transparently between the two networks. The data volume is configured via a simple configuration dialog during gateway installation. The gateways can be easily integrated into industrial automation systems and ensure seamless information flow between different networks. The Anybus X-gateway gateways combine high reliability and flexibility, making them an indispensable connectivity tool for system integrators and factory operators.
To
further expand the functionality of the Anybus X-gateway family, HMS has developed an OPC Server. This new feature connects PC-based OPC Client applications via standard Ethernet networks and the X-gateway to all major fieldbus networks. The OPC Server is supplied with the X-gateway at no extra cost. The Anybus OPC Server allows any PC-based OPC DA Client application to access data from distributed field devices on a fieldbus network without requiring a PCI fieldbus interface card. The Anybus OPC Server supports OPC Data Access (DA) versions 1.0, 2.05, and 3.0. Key features include access to process data, an OPC tag editor, and an online viewer/editor with read/write access to tag process data. The connection between the PC in the control room and the field devices on the factory floor is established via existing Ethernet networks and the Anybus X-gateway. While the PCI card is integrated into the PC in the control room, the X-gateway can be installed directly on-site, eliminating the need for costly fieldbus cabling between the production line and the control room. This reduces installation costs and improves flexibility.
The one millionth Anybus module rolled off the production line in April 2009, marking a historic milestone.
While it took HMS ten years to reach this significant mark, current deliveries exceed 200,000 modules, and HMS expects to reach two million in significantly less time.
HMS Industrial Networks, a leading independent provider of embedded networking technology for automation devices, is headquartered in Halmstad, Sweden, where it conducts development and production. In 2008, it achieved sales of €33 million.
