A new Control Techniques real time Ethernet module

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Jan 21, 2008

The latest option module on the Control Techniques variable speed drive range, including the Unidrive SP family, is SM-EtherCAT, giving support for real-time, high performance Ethernet communication

"We have been monitoring the market and listening to our customers, this has resulted in us initially choosing EtherCAT over PowerLink.

We also believe that EtherCAT potentially offers customers a greater benefit" says the Control Techniques Product Manager for System Integration Products, Imad Rajraji: "EtherCAT is the first in our planned range of real-time Ethernet solutions, with more protocols to follow".

The module is for use with the full range of Control Techniques AC and servo drives from 0.37kW simple conveyor or pump control, through high precision servo applications to high power 1.9MW multi-mode drives.

This allows customers to standardise their network across the whole machine.

The SM-EtherCAT module is the latest in a wide range of communication options that already include Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP as well as traditional fieldbus.

Increasingly, EtherCAT is being requested by customers because of its excellent performance and bandwidth, allowing users to get good dynamic performance from their drives.

It covers the whole range of communication requirements from high-end motion control through to central factory computer control of conveyors and pumps.

Control Techniques SM-EtherCAT module can operate at cycle times down to 250us, synchronising the drive position or speed loop to the communications network, improving overall system performance.

Control Techniques now has twenty four SM option modules, used to extend its I/O, feedback, communications, automation and motion capability.

All AC and servo drives use the same option module format allowing flexible connectivity and functionality with Digitax ST, Control Techniques new servo drive, Commander SK, as well as Unidrive SP, which has a total of three internal option slots for modules.