EtherCAT P Beckhoff's new I/O system for sensors and actuators combines EtherCAT communications and a power supply into a standard, four-wire Ethernet cable. The red and black cables pictured carry both power and data, while the yellow cable, part of the original EtherCAT product line, carries only data.
What's new? Various one-cable components, which have been added to the EtherCAT P product line since it was introduced last year. The newest components, available for the past few months, include the EPP9001 EtherCAT P/EtherCAT connector with power transmission and the EPP1322 EtherCAT P junction with power feed-in. The components can be used to set up the required network architecture in a plant.
Benefits More leverage to reduce machine footprint, with easier connections among I/O components and stations, and greater flexibility for the entire automation process. Using EtherCAT P reduces material costs for machinery, as well as the time and cost of installation. Because the cable combines both power and communications, it takes up less space than other systems, with less risk for installation errors. Also, the EtherCAT P cables make possible smaller-size sensors and actuators because they simplify power electronics.
Beckhoff Automation LLC, Savage, Minn., 952-890-0000, www.beckhoff.com
