Determination of the cable types

Selection of suitable measured variables and measurement methods

Investigation of realistic cabling structures

Signal-based investigations

Learn more about Single Pair Ethernet.

New connection – yet proven a billion times over

Phoenix Contact has introduced the Push-X technology, a tool-free connection method that enables flexible conductor connections without pretreatment. This innovative technology uses the Push-in connection from Phoenix Contact, which has been used for years and is primarily found in the terminal block sector. Additionally, the new technology uses a trigger inside the terminal block, triggers a pre-tensioned spring, and has been redesigned for vertical connection.

One connection compatible with all conductors

The Push-X system is suitable for all types of conductors, including rigid and flexible ones. It uses a pretensioned spring on delivery, releasing the locking mechanism with light pressure. Eeven the smallest flexible conductors can be connected without tools. The orange actuating push button signals the connection and audible feedback. The system is easy to release and reuse, with any tool being used to return the button to its original position.

New to the market, but already a whole family

The Push-X family has also introduced new XTV terminal blocks, available in nominal cross-sections of 6 mm², 10 mm², and 16 mm². These terminal blocks are part of the Clipline Complete system, offering advantages such as vertical connection, lateral entry, and easy-to-read terminal point marking. Furthermore, the XTV technology is compatible with other systems and can be combined with other accessories. So, switching to using terminal blocks with Push-X technology will not be a problem. The terminal blocks are similar to spring-cage and Push-in terminal blocks.

Save a lot of time with Push-X technology

The All Electric Society is transforming infrastructure for renewable energy distribution and storage, increasing demand for switchgear and controlgear systems. To improve efficiency, tool-free connection technologies like Push-in and Push-X are being used. Push-X eliminates the need to change tools and requires no further checks, making it quick and easy to switch.

Learn more about Push-X technology

Cost and time savings with increased safety and better quality

The digital twin, often associated with the Asset Administration Shell (AAS) in the German “Plattform Industrie 4.0” initiative, is a crucial tool in the manufacturing sector for securing automation applications. It provides a digital image of a complete automation application, enabling users to simulate individual components’ behavior and provide a comprehensive view of the entire production process.

Decisive use case of the industrial digital twin

The digital twin is a digital representation of manufacturing system components, used to simulate and analyze production systems. It helps identify potential fault scenarios and simulates system behavior under different conditions. Virtual commissioning is a crucial use case for industrial digital twins, especially in complex production systems. It allows for cost-effective testing of virtual models before completion, enables safe testing without endangering people, machines, or the environment, and helps detect faults early, improving end-product quality and shortening startup time.

Efficient implementation based on the RF::Suite

EKS InTec GmbH’s RF::Suite is a software tool for virtual commissioning in machine building and systems manufacturing. Its modular and scalable approach allows for flexible use in various applications, making it an integral part of the automotive industry. The tool also offers benefits beyond virtual commissioning, such as instructing employees and ensuring realism independently of the production system’s control hardware.

PLCnext Technology open ecosystem for current and future automation tasks

Phoenix Contact’s PLCnext technology is an open ecosystem for automation, combining automation tasks and IIoT demands in a single device. It includes the PLCnext Engineer software platform, PLCnext Store digital marketplace, PLCnext Community, and systemic cloud integration. The firmware architecture is Linux-based, allowing users to use IEC 61131-3 code, high-level languages, and Matlab Simulink control algorithm models. The platform also allows users to add Linux-based components, data management, and communication protocols.

Virtual SiL simulation of the complete system to be automated

Virtual commissioning can involve various control systems, including hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) concepts and virtual automation systems. The RF::Suite generates simulations of the planned physical system, allowing for initial test scenarios and code improvements. PLCnext Engineer Simulation allows users to configure, execute, and test projects in a virtual environment, including IEC 61131-3 code, Matlab Simulink models, and high-level language components. Further development of PLCnext Engineer Simulation will enable the simulation of the entire automation system, creating a digital twin for automation. This approach allows for seamless interaction between the physical and virtual systems, ensuring optimal performance and optimization.

Learn more about PLCnext technology and Virtual commissioning

Smart connectivity

Phoenix Contact offers Varioface system cabling, a plug-and-play solution for fast and error-free connection between control and field-level sensors and actuators. Embracing the plug-and-play principle, this product family aligns with the All Electric Society vision of the future, offering comprehensive planning tools and hardware products. In addition, the Varioface system cabling is industry-compatible, contributes to greater clarity and efficiency, and reduces costs. It saves up to 90% of the time required for conventional single-core wiring by using various components and D-Sub connector connections.

Use of more compact and less expensive 24 V DC I/O modules

Digital control and power signals are processed differently in various applications. 230 V I/O modules are more expensive and require more space than 24 V signal levels. To optimize cost and space, a 24 V DC I/O module combined with Phoenix Contact’s PLC-Interface relay family is ideal. This results in a compact eight-channel relay module, which can be integrated directly into the system cabling solution. Moreover, the PLC-Interface product family offers several advantages, including plug-in design, screw or push-in connection technology, numerous switching elements, special sensor/actuator series, narrow design, and modular design, allowing space and cost-optimization for a wide range of application requirements.

Quick and easy wiring with Push-in or screw connection technology

Phoenix Contact offers termination boards for control cabinets. In addition, this allows users to wire single-core wires of sensors and actuators quickly and easily using Push-in direct connection technology or screw connection technology. The VIP series features terminal block markings that correspond to Simatic ET 200SP HA terminal blocks. This ensures quick mounting and vibration resistance. Additionally, the complete variable coupling level from Phoenix Contact is equipped with high-position D-Sub connectors, allowing connections between passive or active field modules and plug-in I/O devices. A range of lengths and halogen-free materials are available for optimal cable connection.

Tailor-made solution with the online configurator

Lastly, Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive web shop for system cabling products. This includes an online configurator for component selection. Furthermore, users can easily select the desired Simatic ET 200SP HA I/O module, navigate through options, and transfer the solution to their shopping cart. what’s more, this efficient, modular, and plug-in solution saves time and money.

Learn more about System cabling for controllers.