Software-defined Automation (SDA) is a new approach to industrial automation that uses software to control, manage and optimize automation processes instead of the traditional “hardware-first” approach to automation.

The benefits of network connectivity, such as increased productivity and flexibility, are obvious. But unfortunately, this also creates more and more potential attack targets for all kinds of cyber attacks. Cybercriminals repeatedly manage to exploit new vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access to machines and facilities, for example. That is why governments are introducing new (additional) cyber security legislation. In doing so, they set ambitious goals.

Electrification gives energy. This also applies to production sites and industrial environments. The factory of the future requires energy-efficient solutions. An example of such a solution is ABB's Ekip UP: a plug-and-play unit to upgrade and digitise low-voltage plant.

The industrial automation landscape is changing and is increasingly driven by data and connectivity. With this, Cyber Security is also becoming increasingly important, both because we want it ourselves and because the government is calling us to do so. Indeed, the upcoming European directive on network and information security also imposes obligations on normal commercial and industrial companies.

Phoenix Contact's new Gigabit Security routers combine proven mGuard security technology with new high-performance hardware. Our Security-Routers are deployed to protect industrial networks from unauthorized access or malware intrusion. The new Security-Routers have an increased data throughput of nearly 1000 Mbit/s creating a high level of security without speed limitations.

Advances in technology are changing the way almost every industry operates. To remain competitive in the market, manufacturers are constantly looking for the latest and greatest innovations, strategies and systems. The increasing demand for IoT solutions like accessible information at all levels, predictive and preventive maintenance, mobile and cloud solutions, security, seamless integration, plug & play etc. are often expensive and complex.

The SPLC 1000 was developed as a dedicated safety controller mainly used in a distributed safety system. The new module uses the black channel principle to communicate with other Profisafe devices. This safety controller can be seamlessly integrated into the PLCnext-Technology open ecosystem.

Machine and plant manufacturers that export their products to North America or wish to put them into circulation within their area of applicability are subject to the laws and regulations applicable there. One of the most important industry-specific standards in addition to the NEC is NFPA 79. NFPA 79 is revised every three years in line with the NEC and adopts its innovations.

In the world of manufacturing industry there is a lot of talk about digitalisation and Industry 4.0. Meanwhile, the changes are already clearly noticeable in our daily lives. We are increasingly seeing personalised or customized consumer products, and it is proving relatively easy to get the network from production, through the right logistics channels, all the way to the end consumer.

The proven CPX platform has been extended with the CPX-HART analogue module! This analogue module features four channels that can be set as inputs or outputs as required. This makes it possible to combine the advantages of analogue and digital technology in terms of robustness, configurability and fault diagnosis. In addition, a device driver is available with which the CPX remote I/O can be connected to the PROFIBUS and PROFINET fieldbuses.

The CPX-AP-I remote I/O system from Festo is designed to easily integrate various I/O modules and \(even existing\) valve terminals with the most important PLC systems via the most common field buses. As a result, fewer components require a fieldbus module.

Optimal production performance is within reach of manufacturers thanks to the improved operational productivity that the integration of IO-Link into a full system provides. Using the open and standardized communication system, manufacturers can enjoy proven benefits such as fast installation, remote system monitoring capability, simplified maintenance planning, reduced downtime and real-time access to accurate data.

The new I/O system in IP65/IP67 enables powerful I/O modules and existing valve terminal interfaces to be integrated in the most important host systems. Based on the innovative AP system communication from Festo, CPX-AP-I ensures continuous communication from the workpiece to the cloud – tailored to your needs!

The SDAS-MHS serves simultaneously as an IO-Link® position transmitter in proximity sensor size and as a proximity sensor with two programmable switching points. With this dual function, the SDAS-MHS solves space problems for tricky application requirements.

The SIMATIC RTU3041C extends the compact low power RTU3000C family by a device with LTE-M and NB-IoT mobile wireless connection as well as GPS functionality. The SIMATIC RTU3041C and the firmware V4.0 for RTU3000C are hereby released for sale. The start of delivery is scheduled for the end of February 2020.

PacDrive 3 is based upon proven logic motion technology, which unifies PLC, motion, and robotics control functionality on a single hardware platform. With its centralised system architecture, PacDrive is the ideal solution for controlling a broad range of servo-driven production and packaging machines, as well as material handling equipment and robotics, using fully integrated, IEC 61131-3-compliant program structures. More than 80.000 machines worldwide are controlled by PacDrive to this day.

Conventional reflective photoelectric sensors have issues that may limit their range of application, such as short sensing distances, possible false detection due to the effect of workpiece colors, and large size.

TeSys™ island is a digital load management solution that makes machines smarter and more reliable. It is a fully digitized, object-oriented load management system and an Industry 4.0 compliant data provider. It reduces machines’ time to market enabling OEMs to move forward in their Industry 4.0 journey. TeSys island gives users easy & remote access to predictive & preventive application data, leading to early diagnostics & maintenance.

SENTRON 3KD load switches and 3KF fuse switch disconnectors provide reliable personal safety and ensure a high level of system availability in industry, infrastructure and buildings.

With the new TIA Portal V16, Totally Integrated Automation Portal, Siemens has expanded its engineering framework with practical new functions for various phases from planning, to engineering, to commissioning. The innovations concentrate on the continuous integration of the development process. These include standardization, integrated engineering spread across teams and an integrated function test.

The new AX and KX are embedded within digital processes, making for simpler, faster assembly and component installation, greater flexibility and enhanced safety. Rittal has therefore rethought and redesigned this offering in line with the imperatives of Industry 4.0. Digital transformation brings new challenges in terms of the product itself, its operating environment and its availability.

Experience the start of a new chapter in the world of standard power supplies with the SITOP PSU6200 all-around power supply. Whether you’re a builder or operator of control panels, machines, or plants, all users benefit from the ingenious functions and features of the new SITOP PSU6200 product line – throughout the entire lifecycle, from planning and engineering to installation and operation.

Servo drives and servo motors from 0.15 to 11 kW Part of Lexium The Lexium 32 range of servo drives includes four servo drive models with power ratings from 0.15 to 11 kW and the servo motor ranges BMH and BSH series

Plants, products, and systems are becoming increasingly networked. This has resulted in a major effort to set machine-to-machine: M2M, communication standards. In recent years, one such standard has already established itself on the market: OPC UA.

With our expanded line of distance sensors, you can choose from a large selection of different designs with especially large operating ranges and multiple switching points.