Recently, the industrial automation sector has witnessed a significant transformation as SMC Corporation, a leading enterprise in the industry, has launched three innovative products. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, these products have delivered a powerful blow to the traditional wiring models, opening up brand-new avenues for the development of industrial automation.

IN574 Wireless Automatic Switch: Breaking Free from Cable Constraints, Ushering in a New Wireless Era

The traditional wiring mode of industrial equipment has long been plagued by issues such as high costs, difficult construction, and frequent malfunctions. However, SMC's newly introduced IN574 series wireless automatic switch has acted like a "game-changer," completely breaking this deadlock. This product boldly adopts Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) technology, enabling industrial equipment to break free from its reliance on cables for power supply and communication.

The IN574 series can achieve power supply and data transmission without the need for cables or batteries, thus fundamentally resolving numerous problems associated with traditional wiring. Its built-in capacitor is a major innovative highlight. Even when disconnected from the power supply, the device can still operate stably for up to 30 seconds (the specific duration is influenced by the operating frequency and environmental factors) in complex working conditions, greatly enhancing the device's reliability.

In addition, the system is equipped with a wireless automatic switch, a wireless power transmitter, and a compact wireless base. It supports multiple mainstream communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and EtherCAT, allowing for easy adaptation in both small-scale production lines and large-scale industrial projects. To facilitate users in getting started quickly, SMC has also thoughtfully launched a starter kit. Currently, the IN574 series has been approved for use in Japan, the United States, and Canada, becoming an important milestone in the process of industrial wirelessization and marking the official entry of industrial equipment into a new wireless era.

EX600 Fieldbus System: Flexible Configuration, Setting a New Benchmark for Multi-Compatibility

The EX600 series fieldbus system, with its rich functions and powerful compatibility, has become a capable assistant in the configuration of industrial automation systems. Based on fieldbus technology, this system provides a series of diagnostic functions and programmable parameters, supporting digital input/output and analog input/output units, and enabling highly flexible system configuration.

The EX600 can connect up to nine remote units. These units include D-type interface-style manifold plates, IO-Link modules, as well as other compatible input/output or valve configurations, which can be selected according to the system layout. Moreover, it is perfectly compatible with various valve series offered by SMC Corporation. It is worth mentioning that the EX600 has newly added an IO-Link-compatible terminal unit, which can be seamlessly integrated with IO-Link sensors and actuators, further expanding the system's application scope.

In terms of communication protocols, the EX600 supports a variety of mainstream protocols, including Process Field Bus (PROFIBUS-DP), DeviceNet, Control & Communication Link (CC-Link), Ethernet/Industrial Protocol (EtherNet/IP), EtherCAT Control Automation Technology Protocol (EtherCAT), PROFINET, and CC-Link IE Fieldbus, providing users with more choices. The system offers both centralized and distributed input/output configurations, including options such as wireless units, IO-Link modules, handheld terminals, and various input/output units. With a maximum protection rating of IP67, it can adapt to various harsh industrial environments.

EX260 Fieldbus System: Compact and Efficient, Driving a New Revolution in Solenoid Valves

The EX260 series fieldbus system is specifically designed for driving multi-port solenoid valves. With its compact design and efficient performance, it has brought about a new revolution in the field of industrial automation. The system has a width of approximately 28 millimeters but can support up to 32 solenoid valves. It adopts daisy-chain wiring for communication and power supply, effectively reducing the wiring space and complexity, and lowering installation and maintenance costs.

The EX260 series is compatible with communication protocols such as Ethernet/Industrial Protocol (EtherNet/IP) and PROFINET, and possesses IO-Link compatibility, enabling seamless connection with various industrial equipment. At the same time, the system supports safety communication standards such as PROFIsafe and has a protection rating of IP67, ensuring stable operation in various industrial environments.

Its unique design allows for wiring and piping connections from the same direction, greatly simplifying the installation and maintenance processes. In addition, the EX260 supports RJ-45 connectors, is compatible with widely used Ethernet-based network infrastructures, and facilitates system integration and upgrades for users.

Leading the Industry Revolution, SMC Continues to Sail Ahead

The three new products, IN574, EX600, and EX260, launched by SMC this time have brought about disruptive innovations to the traditional wiring models from different perspectives. They have not only improved the efficiency and performance of industrial automation but also reduced the operating costs and maintenance difficulties for enterprises.

In the current era of accelerated development of Industry 4.0 and intelligent manufacturing, SMC's innovative products have set a new benchmark for the industry. With the widespread application of these three products, the industrial automation sector will witness a dual revolution in efficiency and technology. SMC will also leverage this breakthrough to continue consolidating its leading position in the industry and lead industrial automation towards new heights.