Automation Controller: Rockwell Automation Offers New Allen-Bradley ControlLogix Programmable Automation Controller With Twice The Memory
Extension to ControlLogix family features 16MB of memory for enhanced processing performance
The newest extension to the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix family of controllers from Rockwell Automation features 16MB of memory — twice the capacity of the most powerful existing model, for data-intensive applications requiring higher memory capacity. The Allen-Bradley ControlLogix L64 Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) allows for more efficient use of system capacity with the centralization of such applications as alarming, that in the past was shared by external devices such as human-machine interfaces (HMI).
Traditional alarming systems are managed by the application's HMI products. With FactoryTalk Alarms and Events the alarming control is now managed by the Logix PAC. This reduces duplicate development efforts in both the controller and the HMI. "They reduce application development because they can be programmed more quickly and help to minimize errors that can occur through code duplication," said Scott Tenorio, product marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. "Factory Talk Alarms and Events greatly reduces data polling, while freeing up valuable controller resources, as well as network bandwidth. Management of alarm state and timestamps by the controller improves information accuracy and helps with consistency for both operators and maintenance personnel."
Additionally the 1756-L64 controller is ideal for use in the ControlLogix redundancy solution. A future release of the ControlLogix V16 redundancy firmware will qualify the L64 controller for use in redundancy applications. Assisting with bumpless controller switchover, the redundant ControlLogix controllers utilize more memory than a standard application in order to provide data synchronization between the primary and secondary controllers. The additional memory on the L64 will permit its use in larger redundancy applications.
For information-intensive applications, such as batch processing, that require the use of recipe data, the ControlLogix PAC provides larger storage capacity to locally store more data, enabling the user to switch recipes to meet production line demands.
The ControlLogix L64 can take advantage of the enhancements in RSLogix 5000 Version 16 programming software, including user-defined add-on instructions, integrated drive configuration and RSLogix FuzzyDesigner.
As part of the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture™, the ControlLogix PAC leverages the Rockwell Automation Logix Control Platform, featuring a common control engine, common programming software and communications services to help increase functionality, scalability and flexibility while reducing costs. This platform is ideal for multidisciplined control and applications requiring integration with higher-level information systems.
The Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 1756-L64 is available and currently shipping.
About Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 23,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
For more information on condition-based maintenance programs, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, ext. 1970. http://www.ab.com/go/controllogix64