Pepperl+fuchs Podcasts

Duplicate addresses for AS-Interface happen; no big deal.  Just readdress the incorrectly addressed AS-Interface module and things are fine again.  But what if EVERY module on a network appears to be a duplicate address?  Listen to what really happened.  The second issue we were confronted with was a, AS-Interface network that just did not communicate reliably. Network too long?  Close, but not exactly. - When two gateways share a network, the master on one gateway must be disabled.  But, don't forget that mapping the gateway in the PLC can reactivate the previously disabled master!  Flip a bit in the output image and the issue goes away. - Besides observing the 100 m segment rule, it is really important to use cable that satisfies the AS-Interface specification.  Wiring a network using 22-gauge cable is just not going to work.

Remote support technologies for AS-Interface enable live support in ways that were not possible in the not-too-distant past. While many of the tools existed for years, it is the tight integration into other office tools like e-mail and phone systems that make remote support so much better.  Pepperl+Fuchs uses WEBEX, which is an incredibly powerful communication tool. For AS-Interface this means: -Customer and technical support can work jointly on configuration and safety logic. -Pepperl+Fuchs can assist with troubleshooting during the startup phase. -Occasionally, the AS-Interface Analyzer is the best tool to determine the root cause of an issue. Remote support helps customers who are less familiar with this powerful tool. -More and more, smart phones offer Internet hot spot functionality.  In the near future, every Pepperl+Fuchs sales engineer will have the ability to assist customers by facilitating remote support. -Recording a meeting allows customers to go back and see what was done and hear

AS-Interface is a strong networking solution because the technology is supported worldwide by over 350 companies offering certified products.  Being an open technology is advantageous for users (more products, competitive prices …) and vendors (shared development efforts …) alike. -AS-International, the member-funded owner of the AS-Interface specification, was founded in 1991 -A few years later, in 1994, AS-Interface was introduced to the market -Local groups including AS-Interface USA exist, offer local events like technical seminars -The AS-International Association Web site (www.AS-interface.net) informs about events and products

What if automatic node replacement fails? AS-Interface gateways typically offer automatic node replacement indication when the function is available. If the AS-Interface gateway does not turn this indication on, it means that this function is simply not possible. Reasons include: -Auto addressing has been disabled (through the PLC or display) -Gateway is not in Run mode (PRJ LED is illuminated on Pepperl+Fuchs devices) -More than one module failed; Pepperl+Fuchs gateways do allow automatic multi-node replacement -Replacement module not at ADR=0 -Replacement module is not identical (listen to episodes 35 - 39 for additional help)

Troubleshooting. At some point, you'll need to troubleshoot your AS-Interface system - it happens. After years of trouble-free operation, an AS-Interface system is just not running any longer. Here are a few easy things to check: -Remove modules from the network until things work again. -Verify AS-Interface and AUX cable to be connected to the correct tray. -Ground faults. To fix, remove modules until the error is gone. -Length. Use the length indicator on the cable to figure out the network length. Try the terminator with an analyzer.

What are the most common AS-Interface errors? There are a few errors that are made repeatedly when installing AS-Interface. The good news is that these errors are easily prevented and easy to correct even after the fact: -Network is too long due to misinterpretation of the 100 m segment length limit -Using a conventional power supply to power AS-Interface -Using the AS-Interface power supply to ALSO power AUX -AS-Interface cable installed in the same tray as power cable

Replacing an AS-Interface gateway. AS-Interface has been around for 20 years and there will come a time when a user wants to or needs to replace an old gateway. A few years ago, AS-Interface gateways with memory cards started to show up that will make gateway replacement trivial. Replacing an older unit is more of a manual process and users need to consider the following: -Mailbox size -Setting the IP address (or network addresses in general) -GSD or EDS files Watch the video: How to Set the IP Address on an AS-Interface, EtherNet/IP Gateway

Why use AS-Interface with an upper level bus? Engineers frequently ask why they should use AS Interface when they already have EtherNet/IP or PROFIBUS. Simplicity and flexibility are the main reasons and the AS-Interface flat cable is at the center of this since it offers the following features: -Ability to connect modules exactly where needed without custom cable length -Ability to install modules at the sensor, which reduces wiring even further -Ability to combine I/O modules to get virtually any I/O density desired -Safety without the need for a safety PLC

Why use AS-Interface instead of hardwiring I/O? Even though conventional I/O hardware is most likely cheaper than AS-Interface I/O modules, users need to consider the hidden cost of hardwiring: -Enclosures, knockouts, and marshaling terminals -Conduit and cable trays -Cable and installation labor -PLC backplane limits -Shipping and startup

Years ago, Pepperl+Fuchs offered a line of KF and KF2 AS-Interface modules.  These were very popular and are found in many process automation applications.  Tim and Helge discuss what users need to be aware of when they replace a KF/KF2 module with a modern KE module.  Tim even mentions a nice trick that allows users to be able to replace a failed AS-Interface KF/KF2 module in 10 seconds.

As AS-Interface installations get older, "non- exact" module replacements get more important. This week we will cover replacing 2-input safety modules and an integrated safety e-stop. Other items discussed are the AS-Interface power supply, gateway, repeater, and the latching safety door switch. You can also use the AS-Interface Power Calculator to help you verify the configuration of your AS-Interface network.

What can an AS-Interface user do when an old 4-input / 4-output module is no longer available?  Similarly, what can be done when an old 2-input / 2-output AS-Interface module fails? As it turns out, when it comes to replacing really old modules, a full address 4-input / 4-output module is most likely the easiest way to go.

Automatic single node replace -- Replacing a single failed AS-Interface module is simple. Remove the failed module and replace it with an identical replacement module. In addition to using an identical replacement module, the AS-Interface gateway must be in protected mode, i.e., there cannot be a configuration error.  Pepperl+Fuchs' gateways even support automatic multi-node replacement - just keep an eye on the PRG enable LED.

AS-Interface configuration errors -- What is a "configuration" and what does "configuration error" mean?  AS-Interface configuration errors occur if a module is added to or removed from a running system.  LEDs and text on LC Displays provide user feedback and help correct configuration errors.

Getting help quickly and when needed (after hours!) is important. Our website, www.sensing.net/asi provides this kind of help, service, and support—all the time any time. It's for all AS-Interface users and is not restricted to only Pepperl+Fuchs products. Using videos, documents, and example files, visitors will: - Learn how to set up an AS-Interface network - Configure an Allen-Bradley PLC to interface with AS-Interface - Have access to many safety configuration examples - Watch short "In a Hurry" videos on many useful topics

New AS-Interface Ethernet gateways provide the functionality of ControlTools through a Web interface. - Advantages of the Web-based approach - Drawbacks - Non-Ethernet gateways with Ethernet diagnostics port