Press Release

The EtherCAT Terminal system offers users simple solutions for integration of high-precision measurement technology without the need for complex familiarisation. EtherCAT Terminals unite maximum performance with maximum accuracy and make special subassemblies redundant due to the seamless integration of the measurement technology in the automation solution.

EtherCAT as a measurement bus

EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology) is the real-time Ethernet bus system that is especially characterised by high performance and particularly simple handling. The increasing requirements of high-end measurement technology as regards bandwidth and real-time communication can be optimally solved using EtherCAT. Due to the Ethernet functionality, which is a fixed component of PC technology, EtherCAT can be used in measurement technology without significant expenditure. Measurement data recording systems on an EtherCAT basis digitise the measured variables close to the sensor. They also acquire all data necessary for the control of the plant. The high bandwidth and strong deterministics of EtherCAT make high-precision measurements possible – with a time stamp as well for correlation to other data. Special auxiliary controllers and expensive measurement technology cards are replaced with standard EtherCAT I/Os.

I/O systems for measurement technology

The Beckhoff I/O systems offer numerous modules for standard measurement technology: from energy, temperature, pressure and frequency terminals to digital multimeter terminals. EtherCAT Terminals also enable high-end measurement technology, since measured values are transferred to the Industrial PC with precise time stamps. The EL3632 EtherCAT Terminal integrates Condition Monitoring functions simply in the PC-based control system. The EtherCAT communication system passes the acquired status data on to the PC controller. Configuration, programming and diagnostics take place on one system using TwinCAT.

Scientific Automation – from the black box into the PC

In conjunction with high-performance EtherCAT Terminals and the high-speed EtherCAT fieldbus, the high-performance Industrial PCs from Beckhoff offer an ideal basis for integrating engineering science into automation software. Special functions such as measurement technology and Condition Monitoring are realised based on software in a CPU, so that all functions can be optimally utilised. Measured data are transferred to the central control system via a fast fieldbus. A number of PLC libraries with various filters and controllers are available for this purpose. The TwinCAT Scope 2 software oscilloscope is predestined for the graphic evaluation and logging of data.