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Ethernet/IP communications added to controllers

08 February 2010

Gefran has added Ethernet/IP communications to its GFX4 and GFXTERM04 multi-channel temperature controllers. The full featured GFX4 family adds Ethernet/IP to a choice of several fieldbus communication options and the four loop temperature controller is available in PID control only or fully integrated versions complete with relays, current transformers and fuses - offering control panel space-saving and reduced installation timescales.

The din-rail, panel mounted range measures just 25 mm x147 mm x 160mm and features configurable universal inputs, manual tuning or autotuning functions and advanced diagnostics with all interfacing via pluggable connectors. The Ethernet/IP option allows expansion for up to 16 temperature zones by daisy chaining Ethernet for up to four GFX4 controllers. The GFX4 supports a master/slave configuration, helping to reduce network wiring.

Ethernet/IP set-up is simplified with pre-configured GFX4 message blocks that are imported into the Rockwell RSLogix program. Multiple diagnostic functions include "loop break alarm" and "heater break alarm" where alarm conditions may be monitored and immediately identified with relay alarms and LED indicators.

The GXF4 is available with many other fieldbus communication options including RS485 Modbus, Profibus, DeviceNet , CanOpen and Ethernet (Modbus over TCP/IP or GDnet), with protocols for direct connection to PLCs, HMIs and Industrial PCs without further converters.