EC: C441 Series of Ethernet Communication Modules

Network Integration - Ethernet hardware: The C441 series of Ethernet communication modules allow customers to select from Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and Modbus RTU communication protocols with built-in HTTP web services in one card. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.

By Control Engineering November 12, 2012

The C441 series of Ethernet communication modules provides electrical original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and industrial customers, as well as machinery OEMs and panel builders, with flexible communication options to configure, control and monitor their systems. The new connectivity options help electrical and machinery OEMs and industrial users address problems before they cause downtime or excessive energy waste.

Integral HTTP web services allow for configuration, control, monitoring, and diagnostics without needing dedicated software tools. Also, the flexibility in communications allows OEM customers to add value to their equipment with simple and desirable features, like supervision and control. It is compatible with Eaton C440, XTOE, and C441 electronic motor protection relays, S611 and S811+ soft starters, and can be used as stand-alone input/output (IO). Now, the suite of protocols available for Eaton motor protection and soft starter solutions includes Profibus, Modbus TCP and RTU, DeviceNet, and EtherNet/IP. Integral web services provide an easy-to-use Web-based graphical user interface (GUI) to make it easier to recognize potential problems. Using a laptop or smart device, customers can drill down to a given load by simply entering an IP address into a web browser. With five levels of access, the cards ensure only those with credentials have access to critical or sensitive functions.

Problems can be addressed in real time with intelligent monitoring readouts from starters and onboard available four digital inputs (120 V alternating current or 24 V direct current) and two discrete relay outputs. With a dual port switch, the Ethernet card allows for easy daisy chaining and reliable ring configurations. Additionally, customers can use one network for control and another for monitoring through the Modbus serial protocol used in parallel with the Ethernet network allowing redundant communications and greater reliability with one card.

www.eaton.com  

www.eaton.com/C441  

Eaton Corp.