Issue 51 2024NewsPress ReleasesPress Releases

New LS Electric EtherCAT® PLC Modules and Servo Systems from AutomationDirect

EtherCAT controller modules

January 17, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added EtherCAT controller modules for the LS Electric XGB PLC family.  These new modules work in conjunction with our new lineup of LS Electric iX7 EtherCAT servo systems for highly accurate multi-axis motion control functionality. Both 4-axis and 8-axis EtherCAT controller modules are available; up to two of these motion modules can be installed in an XGB PLC system for control of up to 16 EtherCAT servo axes.

With output power from 400W to 3.5kW, iX7 EtherCAT servo systems offer 9 perfectly matched sets of servo motors, drives, cables, and accessories. Multiple input power options (110 VAC and 230 VAC) are available and these systems are fully digital with 1kHz velocity loop response and can be used with any EtherCAT-compatible PLC/host controller or any controller with ModbusTCP capability. iX7 servo systems also offer Safe Torque Off (STO), eliminating the need for large external E-stop contactors.

Network motion control options include Cyclic Mode where all drives are updated every EtherCAT cycle (~1 millisecond) with position, velocity, or torque setpoints, and Profile Mode with drives receiving target setpoints for each move over an EtherCAT or ModbusTCP network.

All motion parameters are stored, loaded, and triggered in the PLC (simplifying your control scheme). Networked motion control capabilities include storage of up to 400 position setpoints (per axis) in the PLC, electronic camming, registration, flying shear, advanced torque control, and more.

The EtherCAT PLC modules start at $350; EtherCAT-compatible servo drives start at $495.  Matching servo motors start at $273.00.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information, contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact:         Tina Gable

Phone:                          678-455-1845

Email:                          tgable@automationdirect.com

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