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Save time with connectivity solutions

Aug. 4, 2008
Each month, our Time Saving Technology department introduces new products and ideas to help you work more efficiently and become a more effective problem solver. This month, we take a look at some of the latest I/O options.

Ethernet switches hit their stride with easy operation

Stride industrial-grade unmanaged Ethernet switches and media converters are built specifically for industrial environments. The new switches are designed for PLC, HMI, and drive networks. Available are 5-port and 8-port switches, 4-port and 8-port switches with one 100BaseF fiber port, and an Ethernet- to-fiber media converter.

Plug-and-play switches automatically determine and remember devices connected to each port and only route messages through appropriate ports, increasing speed and bandwidth. Switches support 10BaseT (10 Mbps) and 100BaseT (100 Mbps) on RJ45 ports. The two-port media converter changes 10/100BaseTX Ethernet to 100BaseFX Ethernet using an RJ45 connection over an ST multimode fiber connection for links up to 4 km. Fiber optic cabling increases network distance and reliability, saving time spent tracking communications problems caused by electrical interference. For more information, visit automationdirect.com/ethernet or call (770) 889-2858.

Waterproof connector cables offer onetouch locking

A new series of IP67-rated circular industrial connectors features a onetouch bayonet locking system, enabling connection in just 1/8th of a turn and with an audible click to indicate complete insertion. Connectors come in plug or socket versions. Assembly advantages include reduced connection time (90% faster compared to screw styles), less fatigue by the assembler, and easier blind mating.

XS5 series plastic shell connectors have four circuits with a contact rating of 4 A at 250 Vac or 250 Vdc and will mate with existing screw type M12 styles. Cable assembly versions include the XS5F single-ended socket, XS5H single-ended plug, and XF5W double-ended socket/ plug in lengths from 1 to 10 m. For more information, visit http://components.omron.com or call (847) 882-2288.

Connectivity line welcomes family of four I/O modules

A family of four machine-mount DeviceNet I/O modules has joined a new line of ODVA-approved connectivity products that allow users to design and build virtually any DeviceNet network. The machine-mount blocks come in 16 input-only, 16 point configurable, 8 input/8 output, and 8 output-only models. Features include low profile metal housings that can survive rough treatment and still protect cables, high density inputs enabling the use of splitters to double the input count, and large, highly visible status LEDs. Easily accessible setup switches make addressing and setting the baud rate fast and simple.

The full line of DeviceNet connectivity products includes numerous cables, splitters, and tees that can be used in any DeviceNet network, making it quick and easy to construct trunk and drop, daisy chain, star, and mixed topology networks. For more information, call visit balluff.com or call (800) 543-8390.

Ethernet connectivity gets tough

A new line of DataTuff industrial Ethernet connectivity components includes cord sets, jacks, plug kits, tools, and accessories, to complement an existing line of industrial Ethernet unshielded and shielded twisted pair cables for end-to-end connectivity. Modular jacks, plug kits, and cord sets (all RJ45) are available in Cat 5e UTP or FTP, and are suitable for use in IP67 installations. Cord sets come with solid or stranded 24 AWG conductors, sunlight and oil-resistant jackets, and are also available in a non-sealed IP20 version for use in more protected enclosures. DataTuff accessories include stainless steel faceplates, surface mount boxes, hand tools to crimp either UTP or FTP RF45 plugs, cable strippers, a punch-down connecting tool, and a tool pouch. For more information, visit belden.com or call (800) BELDEN-1.

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