Wiring System offers plug-and-play functionality.

Press Release Summary:



PanelConnect(TM) wiring system allows assemblers to connect I/O devices to programmable controllers without need of DIN rails or terminal blocks via plug-and-play design. Maintaining IP65/NEMA 4 rating, product suits stand-alone or non-DeviceNet(TM) applications in packaging, automotive, and food/beverage industries. Unit supports PLC(TM) I/O architectures including Allen-Bradley 1769 Compact I/O, 1746 SLC(TM) 500 I/O, 1756 ControlLogix(TM) I/O, and 1771 Universal I/O.



Original Press Release:



Rockwell Automation Introduces First "Plug-and-Play" Wiring System for Output Devices and NEMA 4X-Rated Panels



Additions to Allen-Bradley® PanelConnect(TM) family reduce labor costs, speed installations and dramatically simplify field device wiring

MILWAUKEE, Jan. 14, 2003-To help OEMs and panel builders reduce installation time and expense and maximize panel space, Complete Automation® leader Rockwell Automation has expanded its Allen-Bradley® PanelConnect(TM) wiring system for output devices and NEMA 4X-rated for inputs and outputs modules. The new wiring system allows assemblers to quickly and easily connect input and output devices to programmable controllers without the need of din rails or terminal blocks. PanelConnect for outputs is ideal for OEMs looking for a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution for connecting output devices, like pneumatic valves, through the panel enclosure.

"In wiring pneumatic valves, for example, OEMs are forced to deal with multi-pin connectors and screw-wired terminal blocks to achieve an effective through-panel connection," said James Hribar, product manager, Rockwell Automation. "The new PanelConnect output module eliminates this time-consuming step by providing a single plug-in connection through the wall of the cabinet while maintaining an IP65 (NEMA 4) rating."

The Allen-Bradley PanelConnect family of enclosure-mounted modules is designed to easily integrate field devices while maintaining environmental integrity of the panel enclosure. PanelConnect's modular, plug-and-play design allows OEMs to set up and disassemble machines with greater ease, resulting in reduced labor costs, faster installations and more effective use of panel space. They also help eliminate the unsightly wire bundles associated with terminal strips.

Ideal for stand-alone or non-DeviceNet(TM) applications in the packaging, automotive and food and beverage industries, PanelConnect supports Allen-Bradley PLC(TM) I/O architectures including Allen-Bradley 1769 Compact I/O, 1746 SLC(TM) 500 I/O, 1756 ControlLogix(TM) I/O and 1771 Universal I/O. In addition, PanelConnect modules are designed to work with the Allen-Bradley connection systems, as well as a variety of leading field connection systems, including both North American and European (metric) connectors.

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 about 22,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.

For more information on the PanelConnect for Input and Output Devices, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, Ext. 1571.

Complete Automation, PLC, Dodge, Reliance Electric, Allen-Bradley, and Rockwell Software are registered trademarks of Rockwell Automation. PanelConnect, ControlLogix and SLC are trademarks of Rockwell Automation.

DeviceNet is a trademark of the Open DeviceNet Vendor Association.

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