Weidmüller’s IP65-rated front panel interface builds on standards

As far as programmable logic controllers (PLC) are concerned, the trend in the next few years will be towards solutions with more powerful industrial PCs (IPC) and Soft PLC. The influence of the IT world on automation engineering is equally encouraging the use of input and output devices originating from the office world. In this case, access to the PC is gained via standardised interfaces such as Ethernet (RJ45) and USB in order to programme and configure the installation. However, IPC interfaces are contained in the interior of the electrical cabinet – meaning the user always has to open the cabinet door first before carrying out service tasks. Together with its customers, Weidmüller has now developed an amazingly simple and practical solution that enables access to devices inside the electrical cabinet – without having to open the door. FrontCom^® – the front panel interface. Until now, devices needed to be accessed on the inside of the electrical cabinet – generally a cumbersome and not entirely risk-free undertaking. Not with FrontCom^®: in a manner of speaking, the front panel interface functions as a service flap; all common interfaces can easily be accessed from the outside. A variable level of safety management can be implemented to deny access to unauthorised personnel.

 

Designed to meet protection rating IP65, Weidmüller’s front panel interface is available with a securely closable or lockable cover. That increases safety levels as required and denies access to unauthorised personnel. Added to that, FrontCom^®  is designed for efficiency and openness. It allows commissioning, servicing and monitoring tasks as well as system extensions to be achieved more quickly, more simply and more selectively. And thanks to different adapters, FrontCom^® is open for diverse interfaces with the result it can be utilised for various applications.

 

FrontCom^® builds on standards for the interfaces and provides trouble-free connection of devices on the inside of the electrical cabinet with decentralized peripheral devices on the outside. To achieve this FrontCom^® fulfils modular design principles. Different adapter plates support conversion and upgrade versatility. Weidmüller offers the an adapter (AR Data) with the following interfaces: USB, RJ 45, 9-pole Sub-D, 25-pole Sub-D. It also offers a 230-V socket outlet adapter (AR Plug) as well as a universal adapter (AR) without cut-outs to facilitate individual solutions in the field. The modular design eases the strain on financial recourses and is future-proof to boot.

 

The adapter (AR Data) has a hollow shape by design. This construction protects the connectors from the connecting cables – even when the cover is open.

 

The USB port is predestined to be the interface used when storing extensive amounts of data or when performing software updates. Today, up to four gigabytes of data can be read in and out via the USB Memory Stick. The USB Memory Stick can be utilised when the front panel interface is closed – safe against manipulation and theft-proof.

 

Appealing to the eye, all of the various FrontCom^® versions have been designed for use in industry (IP65). The FrontCom^® with securely closable or lockable housing (GH Key, KH Knob) and the adapter AR Data are made from a robust plastic (PPE) and are grey in colour (RAL 7004) – meaning their contents cannot be seen from the outside. They conform to flammability class VO in accordance with UL 94, which means that burning material does not drip. In addition, the securely closable and lockable covers are resistant to UV radiation, oil and fuel. The size of the housing cut-out corresponds to HA48 and is thus suitable for heavy duty connectors. The adapter frame for the supply interface 230-V Schuko is made of stainless steel. The universal plate without cut-out is made from aluminium and provides the customer with the option of creating individual solutions in the field.

 

All front panel interface adapters can be quickly and easily fitted. The inserts are clamped between the wall of the cabinet and the housing, with the whole unit requiring just four fixing screws for a secure fitting.

 

The front panel interfaces GH Key and GH Knob are included in the range of supply along with the cover, frame, seals, fixing materials, marking tags, package insert and two keys or interlock. The front panel interface adapter AR Data contains the housing, USB interface, RJ45 coupling, 9-pole Sub-D, 25-pole Sub-D, marking tags and package insert.