Easy to use, compact, stand-alone programmable controller gives simple, inexpensive, low level control for industrial as well as domestic applications.
SMC Pneumatics is introducing a new addition to the PneuAlpha the easy to use, compact, stand-alone programmable controller. The PneuAlpha concept is to give simple, inexpensive, low level control for industrial as well as domestic applications. Programming the controller is simple - Windows based Visual Logic Software is utilised, on a CD-ROM, this can be manipulated via a personal computer.

Anyone can drag, drop, point and click their way through a complete programme - perfect for the novice and yet sophisticated for the more demanding user.

Helpful on-screen hints and tips, as well as a 'wizard', are included, together with simulation and monitor modes, allowing the software to be proved prior to installation.

If control is required quickly, the PneuAlpha allows programming, editing, accessing data, or inputting data by using the keys on the front panel.

This is also ideal in areas where a computer would not be available.

The PneuAlpha has the greatest level of functionality for any controller in its class, combined with compact size, with DIN rail or screw type mounting enhancing its ability to be installed wherever required.

The new addition, the PneuAlpha2, gives expanded functions and capabilities in comparison to the early PneuAlpha, with basic I/O of 14 and 24, which can be expanded as an ASi slave or either 4 I/O 220-240V AC, 24VDC, 100-240V AC, or 24V DC.

With a maximum number of 28 I/O.

Also, the PneuAlpha2 now gives and expanded program to 200 function blocks, 1kHz high-speed counter input, wide operating temperature (-25 to 55degC), mobile connectivity with GSM, and other varied expansion options.

The PneuAlpha2 also features a larger liquid crystal display, allowing an increase of 4 lines and 12 characters per line, and it is now backlit.

Special characters supporting German, French and Spanish, are also new, together with enhanced screen management, numeric value calculation function, and PWM (pulse-width modulation) output instructions.

All PneuAlpha models have many, and various applications, a few examples are: - Repetitive function tests, pressure testing and sequence control, including pressure/vacuum tests.

Plant control, such as compressor control, receiver drains, and filtration systems.

Machine automation - high frequency welding control, special vehicle equipment, and gas control systems.

Domestic applications such as air conditioning and lighting control, irrigation, simple security systems.

The list is endless.

For example, one of SMC's customers has recently installed the PneuAlpha as part of their control system, to control a special purpose jig.

SMC cylinders were used for clamping, and to move an air powered die grinder.

The jig is used to remove burrs from waterways inside cylinder heads.

As well as controlling the jig, the PneuAlpha gives the end user batch counts per shift, and the ability to easily change the number of passes the die grinder makes per operation.