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Weidmüller Upgrades U-remote for Improved Performance and Integration

February 22, 2024 by Austin Futrell

The u-remote system will now be equipped with modern technology developed by Weidmüller to enhance internal back panel bus communication to celebrate the u-remote’s tenth birthday.

Weidmüller’s Back Panel Improvements

A recent announcement from automation industry leader Weidmüller explains the enhancement of the u-remote I/O system, aiming to elevate module performance and align the system with the demands of evolving machinery and systems. These evolutions demand that I/O systems detect more complex incoming signals quickly and effectively while making them available within the network.

Smart sensors are tasked with receiving intricate signals, surpassing typical status transmissions. Unlike conventional sensors that only capture digital or analog data, these intelligent counterparts record additional parameters like the measured variable unit, a timestamp, and status detail. The transmission of such complex signals through smart sensors introduces challenges such as sluggish data processing, increased data volume, and the demand to prioritize a diverse range of data.

 

Weidmuller's u-remote I/O system

Weidmüller’s u-remote system. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

 

U-remote has undertaken the challenge of overcoming these consequences, improving the backplane communication bus with a sevenfold increase in performance ability. These performance enhancers vastly improve the u-remote’s capability to process vast amounts of data within a back panel bus cycle, generating evolved processing power and rapid output responses. Systems benefit from the resulting heightened resolution showcasing increased coordination of control processes.

Weidmüller engineered the chip to maintain compatibility with earlier I/O modules. The company intends to integrate this technology across its entire I/O product range, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and performance of the Weidmüller brand.

 

Weidmüller’s U-Remote Mechanical Advantages

Weidmüller places a strong emphasis on automation products, consistently delivering intuitive handling through their software and hardware offerings for numerous years. The hardware boasts several advantages over competitors, including its slim housing width of 11.5 mm, which represents just the initial aspect of its mechanical advantages.

The I/O module consists of a straightforward three-part composition comprising terminal strips, electronics, and a base module. These terminal strips offer three key functionalities aimed at simplifying the wiring process for users. They incorporate a swiveling mechanism, a removal lever, and a hot-swap capability. The swiveling feature provides effortless addition and removal of I/O wires. The removal lever enables terminals to be removed from the module without any tools if the I/O block becomes unnecessary. Additionally, the hot-swap capabilities allow terminals to be replaced with or without power. These features within the terminal strips minimize downtime and reduce the potential for errors.

 

Weidmuller is committed to helping companies achieve digitalization goals

Weidmüller works towards creating solutions for every application. Image used courtesy of Weidmüller

 

Weidmüller’s Web Server Function

A web server within the field bus coupler grants users the flexibility to configure both the module and field bus according to their specific requirements. Empowering users with the capability to monitor and implement changes, the web server allows users the option of testing, changing settings directly, and monitoring capabilities giving access to all status information, diagnoses, and process data. Accessibility is through standard web browsers, ensuring compatibility even with a standard iPhone. These settings can be easily replicated across other modules, making Weidmüller’s installation process simple without the need for additional software.

 

Easy Integration with Weidmüller

Weidmüller's ongoing advancements in the u-remote device have led to significant enhancements. The U-remote I/O systems offer easy integration into a wide array of automation industries, driven by the incorporation of eleven communication protocols.