I/O Modules double I/O channels.

Press Release Summary:



High-density, 32-point I/O modules for FLEX I/O system are available as 24 Vdc sink input or 24 Vdc protected source output. FLEX I/O system consists of interchangeable network adapters, terminal bases, and I/O modules. It provides connectivity for 8 modules per network adapter, giving users 256 I/O channels for every adapter using 32-point modules (up from 128). Modules are suitable for applications with high volume of data monitoring and operator interface panels.



Original Press Release:



High-Density, 32-Point Modules for the Allen-Bradley FLEX I/O System Reduce Costs and Space Requirements



MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio, Aug. 1, 2002 - Complete automation leader
Rockwell Automation has introduced 32-point I/O modules for the Allen-Bradley line of FLEX I/O. Doubling the I/O channels currently available, these high-density modules help manufacturers cut the per-point cost and space requirements of distributed I/O applications.

"Users now have access to twice as many I/O points in the same amount of space, and at a fraction of the cost," said Jim Iubelt, FLEX I/O product manager, Rockwell Automation. "With the 32-point modules, FLEX I/O now has one of the smallest, most dense footprints of the expandable I/O platforms on the market."

Along with space and cost savings, the new modules decrease the number of nodes on a network. That's because the FLEX I/O system provides connectivity for eight modules per network adapter. This gives users 256 I/O channels for every adapter using the 32-point modules (up from 128), allowing them to connect more devices to a single node. The result is a substantial increase in throughput and a reduction in the number of networks needed.

Available as either a 24Vdc sink input (1794-IB32) or 24Vdc protected source output (1794-OB32P), the 32-point modules are designed for general industrial and process control applications, including: food and beverage, material handling, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, transportation, and water and wastewater. In particular, they are ideal for applications with a high volume of data monitoring and operator interface panels.

FLEX I/O is a modular I/O system that provides the functionality of a larger, rack-based I/O system, but without costly hardware, installation and space requirements. Compatible with ControlNet, DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS DP 12 MB, Remote I/O and other popular networks, the system consists of three interchangeable components: network adapters, terminal bases and I/O modules. The interchangeable, compact components allow end users to create a system specific for their application. The 1794-IB32 and 1794-OB32P FLEX I/O modules are shipping.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) is a world-leading provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help customers meet their manufacturing productivity objectives. The company brings together leading brands in industrial automation for Complete Automation solutions, including Allen-Bradley controls and engineered services and Rockwell Software factory management software, Dodge mechanical power transmission products, and Reliance Electric motors and drives. The company also is a leading provider of contact management technologies and applications that help companies more efficiently manage interaction with their own customers. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., USA, the company employs approximately 23,000 people at more than 450 locations serving customers in more than 80 countries.

For more information on the FLEX I/O 32-point modules, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, Ext. 1543.

Complete Automation, Dodge, Reliance Electric, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Software and FLEX are trademarks of Rockwell Automation. ControlNet is a trademark of ControlNet International. DeviceNet is a trademark of the Open DeviceNet Vendor Association.

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