Dynamic parameterization via IO-Link
An IO-Link master was recently integrated into the familiar EX600 communication platform (V1.1). Thanks to the modular design, up to four masters can be quickly and easily blocked into an EX600 platform with a Profinet interface. Connected IO-Link devices can then be parameterized during operation. The dual-port fieldbus systems of type EX600-SEN3/4 from SMC each offer two Ethernet connections. This makes integration into complex networks with line or device level ring (DLR) topologies quick and easy. Ethernet/IP devices are integrated into the network after just 0.5 seconds using Quickconnect. A switch is not required and fewer cables are needed for installation. The manufacturer promises shorter cycle times, greater reliability and lower costs. Access via an integrated web server with any conventional web browser is also convenient.

Anyone who has to change welding guns or grippers frequently or works in kinetically demanding applications can use the EX600-W series to connect up to 127 slaves wirelessly in just 0.25 seconds. And it does so fully automatically over a distance of 10 meters, making the series suitable for large automation systems. In these applications, there is no need to worry about interference frequencies in the 2.4 gigahertz frequency range and the freedom of movement of rotary tables and robot arms is much better without interfering cable harnesses. A total of 1,280 inputs and outputs can be assigned with the wireless fieldbus systems of the EX600-W series.

Cycle counter makes maintenance plannable
With a new variant of the EX260 communication module, up to 16 or 32 coils of a valve terminal can be controlled with one unit via IO-Link. Compared to a single connection, this means a drastic reduction in the number of components required and the amount of wiring involved. SMC relies on the COM3 standard with 230.4 Kbit per second for the transmission speed of all IO-Link models. This allows very short and precise switching times with excellent repeatability.

An integrated cycle counter makes it possible to plan maintenance intervals in advance. Just 28 millimetres wide, the EX260 series takes up very little space. The IO-Link devices are dust-tight and can even withstand temporary immersion in liquids (IP67). As they have a robust design, they can be placed very close to machines. The units are compatible with the SV, VQC, S0700 and New SY valve terminals from SMC. At the same time, the long service life of up to 70 million cycles (soft-seated gate valve) or 200 million cycles (steel gate valve) ensures high machine availability.

SMC offers gateway units from the EX500 GEN2 and EX500 GPN2 series for up to 16 different valves and valve terminal units. They are characterized by a fast connection to Ethernet/IP or Profinet production environments. Both models can be operated via a web browser and have 128 inputs and outputs each. The gateways can be installed up to 20 meters away from valve terminals, allowing for short piping or tubing runs. The gateway units from SMC are dustproof and protected against water jets and are therefore also suitable for outdoor use.

Light instead of power
The EX245 series is aimed at users who operate reliable networks in difficult electromagnetic environments. The network is based on fiber optic cables. The EX245 series has been equipped with AIDA-compliant push-pull connectors for the automotive industry. Profinet functions such as Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP) and Fast Start Up (FSU) are already implemented. A total of 128/64 inputs and outputs are available in addition to 32 valve outputs. Copper instead of fiber optic cable and M12 connectors are available on request. as