Modular control system with multi-function platform

By Control Engineering Staff April 4, 2006

The sigmaPAC distributed control system with fieldbus modularity from Ascon Corp. is said to provide machine control that replaces PLCs.

Batavia, IL —Modularity and flexibility are the top-billed features of the new control system from Ascon Corp . For use in diverse and demanding applications, sigmaPAC (programmable automation controller) includes a multi-function platform equipped with control functions for many types of variables (temperature, pressure, flow, level, and position), logic and sequence functions, and process calculations. The system is targeted for applications with multiple parallel tasks managed by the same control unit. Available interface ports, including RS-232/485, Ethernet, and major fieldbuses, ensure maximum connectivity.

Compact unit measures 110 x 152 mm, mounts on standard DIN rail, and connects to remote modules using standard Ethernet cables with RJ-45 connectors. Processor features 32-bit ARM architecture, 4-MB flash memory, 16-MB DRAM, and 128-kB SRAM with battery back-up. A configurable alarm relay digital output, watchdog and Wake-Up digital output, and one digital input are part of the onboard I/O package. A variety of analog, digital, and mixed I/O modules enables creation of a complete control system for most applications, the company says.

—Control Engineering Daily News DeskJeanine Katzel, senior editor, jkatzel@reedbusiness.com