Advantech launches new generation PACs
May 2010
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Advantech’s new PAC product line, the APAX-5000 series, integrates control, information processing, and networking in a single control system with unique dual controller architecture. The APAX-5000 series is versatile, flexible and scalable to meet the demands of industrial automation applications. The series consist of controllers, I/O modules, backplanes, and power modules, all with excellent functionality and user-friendly I/O design.
To reduce operational risks, the new Advantech range features a unique architecture, two standalone CPU modules working together, each responsible for different tasks. One provides high computing power for HMI/SCADA, recipe, database and communication tasks, while the other is dedicated for SoftLogic I/O. This means if the HMI controller crashes, the I/O processing will not be affected and will work as normal. Engineers can simply check the HMI controller and maintain it without having to worry about the I/O processing tasks. Separating I/O processing tasks can prevent unexpected stoppage, decrease operational risks, and ensure higher reliability for critical control requirements.
Aside from the dual controller architecture, the APAX-5000 also supports backup functions. The same I/O processing program can be stored on two controllers, one will execute the I/O processing and if that controller fails, the second controller will automatically take responsibility for I/O processing within 2 seconds.
The modules are well equipped to be either local or remote I/O through their Ethernet backplane. One and two slot backplanes are available, each backplane offering one expansion port. Using a standard Ethernet cable to connect the expansion port on the two backplanes, a remote expansion with local-bus speed is built for distances up to 100 m. In addition, any standard Ethernet switch can be used between the two backplanes enhancing I/O expansion and increasing expansion distance.
The APAX series can easily be upgraded by exchanging the controller for a higher performance processor. This means that there is no need to re-write any program to upgrade the system. Changing CPU modules with different processors with the same I/O modules can meet the requirements of different control tasks.
The I/O modules are designed to be hot swapped when the system is powered and running. All the modules adopt clamp type terminal blocks, which have higher resistance to shock and vibration. The APAX-5000 series is a good choice for batch process production environments and critical environment management systems.
For more information contact Elton Prytz, ProMicro, +27 (0)11 706 7913, [email protected], www.promicro.co.za
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