Programmable Logic Controllers
The $129 Full-Feature NANO-10 Ethernet PLC
The Nano-10 PLC from Triangle Research Int'l, Inc. only has 10 I/Os, but is a full-function programmable logic controller with many of the features found only in bigger and much more expensive PLCs. Measuring only 3.3" by 2.8" and weighing in at 2.6 oz, this $129 nano class controller packs a big punch and stands out with the inclusion of a built-in Ethernet port which supports MODBUS TCP/IP Server and Client connections. In addition, an RS485 connection which supports native host link commands protocol as well as MODBUS RTU and MODBUS ASCII, makes it possible not only to communicate with other Triangle Research PLCs, but also to work with a whole range of other devices that support the same industry standards.
Designed to be internet-savvy, the Nano-10 allows machine OEMs or integrators to easily create a web page that allows them to control the equipment without writing a single line of Internet program. This is cleverly done by simply defining a background image and modifying a few variables that define the I/O labels and their locations on a browser screen.
Programming of the Nano-10 is done using the highly acclaimed and very efficient iTrilogi "Ladder+BASIC" language. The PLC has 4 digital inputs which support high speed counter and interrupt functions. The 4 digital outputs (2 of which are voltage-free relays) are capable of supplying 2 channels of PWM current, or control pulse and direction for a stepper motor. Other features of this PLC include a fast CPU processing speed of 4 µs per step, counters/internal relays/sequencers, PID computation engine, real time clock plus an optional module for battery back-up.
The pricing of the Nano-10 brings a whole new level of PLC sophistication to smaller and lower end automated machines. The Nano-10 is ideal in applications which require a small I/O count but which have the same demand for capabilities and networking as larger and more complex systems.
Special feature of the Nano-10 PLC is a "User Quick Setup of a PLC Control Web Page". The Nano-10 PLC allows users to easily create their own graphic web page for remote interaction with the controlled equipment without the need to write any Internet program. A user is only required to define a background image and modify relevant variables that define the I/O labels and their locations on a browser screen for a quick set-up his/her own custom-made control web page.
Triangle Research International, Inc. is a PLC design/manufacturing company specializing in board-level programmable controllers with optimized and advanced feature sets and pricing for Automation OEMs.
Address : 571 West 57th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6P6S5, Canada
Tel. 1 877 874-7527 Website : www.tri-plc.com
