PROSOFT AN-X2-AB-DHRIO

Description

1. Product Introduction

The PROSOFT AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO is a high – performance communication gateway meticulously engineered by ProSoft Technology, a trusted partner of Allen – Bradley. This innovative module is designed to address the pressing need for seamless communication between modern Ethernet/IP networks and legacy Allen – Bradley Remote I/O (RIO) or Data Highway Plus (DH+) systems.

In the dynamic landscape of industrial automation, where companies often have a mix of new and old equipment, the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO acts as a crucial link. It enables industrial facilities to leverage the power of advanced programmable automation controllers (PACs), such as Allen – Bradley’s ControlLogix and CompactLogix, while still maintaining connectivity with existing RIO – based PLCs, HMIs, drives, and Flex I/O adapters. This not only maximizes the value of legacy investments but also paves the way for a phased migration to more advanced control systems.

2. Functional Features

2.1 Versatile Protocol Bridging

The AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO stands out for its ability to bridge multiple communication protocols. It can seamlessly translate between Ethernet/IP and DH+ protocols, acting as a vital intermediary in industrial networks. For example, in a manufacturing plant with a combination of new Ethernet/IP – enabled control systems and older DH+ – based equipment, this gateway allows for data exchange between the two. This eliminates the need for complex and costly custom – built solutions to integrate different generations of technology, streamlining the overall network architecture.

2.2 Remote I/O Scanner Functionality

One of its key functions is as a remote I/O scanner. This mode empowers users to replace their existing remote I/O PLCs with state – of – the – art ControlLogix or CompactLogix PACs without the hassle of replacing the existing I/O racks. This is a significant advantage in terms of cost – effectiveness and minimizing downtime. For instance, in a large – scale production facility, upgrading the PLCs while retaining the I/O infrastructure can save substantial resources. The AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO supports up to 32 racks of remote I/O, accommodating a wide range of industrial applications. It also recognizes all remote I/O baud rates, from 57.6 k baud to 230.4 k baud, and supports octal addressing from 0 to 76, ensuring compatibility with diverse legacy systems.

2.3 Drive and HMI Upgrades

The gateway also plays a crucial role in upgrading legacy Allen – Bradley drives on remote I/O to new Ethernet/IP – enabled drives. It can support up to 4 such drives and is configurable with 1/4, 1/2, and full – rack addressing, making it adaptable to different drive setups. Additionally, it enables the upgrade of legacy PanelViews on remote I/O or DH+ to more advanced models like the PanelView Plus, PanelView Plus 6, or PanelView Plus 7 on Ethernet/IP. It can support up to 8 PanelViews on the same network, facilitating a more modern and user – friendly interface for operators.

2.4 Built – in Web Server

The AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO features a built – in web server, which is a powerful tool for users. Through a web browser, operators can access diagnostic data, view and modify the module’s configuration, upload configuration files, and set the operation mode. This remote monitoring and configuration capability is especially useful in large industrial plants where the gateway may be located in hard – to – access areas. Maintenance personnel can perform necessary tasks without the need for physical access to the device, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing maintenance time.

2.5 Auto – configuration Utility

To simplify the setup process, the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO comes equipped with an auto – configuration utility. This utility automatically detects the baud rate of the connected devices and maps discrete I/O, significantly reducing the chances of configuration errors. In complex industrial networks with numerous devices, this feature saves time and effort during the installation and commissioning phases, ensuring a smooth start – up of the communication system.

PROSOFT AN-X2-AB-DHRIO

3. Technical Specifications

PROSOFT AN-X2-AB-DHRIO

4. Application Scenarios

4.1 Industrial Automation Upgrades

In industrial automation, the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO is widely used for system upgrades. Consider a food and beverage factory that has been using an old – fashioned remote I/O – based PLC system for decades. With the need to modernize and improve production efficiency, they can use the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO to connect their existing I/O racks to a new ControlLogix PAC. This allows them to take advantage of the advanced control capabilities of the ControlLogix while reusing their reliable I/O infrastructure, minimizing both cost and downtime during the upgrade process.

4.2 Data Integration in Complex Networks

In large – scale industrial plants with complex networks, the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO enables seamless data integration. For example, in an oil refinery, there may be a combination of DH+ – based legacy systems for monitoring and controlling certain processes and new Ethernet/IP – based systems for overall plant management. The AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO can bridge these two networks, ensuring that data from various sensors and actuators across the refinery can be collected, analyzed, and used for optimized control, leading to improved operational efficiency and safety.

4.3 Legacy System Modernization

For companies looking to modernize their legacy systems, the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO is an ideal solution. A textile mill with aging HMI systems and drives can use this gateway to upgrade to more advanced, Ethernet/IP – enabled versions. By doing so, they can enhance the user experience for operators, improve drive performance, and integrate these components more effectively into a modern control network, all while maintaining compatibility with their existing industrial infrastructure.

5. Installation, Commissioning, and Maintenance

5.1 Installation

Before installation, ensure that the power to all connected systems is turned off to prevent electrical hazards. Wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wristband to protect the gateway from static electricity damage. Locate a suitable mounting location for the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO, preferably in an area with proper ventilation and away from sources of electromagnetic interference. Connect the Ethernet cable to the RJ45 port of the gateway for Ethernet/IP communication. If using the DH+ or remote I/O functionality, connect the appropriate network cables to the Phoenix 3 – pin network connector. Connect the power cable to the Phoenix 3 – pin power connector, ensuring that the correct voltage is supplied (either 12 VDC or 24 VDC as specified).

5.2 Commissioning

After installation, power on the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO. Open a web browser and enter the default IP address of the gateway (usually provided in the user manual) to access the built – in web server. From the web interface, configure the network settings, such as the IP address for Ethernet/IP, select the appropriate communication protocol (Ethernet/IP, DH+, or remote I/O), and set up the necessary parameters for device addressing and baud rates. Use the auto – configuration utility to quickly detect and map the connected devices. Test the communication by sending test data between the Ethernet/IP – based system and the legacy DH+ or remote I/O devices. Check for any error messages or status indicators on the web interface. If there are issues, review the configuration settings and ensure that all connections are secure.

5.3 Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for the reliable operation of the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO. Periodically inspect the physical condition of the gateway, looking for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the casing or loose connectors. Check the network connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Monitor the gateway’s performance using the web – based diagnostic tools. If there are communication issues, review the data transfer logs and network settings. Update the gateway’s firmware as recommended by ProSoft Technology to ensure compatibility with the latest devices and to benefit from any bug fixes or performance improvements. Keep a spare AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO in a suitable storage environment, protected from extreme temperatures and humidity, for quick replacement in case of device failure.

6. Service and Warranty

ProSoft Technology offers a standard 1 – year warranty for the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO, covering defects in materials and workmanship. In the event of a defective gateway within the warranty period, ProSoft will repair or replace the device free of charge. For customers who require additional support, ProSoft provides comprehensive technical support services. Their team of experts can assist with installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of the gateway in industrial applications. They also offer a range of training resources, including detailed user manuals, application notes, and online tutorials, to help customers make the most of the gateway’s features. For out – of – warranty repairs, ProSoft has a reliable repair service that can diagnose and fix issues with the AN – X2 – AB – DHRIO, providing customers with a cost – effective solution to keep their industrial communication systems running smoothly.