Ethernet/IP Modules feature Intel IXP465 network processor.

Press Release Summary:



Part of ControlLogix family of controllers, EtherNet/IP Modules are suited for users running demanding I/O and bridging applications, or applications with large volume of HMI traffic. Units work with existing EtherNet/IP products and provide capacity for future expansion. Able to transport 10,000 packets/sec, 1-slot modules include 3 rotary switches for setting IP address, and USB port, which enables engineers to make updates, troubleshoot, and configure system from laptop computer.



Original Press Release:



Rockwell Automation Increases EtherNet/IP Performance and Capacity for ControlLogix Systems



New modules include USB ports, easy setup and replacement

MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio, Nov. 2, 2006 - ControlLogix users with high-performance or capacity networking requirements now have two new EtherNet/IP module options recently added to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix family of controllers from Rockwell Automation. The new modules are the first products from Rockwell Automation to feature the Intel IXP465 network processor chip designed specifically for the rigorous performance demands of manufacturing environments.

"Manufacturers are dramatically increasing the use of the information and control capabilities built into the ControlLogix platform," said Joe Lee, product manager at Rockwell Automation. "By enhancing our communication products for ControlLogix, our customers can take advantage of the speed at which plant-floor information is captured and distributed throughout the enterprise."

Ideal for users running demanding I/O and bridging applications, or applications with a large volume of human-machine interface (HMI) traffic, the new modules work with existing EtherNet/IP products and provide capacity to allow for future expansion of users' networks. With connectivity now available for twisted pair (EN2T) and fiber (EN2F) cables, the new modules provide an answer for applications with high I/O, drive, peer-to-peer, and bridging traffic than was previously available with the existing Rockwell Automation 1756-ENBT product line. The new one-slot EtherNet/IP modules support twice the I/O capacity of the existing module, while accommodating four times the HMI activity. This means the modules can transport 10,000 packets per second.

The new modules also include some user-friendly features. A USB port, located on the front of the module, provides easy access to the ControlLogix system. An engineer can use a laptop computer, connected via a standard USB cable, to make updates, troubleshoot and configure their entire system, without the need for custom PC configuration. Further, three rotary switches on the top of the module enable users to set their IP address as an alternative to other software methods.

The copper version of the EtherNet/IP module will be available globally in November 2006, while the fiber module will follow in early 2007. For more information on these new modules or on applying EtherNet/IP please visit http://www.ab.com/networks/ethernet.html.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 23,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries. For more information on EtherNet/IP, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn. 55438, 800.223.5354, ext. 1912.

All reader inquiries should be directed to Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn. 55438, 800.223.5354, ext. 1912.

Allen-Bradley and ControlLogix are trademarks of Rockwell Automation Inc. EtherNet/IP is a trademark of ControlNet International Ltd.

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