Remote displays: Use of ‘visualization over Ethernet’ technology for hazardous locations

Pepprl+Fuchs has introduced what it is calling “the process industry’s first visualization solution to communicate exclusively via Ethernet.”

By Control Engineering Staff December 13, 2007

Dispensing with proprietary connection techniques, Pepprl+Fuchs has introduced what it is calling “the process industry’s first visualization solution to communicate exclusively via Ethernet.” VisuNet RM—a new family of remote monitors for use in hazardous locations—eliminates copper and fiber optic keyboard, video and mouse interface technology in favor of open network-based visualization over Ethernet (VOE) technology founded on Microsoft standards.VOE technology facilitates operation of up to 32are up to 2 km away from the PC in the safe area, or as a full-scale panel PC installed in the hazardous location. VisuNet RM is available with optional wireless Ethernet as part of Pepperl+Fuchs Systems and Solutions offering.“VisuNet is the process industry’s first generation of visualization solutions to communicate exclusively via existing Ethernet TCP/IP network infrastructure, dispensing completely with proprietary connection techniques. VisuNet facilitates flexible connection topologies that are independent of the physical connection because it shares the same connection medium—the Ethernet network,” said Brian Alvarado, product manager.in Ex-areas, categories II 2G, II 2D, Class 1 Zone 1, Ghost and NEPSI. The VisuNet product family is designed as a component system: In addition to different display sizes, international keyboard layouts, pointing devices, and mounting options, a series of optional functions are available, and systems can be custom configured to suit specific application needs. The VisuNet locking housing facilitates rapid repair/exchange in the event the display should fail. The units have a mean time between failure (MTBF) rating of 50,000 hours.VisuNet’s stainless steel cases are modular and can be enhanced with an ergonomic keyboard. The product line includes a choice of stainless steels and degree of surface roughness. Accessories include combinable boxes for switches and buttons, an adjusting mechanism for swinging out the keyboard, stainless steel pedestals, and brackets for mounting VisuNet devices on the floor, wall or ceiling. www.am.pepperl-fuchs.com

–Renee Robbins, Control Engineering News Desk, renee.robbins@reedbusiness.com


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