In modern industrial automation applications, small PLC solutions are often an ideal solution, particularly within standalone environments. With the introduction of the AC500-eCo, ABB has added a great product to the AC500 family, which is extremely cost-effective in smaller projects. The AC500-eCo has been designed to enhance the flexible and scalable concept of the AC500 PLC range. Included within the AC500-eCo package is a comprehensive range of communication options, which are rarely provided in such products including the Modbus master/slave or the CS31. A second serial interface and an SD card interface are also available. A Real Time Clock is optional.

The main benefits that the AC500-eCo delivers to the modern automation market include:

• Low cost, high performance entry level PLC system with 128kB memory as standard
• High CPU functionality with integrated digitals and analogue I/O
• Configurable I/O including interrupt, high speed counter and PWM functionality
• Easy data backup without the need of an on-board battery
• Total inter-operability with the existing AC500 range
• Low cost, distributed expansion (incl. Modbus, CS31)
• Easy wiring with pluggable I/O expansion modules (spring or screw)
• Download of user program or firmware updates via SD card without programming device
• One programming software for the entire AC500 family, based on CoDeSys
• Up to two serial ports for programming and communication
• O.1 ms per 1k instructions scan speed

The new AC500-eCo includes integrated digital and analog inputs and outputs on-board the CPU, which can support up to seven S500 I/O expansion modules. A secure connection to the system bus is established using sturdy, laterally integrated plugs.

The new S500-eCo range significantly enhances the existing range offering more flexibility and scalable features including 14 new slim format I/O modules, which integrate seamlessly with the existing AC500 range. This powerful, compact, and cost efficient control system is suited to applications within most markets including: textiles, food & beverage, building management, material handling, transportation, traditional & alternate energy, and environmental control systems.

A major AC500-eCo system feature, apart from its absolute inter-operability with the existing AC500 range, is that the AC500-eCo is configured and programmed using the same PS501 Control Builder programming software, which complies with the EN 61131-3 standard. This includes the five programming languages, thus delivering a single, simple, and integrated software platform to our customers. PS501 software includes extensive simulation, diagnostics, and integrated visualization.

The AC500 concept is a unique example of a flexible, future-oriented, automation platform. The simple system structure, standardized interfaces, and programming environment allow quick and easy configuration.

ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 120,000 people.

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