Filling the gap in the Automation market

Edited by the Processingtalk editorial team Jun 4, 2007

Combining the ease of use and attractive pricing of intelligent relays with functionality and connectivity of a programmable controller, the new easy Control EC4P fills a significant gap in the market

The Control EC4P offers a versatile and inexpensive solution for projects where the requirements go beyond simple interlocking and sequencing, but where the cost and complexity of a full-blown PLC is not warranted.

Featuring the same compact construction as the popular Moeller Electric easy intelligent relays, easy Control EC4P units offer 12 digital inputs, four of which can optionally be configured as analogue or high-speed inputs, and either six relay or eight transistor outputs.

Models are also available that, in addition to the digital outputs, have one analogue output.

The units have built-in support for EasyNet and CANopen networking, and are optionally available with an integral Ethernet interface for connection to supervisory systems.

The range includes models with an integral display that can be used to provide basic HMI functions, as well as models without displays that save money in applications where this functionality is not required.

All versions have a fast, powerful processor complemented by 256K of program memory, and all use an IEC61131-3 based CoDeSys-compliant programming system.

This provides users with a wide choice of graphical programming options, including function block, ladder diagram and sequential function chart, as well as text-based programming languages such as instruction list or structured text.

While programmes are stored internally in non-volatile memory, a slot is also provided to allow them to be copied to and from standard memory cards.

This is an ideal option for archiving, and also provides a convenient method for loading new programmes and firmware into the units.

The versatility of products in the Moeller Electric easy Control EC4P range can be further extended by the use of expansion modules of the same types as those used with easy intelligent relays.

These allow, for example, addition of more I/O capacity, or the provision of extra networking options such as AS-interface, Profibus DP and DeviceNet.