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New Product: MKS offers improved process control parameters with new CONTINUUM gateway
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Product Briefing Outline: MKS Instruments has
introduced the ‘CONTINUUM' Universal Industrial Network Gateway with
‘cLogic' and the ‘MacroNode' I/O Controller with EtherCAT interface.
These new solutions offer more precise process control through faster
network performance and improved web browser diagnostics, according to
the company.Problem: The continued demand for process tool data and diagnostic capabilities to ensure higher levels of process and yield control for wafer processing tools have led to the need for simpler configuration and faster integration while providing faster access to data in a highly secure environment.
Solution: The MKS CONTINUUM is designed to quickly connect any serial device to Fieldbus and industrial Ethernet protocols, and includes cLogic technology that enables users to implement custom data translation. The MacroNode I/O now supports EtherCAT, an open real-time network, as well as Modbus/ TCPTM, Ethernet/IPTM, and DeviceNet. Its cLogic technology provides simple and rapid integration with components having proprietary communications protocols. The CONTINUUM's web-browser interface simplifies initial configuration, and provides e-diagnostic access and fast debug from remote locations. Its DIN Rail and surface mount options are designed to offer flexible installation with existing equipment and enclosures, according to the company. The MacroNode I/O with new EtherCAT features sub-msec I/O control for improving process consistency, cLogic distributed real-time logic engine, and up to 96 I/O points over four slots in a compact and economical package. Each I/O card is digital, analog or a combination of the two, and built-in web servers provide graphical user interfaces for setup and diagnostics. The MacroNode I/O product line provides high density, compact and economical I/O solutions with on-board cLogic control to handle distribution of real-time logic tasks, the company claims.
Applications: The CONTINUUM network gateway enables communication between RS232 / RS485 devices and control components with DeviceNet or Modbus/TCP, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT and ProfiNet
Platform: The CONTINUUM Universal Industrial Network Gateway comes with cLogic and the MacroNode I/O Controller with EtherCAT interface.
Availability: June 2007 onwards.