New B&R compact controller with integrated switch

B&R’s latest addition to its Compact-S series is a compact controller with an integrated switch. With an integrated switch, it enables daisy-chain cabling between network stations.

At a width of only 37.5 mm including the power supply, the X20CP0420 is extremely compact. The controller achieves cycle times down to 4 ms and is equipped with 128 MB RAM and 256 MB internal flash memory. With Ethernet, USB and RS232, the controller offers plenty of communication options. An optional CAN bus interface is also available. With no fans or batteries, the compact controller is also maintenance free.

X20 I/O modules can be connected directly to the controller and line up seamlessly. The entire system saves a large amount of space in the control cabinet. Even with its narrow dimensions, the controller has a built-in power supply for itself and the connected I/O modules. There is no need for a separate power supply module.

B&R expands its library of HMI widgets

The new Skyline widget from B&R’s mapp View HMI software package displays a clear overview of extensive manufacturing systems. The widget can also be linked to an alarm system. With important information about their machines available at a glance, plant operators are able to react promptly to error messages. This prevents downtime and increases the productivity of the plant. The interactive HMI element is suitable for modular machines and plants in any industry. The developer simply drags the widget into place on the HMI screen and configures it as needed. They can choose pictures to represent the various parts of the machine and adjust their sizes. The Skyline widget can be configured at runtime, making it exceptionally fast and flexible to use.

For an improved overview of particularly complex plants, multiple instances of a given machine can be grouped together. The widget can also be configured to display important statistical information or the current status when a component is selected. The operator is able to react quickly to any errors that occur on the machine and resolve the situation before it results in extended downtime.

B&R is an innovative automation company with headquarters in Austria and offices all around the world. On July 6, 2017, B&R became a business unit of the ABB Group. As a global leader in industrial automation, B&R combines state-of-the-art technology with advanced engineering to provide customers in virtually every industry with complete solutions for machine and factory automation, motion control, HMI and integrated safety technology. With Industrial IoT communication standards like OPC UA, POWERLINK and openSAFETY as well as the powerful Automation Studio software development environment, B&R is constantly redefining the future of automation engineering. The innovative spirit that keeps B&R at the forefront of industrial automation is driven by a commitment to simplifying processes and exceeding customer expectations.