Phoenix Contact PLCnext Technology: Advanced Automation Solutions
Phoenix Contact's PLCnext technology offers an open, future-proof platform for industrial automation, combining powerful hardware with flexible software and a comprehensive ecosystem.
PLCnext Technology: The Core Platform
PLCnext technology is designed for the challenges of modern automation, enabling users to leverage diverse programming languages and development environments. It supports IEC 61131-3 standards alongside C/C++, C#, and MATLAB Simulink, providing unparalleled flexibility for complex automation tasks. The platform emphasizes an open architecture, allowing integration with various cloud services and IT technologies like Docker and Linux APIs.
Key features include:
- Open Architecture: Facilitates integration with cloud platforms (e.g., Proficloud, AWS) and modern IT tools.
- Multi-Language Programming: Supports IEC 61131-3, C/C++, C#, and MATLAB Simulink.
- Real-time Operating System: Based on Linux for robust performance.
- Global Data Space (GDS): Enables efficient data exchange.
- Web Server & eHMI: For visualization and remote access.
- Extensive Communication: Supports protocols like OPC UA, Profinet, Profibus, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Canopen, MQTT, and IO-Link.
PLCnext Controllers
Phoenix Contact offers a range of PLCnext Control hardware platforms designed for demanding industrial applications. These controllers provide high performance, robust connectivity, and the flexibility to run diverse applications.
Key controller series include:
- AXC F Series: High-performance controllers featuring ARM Cortex processors, suitable for complex tasks and extensive I/O connectivity. Models include AXC F 1152, AXC F 2152, and AXC F 3152, offering varying CPU power, memory, and I/O capacities.
- AXC 1050 Series: Compact controllers with ARM Cortex processors, ideal for space-constrained applications.
- AXC 3050 Series: Controllers based on Intel Atom processors, offering enhanced processing power for demanding applications.
- AXC XT Series: Industrial PCs designed for robust automation tasks.
These controllers support various communication interfaces and protocols, including Profinet, Profisafe, and M2M/OPC UA.
PLCnext Engineer: Engineering Software
PLCnext Engineer is the integrated development environment (IDE) for the PLCnext ecosystem. It allows users to configure hardware, program controllers using multiple languages (IEC 61131-3, C/C++, C#), debug applications, and manage projects. It supports advanced features like alarming, trending, application control, and source code management.
It integrates seamlessly with development tools like Visual Studio and Eclipse, and supports programming with MATLAB Simulink.
PLCnext Store and Community
The PLCnext Store provides a platform for accessing and deploying pre-built software applications and libraries, extending the functionality of PLCnext controllers. The PLCnext Community (plcnext-community.net) offers resources, forums, and support for developers and users.
Axioline I/O Systems
Phoenix Contact's Axioline product family offers a comprehensive range of input/output modules designed for flexible and robust industrial data acquisition and control. These systems are characterized by their modularity, ease of integration, and support for various industrial communication standards.
Axioline F (Inline I/O)
Axioline F provides a compact, inline I/O system with a wide array of digital, analog, and special function modules. It is designed for direct integration into control cabinets and supports high-speed data transfer via Profinet and Profisafe. Key features include:
- Modular design with various digital and analog I/O modules.
- Support for Profinet, Profisafe, and IO-Link.
- High data density and efficient wiring.
- Models like DI 16/1 (2688310), AI4 I (2688491), RTD4 (2688556) are examples of available modules.
Axioline SE (Smart Elements)
Axioline SE offers intelligent, compact I/O modules with smart features, often utilizing IO-Link for enhanced diagnostics and configuration. These modules are designed for flexibility and ease of use in various automation scenarios.
Axioline E (Compact I/O)
Axioline E provides compact I/O solutions with M12 connectors, suitable for harsh environments and applications requiring high protection ratings (IP65/IP67). It supports a broad range of communication protocols including EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, Modbus/TCP, Profibus, Profinet, and Sercos, along with IO-Link. This series offers high channel density and robust connectivity.
Key Technologies and Protocols
The PLCnext ecosystem supports a wide range of industry-standard communication protocols and safety technologies:
- Communication Protocols: Profinet, Profisafe, IO-Link, EtherNet/IP, Modbus/TCP, OPC UA, MQTT, Profibus, Interbus, Canopen.
- Safety Technologies: SIL3 PLe compliance, Profisafe, SafetyBridge technology for safety-related communication.
- Cloud Integration: Proficloud, Microsoft Azure support.
- Other Technologies: NAMUR Open Architecture (NOA) for analytics and diagnostics.
Global Presence
Phoenix Contact operates globally, providing automation solutions and support across various regions, including North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
For more information, visit phoenixcontact.net or the specific webcode link provided in the document (e.g., phoenixcontact.net/webcode/#1234).