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04.02.2014 New multi-featured Counter Module adds flexible counting capability to CPX systems Festo, the leaders in automation technology, introduces the latest addition to its wellestablished CPX Modular Automation Platform, the CPX-2ZE2DA-PI Counter Module. System builders can now incorporate counting capability simply by plugging a CPX Counter Module directly into their CPX system; this eliminates the need for an external counter and the associated costs it would present in terms of hardware and software integration effort, space requirement, cabling and installation time. Once installed, the Counter Modules high I/O, operational mode and parameterization flexibility allows engineers and machine builders to set up sophisticated counting applications with minimal effort. These can be implemented directly on the CPX system with a wide range of plant sensors and actuators far more rapidly than was previously possible. Festos CPX platform is a complete automation solution that integrates a wide choice of pneumatic and electrical, analogue and digital I/O. CPX systems configured for specific requirements are delivered pre-built, tested and ready for installation, enabling system integrators to meet tight timeframes and budgets. For additional flexibility, the CPX platform can operate as either a self-contained industrial PLC, or as a local unit on a Fieldbus or Industrial Ethernet-based distributed system. In addition, a wide choice of I/O and connector modules makes interfacing to process sensors and actuators easy. The CPX Counter Module has two channels, allowing compact and cost-effective solutions for applications with multiple sensors. Each channel accepts most 24 V and 5 V pulse and single-ended or differential incremental encoders, as well as SSI absolute types; this facilitates a wide range of length, position, speed and angular position measurement applications. A direction signal, or 90 phase shift inputs, on each channel allow extraction of direction information for incremental encoders. Count continuously, count once and periodic count modes at 24 V and 5 V levels are supported with pulse count frequencies to 1 MHz. Output functions are also well supported; these include configurable 24 V digital, pulse, pulse train, pulse-width modulation (PWM), On/Off control with delay and frequency output to 20 kHz. In addition, by pairing the Counter channels 24 V DC motors can be controlled.

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Festo Ltd. Technology House 1 Fleetwood Park Barley Way Fleet Hants. GU51 2QJ Tel: 01252 775000

The Counter Module has features to improve the quality of its results. These include hysteresis to overcome encoder fluctuations, and limit monitoring and diagnostics. For ease of use and added flexibility, parameterisation of each channel for its input and output connections and functionality can be managed via a laptop using Festos free to download FMT software, as are commissioning and diagnostics. IP-rated CPX systems using the Counter Module can be mounted directly onto the machine being controlled rather than relegated to a cabinet, as the module can achieve IP65-rated ingress protection with an optional cover. This allows engineers to design more compact, reliable and cost-effective systems with reduced cabling requirements. The module features Festos new push-in connection technology, which makes connection to the counters inputs and outputs quick and easy. The Counter Module is designed for applications within the packaging, drive engineering, process, food & drink, mechanical engineering and other industries. One example concerns rotary or in-line filling machines of up to 18 nozzles each with flowmeters for accurate volume dispensing. The Counter Module counts the flowmeter pulses and controls outputs to the nozzle shut-off valves. Other examples include fast, bus- and control-independent reactions for controlling fast-switching valves, valve opening times and direction changing for fast drives, and pulse-width modulation control for thermostat temperature settings, drive speed and lamp brightness. These Counter Modules add an easily-installed, compact and highly functional counting capability to CPX systems, comments Jacqui Hanbury, Product Manager at Festo GB. In line with the CPXs Functional Integration philosophy, the modules connect directly to encoders without need for A/D converters and associated wiring. Parameterisation is also performed simply and quickly. Overall, this means that CPX users in a wide variety of applications can start benefiting from the Counter Modules considerable flexibility with minimal disruption or delay. For further information on the CPX Counter Module please visit www.festo.co.uk/press/countermodule, or for more information about Festos pneumatic and electric automation solutions visit www.festo.co.uk or call 0800 626 422.

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Image number 1, caption: Festo introduces the latest addition to its well-established CPX Modular Automation Platform, the CPX-2ZE2DA-PI Counter Module Image number 2, caption: The multi-featured Counter Module adds flexible counting capability to Festos CPX systems

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Or, for Festos latest news go to www.festo.co.uk/gbpress. Ref: FTO1143 About Festo Festo is a leading international supplier of automation technology with a turnover in 2012 of over 2.24 billion. Festo employs more than 16,000 people worldwide and is a proven innovator and problem solver in the field of pneumatic and electrical automation where it has established itself as the performance leader. Festo Industrial Automations innovative strength is demonstrated through the introduction of around 100 new products being launched every year. The company invests 9% of its turnover in R&D resulting in over 2,900 patents held worldwide. For more information about the companys products and services, please visit: www.festo.co.uk. Festo Training & Consulting specialises in the development of people, organisations and technology skills. Offering a range of open courses, structured development programmes and tailor-made, customer-specific projects, Festo trains over 42,000 delegates worldwide every year. More information on the training and consulting services can be found at www.festo-didactic.co.uk. Festos Bionic Learning Network encapsulates the innovative nature of Festo, raising awareness and attracting talent to the company. Exploring the links between nature and technology opens up new areas of innovation and demonstrates complex ideas in a stimulating and enjoyable way. Festo works with an alliance of internal R&D, external educational establishments and specialist companies, to advance the development of bionic solutions for automation applications of the future. For more information about Festos Bionic Learning Network, please visit: www.festo.com/gb/bionics For more information please visit www.festo.com

Telephone number for publication: - 01252 775000 Journalist contact: Dulcie Elliot, Technical Publicity Tel: 01582 390984 Email: delliot@technical-group.com