Control panel connectivity system add Ethernet

Product Exclusive: Eaton SmartWire-DT system adds EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP connectivity options to reach more customers with its lean automation solution, to reduce panel wiring costs, improve reliability.

April 9, 2012

Connectivity options have expanded for the SmartWire-DT panel wiring system from Eaton Corporation, a diversified industrial manufacturer. The Eaton SmartWire-DT adds EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP to the control panel wiring system, expanding on original Profibus-DP and CANopen offerings. Eaton SmartWire-DT simplifies how control panels are designed and built by replacing numerous wires used to connect motor control components with one cable.

The added network flexibility allows the SmartWire-DT system to easily integrate with an original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM’s) preferred industrial network. 

“Eaton is helping customers make their processes more competitive with lean solutions that dramatically reduce the assembly and commissioning time, while maintaining or improving the quality of the control system,” said Richard Chung, Eaton product manager. “By replacing complex wiring inside control cabinets, the SmartWire-DT system automates, simplifies, and expedites connecting control panel components—establishing a new level of efficiency, accuracy, and reliability. Further, with the addition of Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP connectivity, the SmartWire-DT system provides versatile connectivity options, integrating with a broad range of customers’ choice protocols. ”

The SmartWire-DT panel wiring solution uses an eight-conductor, flat cable located in the control cabinet to connect motor starters, pushbutton actuators, and indicator lights. The start of the system is a SmartWire-DT gateway, which establishes the connection to standard programmable logic controller (PLC) fieldbuses.

www.eaton.com/SmartWire-DT

Eaton Corp.

Eaton’s electrical business offers power distribution, power quality, control and automation, power monitoring, and energy management products and services. Eaton responds to electrical power management challenges through its Cutler-Hammer, Moeller, Powerware, Holec, MEM, and Santakl electrical products. Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with more than 100 years of experience in providing energy-efficient solutions that help customers effectively manage electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical power. With 2011 sales of $16.0 billion, Eaton provides electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution, and control; hydraulics components, systems, and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics, and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy, and safety. Eaton has approximately 73,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries.