New CP-Link 4 from Beckhoff Delivers One Cable Display Link for Industrial Displays


Highly efficient connection technology enables up to 100 m cable runs for industrial multi-touch displays



SAVAGE, Minnesota — In order to maximize cabling efficiency and flexibility for industrial Control Panel displays, Beckhoff Automation has released the new CP-Link 4 solution. The latest generation of multi-touch industrial displays from Beckhoff offers a wide range of screen sizes/formats and connection options. CP-Link 4 is a perfect extension of this product portfolio via simple, standards-based connection technology. A significant advantage of CP-Link 4 technology is the use of standard CAT.6A cables. They are easy to install, available in drag chain versions, and offer field-configurable standard plug connectors. Alternatively, pre-assembled cables are available from Beckhoff as accessories. The plug-and-play connection makes commissioning and installation simple and convenient. In addition, CP-Link 4 requires no special software or drivers. CP-Link 4 technology is directly integrated into the passive versions of panels in the multi-touch series from Beckhoff, so displays with an integrated processor are not required. On the PC side, the CP-Link 4 connection can be made either via the PCIe module slot in the Industrial PC (IPC) or via the CU880x transmitter boxes. The following connection options are available:



The One Cable Display Link: In the single-cable solution, the DVI signal, USB 2.0 signal, and 24 V power supply are transferred via one cable. The CU8803 transmitter box provides the power supply for the Control Panel via the CAT.6Acable, which can be up to 100 m long. The CU8803 box can be connected to any PC via a DVI and USB cable and requires a 24 V supply.



The Two Cable Display Link: With this connection option, DVI and USB 2.0 are transferred via a CAT.6A cable. The CU8802 transmitter box is connected to the PC via DVI and USB, or the C9900-E276 PCIe module integrated into a Beckhoff IPC. The power supply is separate and is switchable, such as for emergency stop solutions with parallel wiring.



Beckhoff – the pioneer for industrial display connection technology As one of the earliest manufacturers of industrial display connection technology, Beckhoff launched the first version of CP-Link in 1998. It enabled operating panels to be located away from the PC for the first time. Via two standard coaxial cables, this version could be used to bridge a distance of up to 100 m between the PC and operator interface. In 2006, Beckhoff presented the second generation of its display connection technology as a further innovation: surpassing the 5 m DVI/USB standard distance, the DVI/USB Extended technology, based on standard cables, enabled distances of up to 50 m between the Industrial PC and the operating panel. An evolution in this area, DVI/USB Extended 2.0 technology is offered with the new multi-touch panel series.



The CP-Link 3 concept is a pure software solution, using standard cable technologies to facilitate versatile connection of Panel PCs with an Industrial PC. It enables connection of up to 255 Ethernet Panels. The collective expertise built from 15 years of experience in the creation of flexible visualization and operating concepts is now bundled into the CP-Link 4 generation, based on leading-edge, single-cable technology.



Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 60 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.



Beckhoff Automation LLC

13130 Dakota Ave

Savage, MN 55378

Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT

Local: 952-890-0000

Fax: 952-890-2888

email: beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com

www.beckhoffautomation.com



Media contact:

Shane Novacek

Beckhoff Automation

Phone: 952-808-6515

s.novacek@beckhoff.com

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