Advantech releases two new internet gateways for factories
Advantech has released two new gateways which it says enable “seamless protocol conversion” for internet of things data.
The new gateways extend the company’s Protocol Gateway Series for protocol conversion.
These new protocol gateway devices support protocol conversion from Modbus TCP to EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP to ProfiNet.
Advantech says they provide a cost-effective solution and enable seamless connection between different devices with different protocols, and also provide a high level of device management efficiency.
The new gateways – EKI-1221IEIMB and EKI-1221PNMB – are designed for reliable protocol extensibility and seamless integration with existing network devices.
Advantech says they offer a viable solution for efficiently converting data from legacy devices and reduce the possibility of expensive device purchase or software programming errors.
With the addition of these protocol gateway devices into existing network infrastructures, customers can build a seamless data path between otherwise incompatible network devices and extend their useful life without a heavy price tag or major upgrade.
Advantech says the implementation of its Protocol Gateway Series is “simple and fast”; they are easy to setup and configure, and they are compatible with Siemens’ and Rockwell HMI/PLCs.
They have a built-in diagnostic tool that can connect data and monitor the status of connected devices in real-time.
This allows operators to utilize collected data, analyze it, and find suitable solutions to prevent potential problems.
Instrument data from each machine/device can be sent via EtherNet/IP or ProfiNet PLC protocol conversion performed by an Advantech Protocol Gateway for further analysis in order to monitor the condition of in-service equipment.
Their fast deployment not only facilitates a productive workflow, but also enables easy machine automation management and maintenance on the shop floor, says Advantech.
The company adds that this is a “crucial function for predictive maintenance management”.