Category Archives: Industrial Electronics

PTV Lateral Push-in Technology

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Push-in Terminal blocks in vertical orientation?

Yes, I am sure most of us are aware of the easy-installation technology, called Push-in Technology. If you have never heard of it, please allow me to explain it with Phoenix Contact’s history.

Phoenix Contact was the first to develop modular terminal blocks. It actually started with screw terminal blocks and then gradually innovated with newer technologies.

Universal UT screw connection

Moving on from screw terminal blocks, we came up with spring-cage terminal blocks. Using the screwdriver, the spring-cage would be opened, allowing the user to install the conductor.

Compact ST spring-cage connection

And finally, we have Push-in technology which does not require you to get any tools to install rigid or ferrule fitted conductors. Yes, all you have to do is just slot the conductor into the hole and push it in, Voilà!

Again, with Phoenix Contact’s continuous innovation, we did not stop here. We now have lateral Push-in technology!

Instead of inserting the conductor from the top, now you can push it in from the side.

So, how does it benefit us more?

  • Best Ergonomics

Just like PT terminal blocks, you can connect rigid or ferrule fitted conductors directly without using any tools. Regardless of the listed conductor size you use, the contact spring ensures maximum contact and conductor pull-out forces with a vibration-resistant, gas-tight connection.

PTV, in fact, is best when it comes to a Fuse terminal block with push-in technology. If you are a user of this, you might have already faced this little situation. When you try to disconnect the fuse holder, the conductor might block you from flipping it over fully. With lateral Push-in technology, you have full freedom of flipping the fuse holder.

  • Best System compatibility

PTV, as a part of CLIPLINE complete, allows you to use the same set of accessories as other CLIPLINE complete terminal blocks with different connection technologies. The list of accessories for disconnect terminal blocks is:

  1. fuse plugs
  2. component connectors
  3. feed-through connectors, and
  4. isolating plugs

This versatility enables you to customize your switching devices.

  • Best Clarity

The conductors entering from the side will not bend and cover your markings on the terminal block. This also enables easier identification of conductor markings and connection.

Today, you can find the Push-in technology in various terminal block types from normal feed-through terminal blocks to even test disconnect terminal blocks. With our new lateral Push-in technology, we can offer you an even wider range of terminal blocks!

3 Key Reasons Why a Managed Switch Is Required in a Network Topology

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Most of us should know that there are 2 main categories of network switches, the Unmanaged Switch & the Managed Switch. However, sometimes we struggle to understand when to use a managed switch.

In this article, we will look at 3 key reasons why a managed switch is required in a network topology. Hopefully, after this, you can make use of these 3 key reasons to identify when a managed switch should be used.

Reason 1 – Building network redundancy

Not every type of network topology provides a redundancy mechanism. And what that means is that they will often have a single point of failure – where if one network switch fails, it will stop the entire network from working. Some examples of network topology without redundancy include Bus, Star and Tree etc.

To provide more than a single point of failure, network topology with redundancy mechanisms such as the Ring, Mesh and Hybrid must be used. Managed Switches can support such network topologies through different network protocols. Examples of the protocols include Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP), Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), etc.

Reason 2 – Acquire and provide data for network diagnostics

As Lord Kelvin puts it, “To measure is to know. If you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it.” Similarly, we need to know the diagnostic data of our network topology, to understand its status and improve it.

A Managed Switch provides important information that can help us to monitor the network topology and call for maintenance before full failure of the system happens. This could be classified as predictive maintenance, which brings great reliability benefits.

Some key diagnostic information includes:

  • Port connection status 
  • Redundancy connection status
  • Power supply status (Interruptions)  

The acquisition of these information could also be achieved through different automation protocols such as MODBUS, Profinet, Ethernet/IP etc.

Reason 3 – Security features

Managed switches offer security features such as user-interface & port security.

A user-interface security prevents any unauthorised access into the switch management and configuration. While port security allows only devices with a registered MAC-address to send and receive data packets through the network switches.

Summary

There are many other applications of Managed Switches, such as the use of Layer 3 & VLAN applications, which are critical for big networks. In Phoenix Contact, we provide a good range of network switches for different applications that you might have. Find out more in the following link or contact us at Phoenix Contact SEA.

Power Reliability for the ‘New Normal’

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With the backdrop of COVID-19, the new reality taking shape is made of complexity, uncertainty and opportunities. Industries are rapidly adjusting, and as the crisis unfolds, it is important for us to adapt to the new ways of business and life in this ‘new normal’.

The 4th Industrial revolution has picked up its pace, with the pandemic highlighting the role of technology, such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, robotics and big data. To adapt and thrive, automation industries must accelerate and transform with more resilient, reliable and agile power solutions.

In Phoenix Contact, we have a comprehensive range of technologically leading products, ensuring your system and machine power reliability.

SPDs with effective power surge protection
Market leading power supplies for superior system availability
Device Circuit Breakers protect system devices from fault current

True power reliability is putting together the technologically leading products, with specialized, well-coordinated features and meeting customer application needs in 4 main key different aspects.

Continuous Power – Market leading power supplies solutions to safeguard control system with seamless operation. Examples include AC & DC Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), battery-less UPS, and redundancy power.

DC & AC Uninterruptible Power Supplies / Redundancy Power Supplies

Robust Protection – The power solution works reliably in harsh operating environments. For example, during electrical power surges & over-currents, mechanical shocks, vibrations, extreme climatic temperatures and dusty operating conditions.

Power SPDs / IP67 Power Supplies / Device Circuit Breakers

Energy Efficient – Reliable products featured with high MTBF, long lifetime expectancy, energy savings and are environmentally friendly.

UNO TRIO QUINT POWER / Battery-less UPS – Maintenance free

Intelligent Monitoring – Market-leading innovative products, enabling the smart connected power solution with preventive, predictive info.

Surge Monitoring-Impulsecheck / UPS – Intelligent IQ / Device Circuit Breaker (IO-link)

We aim and strive to help our customers to embrace the ‘new normal’ for their systems, and ensure their machines’ maximum availability.

Contact us now. Your trusted partner for reliable power.

The Future of Smart Buildings

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For many years, building management systems (BMS) have been installed to control and monitor a portion of the building services. These systems, which tend to be expensive, are mostly used in large buildings, especially in the commercial and industrial sectors.

While offering much functionality, they have limitations in their use such as:

  1. Complex installation and configuration processes
  2. Systems are often closed and with limited evolutivity (due to their complexity)
  3. Systems are designed for operators only and not originally designed to provide services to building occupants

Smart buildings offer diversities and allow us to foresee an ultra-connected future; the challenge is to allow integration and interaction with the latest proposed solutions, in order to jointly offer a new user experience.

Phoenix Contact’s answer to the digitalization of building technology

Our IoT-based framework enables the integration of standard communication paths as well as new IP-based protocols. Thanks to open interfaces, existing systems can simply be integrated in the building management system.

The depth of the data ensures that your building projects have an intelligent and needs-based structure that is easy to expand. This applies to heating/ventilation/air conditioning, room and media systems, as well as the security concepts.

Phoenix Contact offers a broad product portfolio, ranging from easy installation to intelligent building automation. From cabling through to surge protection and the intelligent use of data in the building management system, we have intelligent products and solutions for your multi-site premises.

Controller for building infrastructure

The IoT-based ILC 2050 BI controller enables easy connection to standard as well as IP-based field devices. The data points of the technical building equipment captured and standardized at field level are defined once, and are then available to the entire system.

EMpro energy measuring devices

Our range of products for energy and performance measurements can be used to convert, record, measure, and monitor the energy parameters of your technical building equipment. The recorded consumption values provide a basis to increase the energy efficiency of your building.

Measurement and control technology

Isolate, convert, and filter signals, and monitor and control processes in the building: our measurement and control technology components cover all the tasks required for interference-free signal transmission from sensor level to control level.

Industrial communication technology

Regardless of which medium is used for the communication or that needs to be installed, we offer you the relevant solution with copper, fibre optic and wireless products.

STEP POWER power supplies for installation distributors

Use our power supplies and UPS to guarantee the highest availability of your processes. STEP POWER power supplies have been specifically developed for the building automation. They fit into installation distributors as well as flat control panels, and offer maximum energy efficiency.

Surge protection

From the incoming supply to the end device, from the data cable to the photovoltaic system – protect your devices and installations with surge protection from Phoenix Contact.

Phoenix Contact – your partner for leading edge building technology.

Phoenix Contact PLC Interface Relay

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Phoenix Contact PLC Interface Relay is one of the most, if not the most widely used slim type relay in the market. This can be attributed to the fact that Phoenix Contact is the pioneer of this slim relay and it addresses the requirements of the industry. Besides that, there are numerous features that this range of relay has that differentiate Phoenix Contact from similar competitors.

  • The relay is fully made in Germany. On top of that, the production process is fully automated by machines in an environment with tight quality control. This ensures consistency, precision and high quality.
  • The relay’s internal circuitry is made from a single lead frame. This means that there is no soldering and therefore, no single or odd weak point of potential failure. Consistency is also guaranteed as soldering is mostly done by humans and thus will be susceptible to quality control issues.
  • Furthermore, the single lead frame technology has better heat dissipation and distribution technology over competitor’s product that uses PCB technology. This is because PCB technology tends to have concentrated heat spots that will weaken the relay over time. Phoenix Contact’s design allows for lower overall panel temperature for the end user.
  • The relay is fully encapsulated and certified RT III grade and water and bath tested. This ensures that the relay will survive and operate even after exposure to water and high moisture and humidity. There are other brands in the market that does not have such degree of protection in the relay.
  • The quality used for our components are also rated above the industry standards. Phoenix contact use diodes that are rated at 1300V compared to the 1000V that is typically used by others. This will ensure even higher threshold to withstand unexpected incoming surge.
  • On top of these advantages, the Phoenix Contact PLC Interface relay is also versatile as it can be transformed into a PLC with integrated relay by adding a module called PLC Logic. This solution can be used for applications that require simple automation.

  • The PLC Interface relay can also be used as a system cabling solution that will benefit users in terms of reducing manpower installation time and also reduces space required in the electrical panel. This can be achieved by plugging in a system cabling adapter on the PLC Interface Relay.

Interested to find out more? Get in touch with us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

IO Link

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Have you ever encountered the following situations?

  • Machine stops suddenly due to contaminated sensor/actuator
  • Stopping the machine in order to change to another color detection (or other parameters) on the sensor
  • Stopping the machine when replacing a faulty sensor in order to set the parameter of the new sensor

What if you can…

  • Re-parameterize the sensor without shutting the machine down
  • Replace a new sensor with the previous parameters automatically downloaded without shutting the machine down

The above is made possible due to the IO Link technology. IO Link is a standardized IO-technology (based on IEC 61131-9) focusing the communication between field devices and sensors & actuators. This enables the exchange of both process data and service data between the connection and sensor/actuator. With the IO Link technology, devices can now identify and configure themselves automatically. This will enable an easy replacement of defective components and reduces downtime significantly.

An IO-Link system consists of the following basic components:

  • IO-Link master
  • IO-Link devices
  • Standard 3-wire sensor cable/actuator cable

Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive IP20 and IP67 portfolio of IO-Link masters, IO-Link devices, cabling, and software.

If you need further consultation on your next IO-Link application, please do not hesitate to drop us an email at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

Mini Analog Pro Signal Duplicator

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Do you have applications where you need to feed 4-20mA current from a transmitter to both DCS input and a digital display indicator? If yes, then most likely you will need a signal duplicator (current splitter). The module splits the current from 1 input 4-20mA to 2 output current.

While it is true that current is flowing with the same value if we put load in series, but one must observe the total load resistance in 1 loop. This includes if we draw long cables from transmitter to DCS and digital display. There is a maximum resistance value that a transmitter can be connected with. This is why we still need a signal duplicator module.

Phoenix Contact Mini Analog Pro Signal Duplicator has an output load resistance of maximum 500 Ohms per channel which is sufficient for most applications. Moreover, it has a Repeater Power Supply function, which means this module can be used for a 2 wire or 4 wire transmitter. It is also HART transparent if you are using SMART Device.

Another interesting feature is the module has NFC ready, this means huge benefits for users to set the module behavior. In the past, we need to rely on datasheets and then do manual setting via dip switch. This is no longer needed, just pick up your Phone and put it near to the module, then all the setting can be done via Apps.

Want to find out more? Feel free to contact us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

Timer Relays by Phoenix Contact

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Phoenix Contact is one of the very few solution providers that can fulfill almost all the critical components in the electrical panel. To attest to that, Phoenix Contact offers a wide range of Timer Relays with different features and specifications.

The ultra-narrow range of timer relays from Phoenix Contact offers the slimmest form factor in the industry. This range borrows the design from our tried and tested PLC Interface Relay which is the most established slim type relay in the market. The housing of this timer relay is 6.2mm, making it a true space saver in the industry where space is an ever increasing premium. The space savings can amount to 70% compared to conventional designs. The time can also be seen clearly at the front of the timer relay and can also be easily set on the thumbwheel. Better still; the thumbwheel is illuminated, making it easy to adjust without making mistakes. On top of this, it has Push-In technology as the choice of connection, making it popular for applications installed in an environment with vibrations which can cause screw connections to be loosened. The range of module includes: switch-on delay (voltage controlled), switch-on delay with control contact, switch-off delay with control contact and flashing function beginning with pulse. The time range is available from 0.1s to as long as 300 minutes.

The other range of timer relays from Phoenix Contact is the multifunctional ETD time relays. These timer relays are just 22.5mm, making them comparatively thin for a multifunctional type of timer relay. The range includes one adjustable time to two adjustable times as well as adjustable pulse and pause times. Functions include switch-mode beginning with pause or pulse, flashing, switched on delay with control contact and voltage controller, passing makes contact and many more.  Adjustable time range from as low as 50ms to 100hours. It is also suitable for worldwide use thanks to the power supply range of 24 to 240 VAC and VDC.

Besides that, Phoenix Contact has a BL series multifunctional timer relay which is more compact at 17.5mm. This model is suitable for more basic applications that are more cost effective with one floating changeover contact as compared to 2 for the multifunctional relay. It has a time range of 50ms to 1hr.

Last but not least, Phoenix Contact offers a timer relay that can be integrated into the RIFLINE series relay. With this innovative design, customer can have a solution with more than 2PDT requirement. In fact, this timer module can be installed in all RIF1 up to RIF4 relay series. The functions include switch-on delay, with passing makes contact and pulse generator. Time ranges from 0.5 seconds to 100 minutes.

Want to find out more? Feel free to contact us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

Mini Analog Pro – the Innovative Signal Conditioner

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The Mini Analog Pro is the latest and most innovative signal conditioner from Phoenix Contact. It replaces the proven Mini Analog series but with a slew of additional features that will benefit the user and the industry.

The most advanced feature over its predecessor and perhaps other makers is the introduction of communication adapter. By using the adapter, the user can replace all its hardwire connection to the the analogue cards of the controller with just a simple communication cable. No more overwhelming hardwire from each analog point to each and every signal conditioner. The protocols supported are Modbus TCP and RTU, Ethernet IP and Profibus with more to come in the near future. Besides saving cost, this can save space in the panel as there is no more need for analogue cards. Furthermore, there is also a backbone power supply accesory called the TBUS where one can power up just one of the signal conditioners and all the connecting units in the same row will be powered up. No more overwhelming power supply cables to each individual signal conditioner.

Mini Analog Pro offers additional configuration options compared to most, if not all, of the other signal conditioners in the market, which can only be configured with the laptop or dip switch setting which requires the accompanying data sheet for reference. More frequently than not, engineers are met with situations where it is inconvenient to bring the laptop to site, or worse, unable to find the configuration cable when you need it. If one is not using Mini Analog Pro, this will means one has to delay the work, thus affecting productivity. With the latest Mini Analog Pro, one can use a smartphone with NFC technology to perform the configuration. The software is easy to use and can be  pre-downloaded from the Google PlayStore in preparation for sites where internet connection is not available.

There are times when one has to measure the current values of  field devices that are in operation for verification or troubleshooting. With the previous version or with signal conditioners from other makers, one would have to disconnect the cables in order to prevent parallel connections that will affect the actual reading. This adds extra work  and effort. The user can now measure the current directly without removing the cables. This is realized technically with the Mini Analog Pro by integrating a diode into the circuit and therefore, parallel measurement is now possible with great accuracy.

Even when one has to absolutely remove the cables due to safety or space issues, the Mini Analog Pro offers an innovative alternative. Each module comes with 4 connection blocks for respective input, output or power supply connections. The connection blocks can be removed easily by using a screwdriver to twist the orange lever above or just by pulling it with moderate force. In this way, the connections are still in the individual blocks and can be reconnected back easily without any need to screw each of the individual cables again. Mistakes can also be avoided because all four of the connection blocks in the signal conditioners are fail safes. Only the right connection blocks can be fitted in its rightful place. Imagine if one does not have this feature and if all cables are disconnected, one would have to check and screw all of them back accordingly.

The Mini Analog Pro also has much improved signal quality due to the highest level of galvanic isolation. This increases the accuracy, making it more suitable for the increasingly demanding industry requirements. Furthermore, it has been subjected to 3kV test voltage and 300 V rated insulation voltage. This test ensures that the isolation properties are tried and tested before being deployed in the field. The temperature range it can operate in has also been extended. It can now perform perfectly within the range of 40C° to 70C°. This allows reliable operation in harsh environment.

These innovative features make the Mini Analog Pro one of the most advanced signal conditioners in the market now. These features not only make it easier for the user to work, but also increases the safety, performance and the overall project cost savings.

Termitrab Complete – The Narrowest Surge Protection

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The latest surge protection, Termitrab Complete (TTC) for MCR offers a peace of mind for users. With the TTC, you can reliably protect your signals against surge voltages from the field to the controller.

The TTC product range is a tailored product range for almost all applications in measurement and control technology. Depending on the type of signal to be protected, with TTC, you will find an ideally suited circuit version in the portfolio.

The areas of application for TTC are so diverse that they can be used in any industry. Thanks to the narrow overall width, starting at 3.5mm, the product range is ideal for process technology, as very often, a high density is required in the distribution cabinets. They protect up to 572 signals in one meter, which mean more products can be installed in the cabinets. The number of cabinets can be reduced so as to save cost. The various approvals permit use in onshore and offshore applications. The TTC portfolio offers the widest range of features and therefore an optimum selection of products for your applications.

The narrowest surge protection

Starting from an overall width of 3.5mm, Termitrab Complete is the world’s first surge protection solution for measurement and control technology.

Remote Signaling

You can decide if and when you require the remote signalling modules that are available. Up to 40 protective devices are visually monitored with the optional remote signalling modules.

To monitor retrospectively, you can easily align remote signalling modules to protective devices that are already installed.

If a protective element is disconnected in the event of surge voltages, the disconnected device closes the monitoring channel and group remote signalling is triggered. The overloaded device is displayed on site by the status indicator (in the picture highlighted in red). This is purely mechanical, without consuming energy from the signal lines.

Pluggability

For repeated tests, remove the surge element connector from the base of the multi-piece protective device without impedance. The signals are not interrupted and the controllers do not immediately detect an impedance change in the measuring circuit.

Testing and documentation takes place in the CHECKMASTER 2. If a replacement is required, the affected surge element connector can be replaced without accessing the installation.

Innovative knife disconnection

The integrated two knife disconnection enables the signal path to be broken so as to carry out isolation measurements. An open signal path is easy to detect from the projecting function screws. The screws are equipped with overwind protection.

Versatile

Certain applications require special tests and approvals. TTC meets the requirements of Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Furthermore, versions with ATEX, IEC Ex and GL approvals are available as well.

If you would like more information about Termitrab Complete, feel free to contact us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!