Pepperl+fuchs Podcasts

AS-Interface Safety Code Substitution -- In this episode Tim mentions that AS-Interface Safety at Work is based on the transmission of dynamic data called the "safety code". While the dynamics of the data is required so that the Safety Monitor can determine what is going on at the safe inputs. To simplify diagnostics logic on the PLC, a simple code substitution procedure was introduced several years ago.  The latest generation of AS-Interface gateways with integrated safety controller took this a step further. With this diagnostic code substitution it is possible to: --Know which safety contact is open and which contact is closed (red/green/grey) --Identify if a safety device requires testing (yellow flashing) --Detect if a safety device caused a critical error (red flashing) --See if a device is 'ready", awaiting for instance a RESET (yellow)

AS-Interface parameter bits -- This week Tim explains what AS-Interface parameter bits are. Using AS-Interface parameter bits users can configure AS-Interface modules to perform certain operations.  Users should know that the default operation of the modules have been selected to cover nearly all cases and modifying the parameter bits is only needed in rare cases.  By default the parameter bits are "1" or "ON".  Tim also explains the difference between 'parameters' and 'power-up parameters'.  Users should know that: --Parameter bits are not stored on the module --While the hand-held can change a parameter bit, disconnecting the module will always reset them to "1" --The PLC can be instructed to send parameter bits during startup or even during normal operation --Parameter bits can be set through the display on the gateway --ControlTools software is another way of setting parameter bits

Analog data for AS-Interface -- This week Tim talks about the universal AS-Interface analog input module in the G11 housing.  This analog input module offers exceptional application flexibility and: --Powers the transducers from either AS-Interface or AUX power --Allows any combination of current, voltage or PT100 inputs --Auto detects what kind of transducer has been connected --Its operation can also be modified using its parameter bits --Allows single-channel operation by jumper-deactivation of channel 2

Usage example -- This week, Robert talks about a specific AS-Interface application involving the safety encoder.  The video "Using a Safety Encoder on AS-Interface" goes through the configuration and setup of the system. The AS-Interface system covers the following operational situations: --When all gates are closed the process will run, up to the over-speed limit --If the press needs to be cleaned it is now possible to clean it under power. Here direction of rotation and creep speed is validated. --By eliminating the need to stop, clean, restart, and jog repeatedly, the process is now considerably faster

Hardware -- The safety speed monitor evaluates data from the safe-rated encoder. In a nutshell, the safety speed monitor evaluates the sine/cosine signals from the encoder, and determines if the speed is within limits and if the direction of rotation is what it should be. --The safe-rated encoder is built up redundantly with self-monitoring electronics and is third-party approved (TUV) --The safety speed monitor determines if the motion is outside the limits set by the user.  A safe-rated signal is then sent to an AS-Interface safety controller --The speed monitor can be used as part of an AS-Interface setup or as a stand-alone device

AS-Interface application -- Many types of automation systems can benefit from safe-rated encoders. These rotary encoders may be used within an AS-Interface safety system. In a typical application, the safety encoder is used to safely determine the velocity of a rotation.  Being able to safely know when a machine has stopped, is moving clockwise or counterclockwise, or rotates at an overspeed limit allows better process design. --Overspeed allows you to safely determine if a motor is operating at speed above a safe limit --The safe determination of CW/CCW rotation is useful in applications where the direction of motion needs to be known to ensure safety; doors and lifts come to mind --Safe stop assures that a machine has truly stopped before accessing the system for maintenance

AS-Interface Safety Monitor -- The Safety Monitor is the safety controller of an AS-Interface Safety at Work system. As a PL e rated device it is able to be used in the most demanding safety applications. The VAS-2A8L-KE4-8SE Safety Monitor introduced here can process safety date data from up to 31 safe rated devices (e-stops, door switches, modules ...) connected to the network and 4 safe rated inputs connected locally to the Safety Monitor directly --Rated to PL e for highest safety requirements --Integrated memory card --On-board safe and non-safe inputs / outputs --Two safe rated electronic safe outputs --USB configuration and diagnostics interface --Full standalone operation

AS-Interface Power Supplies (VAN-115/230AC-K27) and repeaters for AS-Interface -- Power supplies are important.  Fortunately, selecting them is fairly straightforward when considering a couple of specification parameters.  AS-Interface Repeaters are typically used to extend the total length of a network. --Select the AS-Interface power supply to match your available input voltage.  When fusing the input side, take a look at the total current consumption of the supply --Output current specifies how much current can be provided to power modules, the gateway, and possibly, a repeater --AS-Interface power supplies are primarily designed for AS-Interface.  Thus their secondary voltage is fixed at 30.5 V --Just as with the gateways, make sure they are mounted such that they are properly vented to keep the operating temperature within the specified range --Repeaters are easy to use. They are bi-directional ... but watch out when using a repeater with a terminator

AS-Interface Gateways part II -- Continuing talking about the AS-Interface gateway (VBG-ENX-K20-DMD) Tim explains: --The interface section describes, among other things, what kind of upper-level network the gateway supports --The data sheet also specifies that modern Ethernet redundancy via Device Level Ring (DLR) topology is supported --The interface section also identifies diagnostics interface options and the availability of a chip card --It is a good idea to watch the ambient temperature rating; just don't install the gateway in a closed-off box

AS-Interface Gateways -- For this episode, Tim selected an AS-Interface EtherNet/IP gateway (VBG-ENX-K20-DMD) supporting two AS-Interface networks. --The master specification (M1-M4) identifies the capabilities of the gateway.  Today it is best to accept only gateways that are built to the M4 specification --Some gateways have integrated higher level programming ability using, for instance, C --Duplicate address detection, earth fault detection, and EMC monitoring are valuable diagnostic features --LEDs are still used to provide direct user feedback.  As is true in nearly all cases. "all LEDs green" is a good thing

AS-Interface Safety modules -- In this episode, Tim explains how to read a data sheet for an AS-Interface safety input module.  Specifically, he is talking about a VAA-2E1A-G10 style device with two safe inputs and one non-safe conventional electronic output. --The operating voltage and why it is important --The rated operating current includes the current needed to run the module plus the maximum current for the non-safe output --This particular module is designed for mechanically safe contacts.  This is related to the contact testing --'Dynamic data bits' indicate that the input data is used to send the dynamic safety data --Functional safety specifications are important parameters needed when evaluating the performance of the entire system where the module is used

Analog output modules -- Tim and Helge again talk about AS-Interface data sheets. More specifically, they are focusing on the data that is specific to analog output modules, such as the G11 AS-Interface module VBA-4A-G11-I/U-F. --The voltage and current range specifies what kind of output signals the modules can generate.  While 0 V -10 V and 4 mA to 20 mA is normal, it is also possible to output current signals down to 0 mA. --The supply section specifies whether the outputs are powered from the AS-Interface yellow cable or the back AUX cable.  The second option is, of course, able to provide a lot more current. --Parameter bits are again used to modify the operation.  Frequently, the parameter bits are used to configure the module watchdog. --On some modules, a DIP switch is used to lock in the type of output; either current or voltage.

AS-Interface analog input module -- Tim and Helge are discussing a 2-input AS-Interface analog module VBA-2E-G11-I/U/PT100/F capable of servicing current, voltage, and temperature probes. --The input section specifies what kind of analog transducer can be connected. --The data sheet specifies if the inputs are powered from AS-Interface or AUX. Tim also explains why this is needed. --Accuracy is one of the most important parameter user look at. --Scaling has to do with the numbers as they show up in the PLC. Our modules scale such that 20 mA corresponds to 20,000 and 10 V is presented as 10,000. --Scaling has to do with the numbers as they show up in the PLC. Our modules scale such that 20 mA corresponds to 20,000 and 10 V is presented as 10,000.

AS-Interface Digital I/O module -- Today Tim and Helge finish discussing the data sheet of the VBA-4E4A-G11-ZAJ/EA2L-F AS-Interface module.  Temperature and environmental data should not be overlooked. --Make sure a module does not overheat.  This is particularly important for modules that are mounted in junction boxes.  Does the box offer sufficient air circulation? --Shock and vibration data specifies the severity, frequency, and amplitude of shock and vibration. --IP rating is an important parameter describing the environment (dust and water) a module can be subjected to. --Look at the electrical diagram for a quick overview of how to wire the module and which pins provide what kind of operation.

AS-Interface Digital I/O module -- In this week's episode, Tim explains the data concerning the outputs, profiles, data bit layout, and parameter bits for AS-Interface module VBA-4E4A-G11-ZAJ/EA2L-F. --Typical AS-Interface modules with electronic outputs are sourcing 24 VDC plus. --Depending on the "power source," digital outputs are powered from AUX or from AS-Interface. --It is important to look at the total output current and watch for any restrictions. --Profiles specify the "function" of a module; they are important in case a failed module must be replaced. --Data bit layout is important since a PLC programmer needs to know where in the PLC map an input shows up and which PLC bits control an output. --Parameter bits give the programmer the ability to modify the behavior of a module.

Digital I/O module -- One of the most important sections on an AS-Interface module data sheet covers electrical specifications of inputs and outputs. In this episode, Tim and Helge discuss the VBA-4E4A-G11-ZAJ/EA2L-F AS-Interface module, as an example. --AUX -- Auxiliary power is typically used to power outputs. --Rates operating voltage -- This is the voltage requirement available to the module at the location where it is connected to the cable. --Operating current -- This is the current needed to run the module.  Sensors and load current are extra. --Max. current -- This is the total current consumed by the module.  This includes the operating current, the current it can supply to the sensors, and the load current. --Current loading capacity -- This the current the module can provide to run the sensors and the resulting load current. --Input current – This is the internally limited load current.

Digital I/O module -- There is a lot of information about an AS-Interface module that users can get from the data sheet. Tim and Helge go through the details on a technical data sheet for AS-Interface module VBA-4E4A-G11-ZAJ/EA2L-F, as an example. --AS-Interface specification and Master spec -- This identifies to which specification the module was designed and what kind of master is required for the module. --Safety-relevant data -- Even for nonsafety-rated modules, it is useful to have this data.  Most typically, it is used in SISTEMA when evaluating safety configurations. --Indicators -- This includes LEDs for inputs, outputs, and all supply voltages.  Modules also indicate internal errors and peripheral errors using LEDs.

The AS-Interface G12 module family has many unique features, making it the preferred solution in many instances. In this episode, Tim and Helge discuss  favorite advantages to remember: --Completely tool-less installation – Installing the module on the flat cable does not require a screwdriver. This even includes the addressing jack. --Metal M12 – This is a preference for many customers. All M12 connections on the module are metal. By the way, the base and the mounting bar are metal as well. --DIN mount – Many customers ask for it and the metal mounting base on the G12 AS-Interface modules has it. --Great fault indication – Just like the G11 modules, overland indication is per each output. It is important to know that overloading an output does not negatively impact inputs or control over the remaining outputs. --Exceptional I/O selection – I/O mixes include all the common combinations like 4 input and 4 input/4 output. The G12 also comes in a less common 2 input/2 output a

In this episode, Helge and Tim cover the unusual and exceptional AS-Interface G11 module family. Immediately obvious is the unique round housing, which offers many important advantages for an AS-Interface system. --Sturdy mounting base – You need to see this. The base is exceptionally sturdy, easy to work with, and comes with the module. --Ingenious O-ring design – This design results in IP68/69K protection without the need to encapsulate the electronics. --Great fault indication – Overland indication per each output. It is important to know that overloading an output does not negatively impact inputs or control over the remaining outputs. --Flat cable or M12 connection – There are many cases where flat cable connections are exactly what is needed. But in a trunk/drop type installation, the M12 connection option is cleaner and simpler. --Access to M12 ports – Better access to the M12 connections is a direct consequence of the round housing. Round also adds attractive symmetry to

This week Helge and Tim take a close look at the G10 modules, the smallest full featured AS-Interface module line on the market: --Size – The G10 housing is by far the smallest AS-Interface module on the market. It is so small that you may not even have to mount it at all—just drop it in the cable tray. --High IP rating – With IP68/69K, these modules are simply the ideal solution for just about any automation environment. --Many I/O options – I/O options matter. And the G10 is available for input, output, and even safety devices. With many passive "adapters" available in the G10 housing, this is the most complete family of AS-Interface devices. --Make any sensor intelligent – An integrated pigtail reduces labeling, removes failures, and reduces costs even more. Read the Blog Post: Protect your Industrial Cables and Cable Connectors! Read the Blog Post: Why the Incredible G10 Housing is an AS-Interface Game Changer