IDEC introduced a new model in its FT1A Touch micro programmable controller series of combo HMI+PLC units, the FT1A Touch 14 I/O. New features make the FT1A Touch 14 I/O suitable for advanced analog monitoring and control, allowing users to economically perform both operator interface and control for a much wider range of applications, according to IDEC.
The FT1A Touch 14 I/O combines operator interface and control in a single compact package, all programmable with IDEC’s PC-based software. It provides up to 158 discrete and analog inputs and outputs (using FT1A controllers as Remote I/O slaves), PID control, Ethernet communications and a built-in 3.8-inch touchscreen HMI in a compact package. It is suited for applications requiring a graphical user interface along with discrete and analog control.
The device has 14 I/O consisting of eight discrete inputs of which two can be configured as analog, four discrete outputs and two analog outputs. The discrete inputs can handle switching frequencies up to 10KHz. The analog inputs and outputs can be configured as either 0-10Vdc or 4-20mA. Two analog expansion adapters can be added, each with either two inputs or two outputs. Remote I/O capability allows up to three FT1A controllers to be configured as remote I/O slaves with 24, 40 or 48 I/O, for a maximum of 158 I/O on a single control system.
PID control functions include auto-tuning, anti-reset windup and bumpless transfer. Programming is accomplished via IDEC’s WindLDR, and the HMI is programmed using IDEC’s WindO/I-NV3 software. The WindLDR software allows users to simulate ladder and function block programs to test software without requiring connection of hardware. Communications includes RS232C and RS485 ports for serial networking; an RJ45 Ethernet port for remote Ethernet and Modbus TCP communications; and a USB port for entering recipe data, performing program updates and data logging.
