At APPEX 2024, SMC will unveil the EXW1 Compact Type wireless system its compact and lightweight wireless communication module for use on a robot or moving fixture.
“APPEX 2024 is the ideal platform to showcase the latest edition to our wireless portfolio,” comments Jozef Ceh, group manager ANZ for Integrated Solutions at SMC. “This comes as the first new addition since the modular EX600-W (Wireless), which has enjoyed resounding success in the local market.”
“Advancements in wireless technologies by SMC means that the EXW1 now offers around 86 per cent volume reduction and 87 per cent weight reduction.”
The IP67-rated EXW1 series makes use of 2.4 GHz ISM frequency band and offers frequency hopping every 2 milliseconds. It supports a faster wireless communication of up to 1Mbps and an external antenna allows for easy installation within metal shielded locations and locations with an obstructed line of sight.
“Introducing wireless communications eliminates the high costs associated with traditional network infrastructure and the cumbersome commissioning process,” says Ceh.
“Other than the immediate efficiencies gained through the physical layer, the functional upside is a wireless ecosystem that is future-proof, easy to expand and no additional IP addresses are required.
“The EXW1 Wireless Base Modules is compatible with CC-Link and EtherCAT protocols and the EtherNET IP Wireless Base is not far from release. The series offers a reach of 100 meters (when used with a remote unit) and is also compatible with the EX600-W (Wireless).”
Ceh does believe that while the additional upgrades to the new EXW1 Compact Modules are welcomed, the brand-new Remote Wireless IO-LINK Master Remote module will certainly redefine connectivity moving forward.
“It integrates all the standard features and benefits of IO-Link into a wireless network, while offering both Class A and Class B port specification - making this product a game changer,” he says.
The base unit is connected to a standard industrial Ethernet connection such as Ethernet/IP or PROFINET. The base can wirelessly communicate and control up to 127 remote units in a range of up to 10 meters.
And Ceh says that the new-generation Air Management System (AMS) is the perfect accompaniment to a wireless fieldbus system.
“This series monitors when production stops and automatically decreases the pressure - reducing power consumption. It’s compatible with our wireless systems fieldbus systems and comes standard with one IO-Link master port on all AMS modules,” Ceh explains.
Ceh says that in today’s modern manufacturing era, incorporating wireless technologies just makes sense.
“Wireless offers a simple and elegant solution. Where possible, look to replace legacy systems with wireless alternatives to save you on time and costs in the long run,” he concludes.
Visit SMC at Stand E121. APPEX is taking place on 12-15 March at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Free registration is open now.
