Protocol converter
HMS presents 2nd generation
HMS Networks presents the 2nd generation of Anybus Communicator protocol converters. The device connects serial field devices and machines to industrial networks.
The Anybus Communicator product family has been on the market for almost 20 years and is used to connect serial devices and machines to fieldbuses or Industrial Ethernet. The new Communicator is already available for EtherNet/IP. Versions for Modbus-TCP, Profinet and Profibus will follow. The two product generations are offered in parallel due to different product life cycles.
The 2nd generation Communicators are based on the proven Anybus NP40 network processor, which is also used in the embedded solutions from HMS Networks. As a result, the protocol converters meet demanding requirements in terms of performance, reliability and security.
With new hardware and software, cycle times can be realized that are up to 10 times faster than with the first generation device, depending on the application. Up to 1,448 bytes can be sent to the higher-level PLC and up to 1,448 bytes can be received from the PLC.
In order to meet current and future security challenges, the protocol converters are equipped with a security chip. Secure boot ensures that the firmware is not manipulated.
The protocol converters are mounted on a top-hat rail and have a slimline housing. They have industrial certificates such as CE and UL. The operating temperature range extends from -25 to 70 °C, meaning that the protocol converters provide reliable service even under demanding industrial conditions.
Simple configuration and deployment
Before the connection between the Communicator and the higher-level PLC is established, the user configures the protocol converter for communication with their sub-network, which can consist of one or more devices or machines. To do this, the Ethernet configuration port of the protocol converter is connected to a PC. The user can then open the new graphical, web-based Communicator user interface using their preferred browser. The configuration is done by drag & drop. No additional software is required.
The device communicates with the connected devices via Modbus RTU. Up to 150 Modbus commands are supported, which also enables very complex configurations with several nodes. Completed configurations can be securely saved and managed for future use. As soon as the protocol converter is configured, it can be integrated as a node in the higher-level PLC system.
The user can also use the configuration port and the Communicator's web interface to monitor and diagnose network traffic. Both the connection status to the higher-level PLC and the serial sub-network as well as the status of individual serial nodes are displayed. Communication protocols are available for further analysis.
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