Phoenix Contact Releases Caparoc Power Module With EtherNet/IP Interface
Customers will now be able to communicate via EtherNet/IP on their Caparoc circuit breaker system with the release of the new EtherNet/IP power module.
Phoenix Contact has added a power module with EtherNet/IP to its Caparoc circuit breaker system. The new module enables Caparoc circuit breaker system users to communicate with PLCs via the Ethernet/IP protocol to collect power data and signals, detect faults in the electrical system, and reduce downtime.
Phoenix Contact’s Caparoc circuit breaker system with the new EtherNet/IP power module. Image used courtesy of Phoenix Contact
Power Module With EtherNet/IP
The new power module, the Caparoc PM EIP, includes two Ethernet terminals that support EtherNet/IP and can handle speeds up to 100 Mbps. It requires an RJ45 twisted-pair cable for connection. The power module also features LED lights for easy troubleshooting.
The EtherNet/IP protocol allows end users to easily configure their system to monitor different statuses of each channel, such as short-circuit and overload detection, under- and overvoltage detection, and early warning current load. The system also enables remote access for monitoring and provides the option to lock local programming changes, individual channels, or the entire user interface to prevent changes to the system.
Phoenix Contact’s Caparoc PM EIP power module. Image used courtesy of Phoenix Contact
Caparoc Circuit Breaker System
Phoenix Contact’s Caparoc electronic circuit breaker system provides users overcurrent protection for 12 V and 24 V DC systems, with protection of 10 A per channel. The system consists of various components tailored to meet specific system requirements.
Users need a power feed-in module for each system, which provides a central power supply (12 V or 24 V) and can be bought with EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, or IO-Link protocols to connect with the devices in the cabinet to monitor circuit breaker statuses. Users can also opt for a standard S-R (status-reset) module.
Depending on the power module used, each system can be equipped with up to twenty circuit breaker modules. These modules can be 1-, 2-, or 4-channel and are available in fixed or adjustable nominal currents ranging from 2 A to 10 A or 1 A to 4 A for their NEC Class 2 versions.
The Caparoc circuit breaker system provides modular overcurrent protection. Image used courtesy of Phoenix Contact
Customizable Overcurrent Protection
The Caparoc circuit breaker system is available with optional accessories such as 0 V distribution modules, hazardous location-rated modules, and current rails. The 0 V distribution modules allow for convenient wiring of the system, enabling 0 V potential to be fed back to the Caparoc system without the need for separate terminal blocks.
The current rail provides power to the modules and allows for maintenance work to be performed without shutting down the system. Individual modules can be unplugged while the current rail continues to supply power to other devices. The Caparoc system can also be extended at any time to suit application needs.
