Digital MTConnect Interface for Controllers — Digital and Independent

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Wago PFC100 Controllers Now Include MTConnect

Many machines are not designed for a direct connection to MTConnect adapters and agents. Therefore, Wago has developed a digital interface for its PFC100 controller that enables a seamless transformation into a digital manufacturing area. This comprehensive digital interface commands an industrial PFC100 input system, in which MTConnect adapters and agents are already integrated.

Physically, it appears in the form of an SD card, which is simply inserted into the slot provided for it on the PFC100. No programming is required. Machine data, like signal columns, energy consumption, motor speeds, or the like, can be called up easily.

The inputs are configured via the web browser and are analyzed in real time. A software application, which can convert the data into comprehensible diagrams or tables, is the sole additional requirement. Based on the visualized data, companies can monitor, track, and evaluate the total efficiency of their manufacturing area, and ultimately improve their economic results.

MTConnect is purely a read-only standard. This means that information is collected and transported to a control level where it is evaluated. However, the control level does not send any information to individual machines. Unlike OPC UA, MTConnect does not satisfy any defined IT security regulations. This offers both advantages and also negative aspects. However, by using the PFC100 controller, the gaps can be easily and securely closed, because the controller already encrypts all data from the production area and transports it to the control level via a secure OpenVPN or IPsec connection.

Thus, the MTConnect Standard and a digital interface for the Wago PFC100 provide an interesting solution for companies that are active in the North American market. Wago currently supports the MTConnect Standard 1.3.

* The author is Global Industry Manager Process, Wago Kontakttechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Minden/Germany.

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