On many machines from Europe, mainly, we have seen that there is a yellow wire very particular profile that runs through the machine and which connect the various sensors inductive or photoelectric control system, actuators, etc..
But ... What is special about this particular configuration?
Actuator-Sensor Interface (AS Interface), with its characteristic yellow wire is one of the most innovative network solutions in modern automation technology.
The AS Interface was developed in 1990 as a low cost alternative to the typical wiring of actuators and sensors dispositvios I / O (branched wiring) and has proved extremely reliable after several years of use in many sectors of industry.
The original idea was to put in simple network binary sensors and actuators with a single cable capable of transmitting information and energy (power) at the same time.
Thus, with AS Interface allows sensors and actuators can be linked and configured by a network.
The spectrum for transmission on the network or power supply has been extended. The different support profiles simple exchanges of information between products from different manufacturers.
Very good idea, but ... What level of the automation pyramid is AS-Interface?
TECHNICAL
Standard: AS-Interface TG IEC 178.
Access Method: Master-slave.
transmission rate: 167 Kbps
Middle transmission elements: Two bare wires.
Maximum number stations: 62 slaves.
Extensive network: 100 m, extendable with repeaters up to 500 m.
Topology: Bus, tree, star.
Protocol: AS-Interface.
Applications: Actuators and sensors.
¿Data and energy on the same cable?
AS Intetface uses a two-wire ribbon cable (2x1, 5 mm2) without display to transmit data and power. Up to 8 A can be transmitted through the yellow wire.
The maximum cable length is 100 m but can be extended using repeaters.
How do you connect the sensors to the cable?
The structure of the cable allows a single, simple installation techniques; contact blades penetrate the insulation are not necessary jumpers or additional insulation.
Structure or tree topology
Virtually any topology is possible, particularly the more flexible of these is the structure tree. Each slave can be connected at its peak and a new line connections can also be performed anywhere.
How does AS-I network?
... Anything else?
Easy connection of analog slaves, AS Interface Version 2.1 has been optimized for discrete and analog devices on it. lowest level of automation. The transmission of analog signals is as simple as the transmission of binary signals.
All information is automatically recognized and exchanged. No need for a configuration using the program.
More detailed diagnosis, in addition to communication errors, AS Interface Version 2.1 can also recognize O errors as short circuits, overload or absence of auxiliary voltage. You can also locate these errors exactly.
BENEFITS
AS Interface has many advantages over traditional solutions:
- No need for cards or input / output.
- Simple and easy configuration and installation of the network. . .
- Fewer cables, smaller dimensions of control panels, fewer trays, conduits and pull boxes,
- Comparatively little work of planning needed.
- Documentation simple.
- Easy addition of peripheral compared to more complex systems.
- Easy installation verification.
- Fast implementation.
- High reliability for continuous diagnosis of the sensors and actuators.
- Decrease downtime.
Use Interface ® AS implies a potential savings of up to 40%
