“With the miniaturization of components, lines, and related automation equipment, production lines have become smaller. At the same time, the need for higher power and data transmission speeds to support smart devices is rapidly increasing,” said Paul Just, product manager at Belden. “The new additions we’ve made to the LioN-Power system provide teams with field-level solutions that improve performance while saving space, allowing them to take advantage of new IIoT technologies without a complete redesign.”
Combined with the existing LioN-Power system, these new solutions provide customers with maximum flexibility and performance in space-constrained industrial environments. The following are the six additions to the LioN-Power family:
The LioN-Power Distributed Control Microunit (μDCU) is the first solution to enable automation with a single device, combining the capabilities of a field I/O module with those of a programmable logic controller (PLC). Within organizations, the μDCUs can be easily programmed using the free LDmicro programming tool in Ladder Logic (LAD). This provides a cost-effective and accelerated solution for field-level automation and IIoT capabilities. The μDCUs are also ready for global deployment, with UL 61010-1 approval expected by the end of November 2016 and multi-protocol compatibility with PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and EtherCAT.
• LioN-Power's multiprotocol I/O modules are the most versatile multiprotocol I/O modules on the market, with the addition of EtherCAT support to the existing line's PROFINET and EtherNet/IP compatibility. This line also includes new module options with 16 universal digital input/output (DIO) pins, giving users the freedom to configure the modules to any I/O setup to meet the diverse needs of their systems.
• LioN-Power's IO-Link Master Ports are fieldbus-independent, multi-protocol modules that ensure the intelligent and consistent communication between programmable logic controllers and smart devices required for the IIoT. These modules provide enhanced flexibility with PROFINET and EtherNet/IP compatibility and customizable port configurations that allow for the management of digital inputs, digital outputs, analog inputs via IO-Link, and smart devices—all within a single device. This enables users worldwide to easily connect devices to various systems and controllers.
• LioN-Power's hybrid I/O modules combine power and data transfer in the world's first I/O module to provide multi-protocol compatibility in conjunction with M12 hybrid technology. Their space-saving interface reduces the number of cables required, simplifying installation and facilitating module replacement. The modules' ability to reduce wiring also minimizes space requirements on the machine itself, giving machine builders more flexible design options.
• LioN-Power's hybrid M12 connectors are revolutionizing industrial connectivity by providing an interface that simultaneously transfers power and data over Fast Ethernet. This saves space and allows teams to install devices on the network in half the time. This hybrid M12 connector has been rigorously tested, making it the first hybrid M12 connector to achieve UL 2238 certification.
Lumberg Automation has added a screw-type design option to its LioN-Power line of 5-pole, B-coded M8 cable assemblies. This option combines the industry's smallest and lightest cable assembly with increased mechanical strength and high-pressure water protection up to IP69K. The 5-pole, B-coded M8 cable assemblies also feature easy-to-use, mountable B-coded connectors, making incorrect connections impossible. This is the only B-coded connector that meets IEC 61076-2-104 standards.
LioN-Power system solutions are specifically designed for industrial applications that require higher data and power transmission speeds in confined spaces, such as robotics, machine making, manufacturing, power transmission and distribution, food and beverage, packaging, and automotive industries.
In a world moving toward new levels of interoperability enabled by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), visibility is essential for operators facing increasing demands when receiving, analyzing, and sharing data. Belden's industrial connectivity solutions anticipate these needs. With more connected machines, growing data volumes, and increased productivity demands, customers can rely on Belden cables and industrial connectors from Hirschmann and Lumberg Automation for a comprehensive communications infrastructure designed for long-lasting performance. Belden's customized systems deliver high levels of performance and reliability to help a wide range of industrial automation applications support the growth of networked smart devices and robust analytics.
