Omron Boosts Ethernet Chip

TOKYO -- OMRON (TSE: 6645; OTC: OMRNY) has redefined the threshold for distributed control over 100 Mbit/s Ethernet by integrating a 100Base-TX Ethernet interface on its smallest modular PLC. Three new CPU models in the CJ1M PLC range add a reliable, high speed Ethernet interface to the existing two serial ports, providing an economical method of connecting a PLC to Industrial Ethernet networks for seamless and smart distributed control.

"Communication over Industrial Ethernet has so far been restricted to high-end PLC models, but the appeal of Ethernet is far more wide ranging," says Omron's Product Manager for PLCs, Theo Mattaar. "With the launch of these new CPUs for the CJ1M range, we're enabling a whole new group of users to take advantage of the functional and economic benefits of Ethernet networks for distributed control. At the same time, we haven't compromised on serial communications, so with the new CPUs you can connect the PLC to Ethernet networks whilst retaining the ability to make serial data links to existing peripheral devices."

Speed and Transparency

Up to 255 nodes can be linked using secure connection-based TCP/IP data communication - with Omron's proven industrial FINS (Factory Intelligent Network Service) protocol on Ethernet, data can be seamlessly exchanged peer-to-peer between PLCs on the network. At the same time, the Ethernet interface greatly increases communication speed for PLC programming, commissioning and monitoring.

As a key component in Omron's Smart Platform concept, the CJ1 system has built-in transparent message routing. This gives higher level controllers direct access to devices connected to the CJ1, or indeed gives the CJ1 direct access to other PLCs on the Ethernet network and to any of their connected field devices. And the transparent message routing functionality means that no PLC programming is required to effect these links.

The Ethernet advantage

Integrating an Ethernet interface brings other benefits, too. Users can take advantage of FTP server functions to access data stored in the CJ1's memory or on the standard CompactFlash cards that can be used with any CJ1 CPU. Thus programs, settings or log files can be easily transferred to or from PCs across the Ethernet network. The CJ1 also features a built-in web server, allowing users to configure its Ethernet functions via HTML pages using a standard browser on any connected PC. Alternatively, configuration of the CPU's Ethernet functions can be performed using CX-Programmer - Omron's universal programming software for all PLCs.

Omron Corp.