AS-i, The Simplest Automation Networking Solution

Dated: 10/30/2008

Actuator Sensor interface (AS-i) is a simple wire reduction system

Easily replaces point to point wiring and complements existing higher level bus systems

Reduces wiring and eliminates multiple termination points

Connects inputs and outputs via a single two wire flat cable

Easy to install and commission

What is AS-i?

AS-i vs. Point-to-Point Wiring

Point-To-Point Wiring

Each bit of data needs its own wire.

Power is run separately (more wires).

Additional I/O points require additional PLC I/O cards.

Additional PLC I/O cards may require the use of a larger PLC rack or multiple racks.

Smaller PLC rack.

Smaller enclosures.

Less wire.

Standardized patch cables.

Potential to eliminate J-boxes.

Simpler documentation.

Less commissioning time.

Less Material & Labor

One cable for many bits of data.

One master replaces many PLC I/O cards = less wiring.

Quick disconnect at modules vs. point-to-point terminations.

I/O modules connect easily to the bus via insulation displacement connectors (IDC).

Simple Installation & Expansion

Modules connect easily to the bus via insulation displacement connections (IDC).

Mechanically coded flat cable - AS-i and additional power supply

Insulation displacement connectors - simple & safe - protection class up to IP67, - cables reseals up to IP65

Simple Installation & Expansion

AS-Interfaceelectro-mechanics

piercing connectors

mechanical codedflat cable

Less wire means less opportunity for error, less places to look for errors.

Communication errors are captured by the master.

Indicating lights on modules and masters communicate system and module status.

Easier Troubleshooting

Reducing overall machine cost

   

Wiring Labor Cost X

   

Wire labeling Cost X

   

Machine Assembly Labor Costs X

   

Machine Testing Labor Cost X

   

Machine Disassemble Cost X

   

Shipping Cost X

   

Customer Site Start up/ Commisioning Labor X

   

Travel Cost X

   

Time = Money

AS-i can reduce up to 50% of the overall machine cost

AS-i Installation

AS-i Installation

Overview of AS-i system components

AS-i Components

100 meters max. length per segment. With repeaters up to 300M

AS-i transmits only 4 data bits per message.

Single two wire unshielded cable carries input power and communication

AS-i Specifications

Up to 62 node addresses per network 248 inputs and 248 outputs

Auto Address replacement

Topology free network

Max. of up to 10ms response time

Two methods to connect AS-i to your existing platform

Method 1: Direct PLC connection

Fits into standard card slot in a PLC rack

Replaces traditional I/O cards I/O are mapped directly to I/O tables Programmed and configured

through standard PLC software No 3rd party software needed Available for most PLC platforms

Control Integration

Two methods to connect AS-i to your existing platform

Method 2: Complements current fieldbus

networks

Gateway becomes a single node on the fieldbus network, up to 992 I/O points per gateway

Reduces the price per point for connecting sensors and actuators

Available for DeviceNet, Profibus, Ethernet /IP, Modbus TCP, and CanOpen

Control Integration

ifm Controller-e gateway

Large Integrated Display

Connection to Fieldbus(Ethernet IP connection shown)

Diagnostic LEDs

AS-i and 24 VDC connections

After selecting the platform, pick an AS-i power supply

An integral and required part of an AS-i system Specialty 30 VDC power supply use to couple the master data for

transmission over the AS-i cable 2.8, 4 and 8 Amp versions available Provides power to all input devices and modules on the system

AS-i power supply

AS-i power supply

SmartLine

Compact

New ClassicLine Airbox

ProcessLineCabinet

PCB

Family of I/O modules

Choosing the correct I/O module to fit your application

Up to 4 inputs and 4 outputs

Analog inputs/outputs available in 4-20mA or 0-10V

Solid-state outputs protected against short circuits

and reverse polarity

Integrated addressing port

Inputs to be supplied either by the AS-i network or

24 VDC externally

Relay outputs versions available; rated up to 230 V

LED indication for short circuit and power

DIN rail mount

Connection via removable screw terminals,

Combicons

Control Cabinet Modules

Mounting technology does not require tools for installation

Three directions of rotation for flat cable

DIN rail mount

Up to 4 inputs and 4 outputs

Up to 2 analog (4-20mA) inputs

1 or 2 amp rated outputs available Digital inputs and outputs with LEDs for status

indication Integrated addressing port allows setup while

connected

New ClassicLine Field Modules

Mounting technology does not require tools for installation

Three directions of rotation for flat cable

DIN rail mount

Up to 4 inputs per Pneumatic module

Different valve types include 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 way Digital inputs and outputs with LEDs for status

indication Integrated addressing port allows setup while

connected

New ClassicLine Airbox Modules

Low profile design

Up to 4 inputs and 4 outputs per module

Fully potted units holds up to harsh environments

Increase resistance to shock and vibration

High amperage outputs rated for 2 amps Digital inputs and outputs with LEDs for status

indication Module base included

Compact Modules

IP69K protection rating

Up to 4 inputs and 3 outputs

Up to 4 analog (4-20mA) inputs

Quick mounting with only one screw

Full 316 Stainless Steel housing

Ecolab tested to resistance to common cleaning

agents found in the food industries

ProcessLine Modules

Benefits to Equipment builders

Reduces engineering time Reduces BOM cost Easy commissioning for new machines Easy trouble shooting No additional software

Benefits to End Users

Reduces maintenance cost Easy troubleshooting Easy expansion of existing

systems in house Training seminars offered by ifm efector

Complete sensor solution provider

ifm can also provide your sensing component and cable needs

Proximity sensors Photoelectric

Cables Pressure

Flow

Temperature