Weidmüller’s SAI-Active Universal Module with PROFIBUS-DP, CANopen or DeviceNet switching-on unit offers a unique lighting and marking concept

With the SAI-Active Universal, Weidmüller is offering an active sensor/actuator distributor based on a convincing lighting and marking concept. The innovative interior lighting makes the addressing space very visible. Therefore all sensor/actuator connections are fitted with arrow like I/O LEDs. Thanks to the inner lighted addressing space bus addresses can be set very precisely. This also renders stations clearly to recognise and assign; reducing the complexity for start-up and maintenance. Weidmüller offers its SAI-Active Universal Module with PROFIBUS-DP, CANopen or DeviceNet switching-on unit – the most commonly used and standardised field bus systems.

 

Weidmüller offers an extensive product range, residing between sensor/actuator of the field-area and control-area. Covering amongst others network infrastructure components for Industrial Ethernet, JACKPAC^® the Signal box in protection class IP 68, as well as pre-assembled sensor/actuator wiring. The new SAI-Active Universal Modules with PROFIBUS-DP, CANopen or DeviceNet switching-on unit are also part of this range of products.

 

The SAI-Active Universal Modules program includes three I/O variants. 54mm with is a strikingly small concept for the two rowed, bus compatible distributors. With respect to the I/O configuration, the SAI-Active Universal Module has 16 digital inputs (16 DI) or 8 programmable inputs each with one diagnostics input. This complies with the demands of DESINA (DESINA = decentralised and standardised installation technology for machine tools and production systems). The second SAI-Active Universal Module is equipped with 16 digital inputs and eight digital outputs. This module allows the user himself to configure eight ports via software, namely as digital inputs or outputs (8 DI or 8 DO). Two of the outputs can bear 0,5 A, two can handle 2 A, the total current is not to exceed 8 A. Users can configure different versions: 16 DI, 15 DI and 1DO, etc. The 16DI/18DO module enables four different separable tension potentials, three for the outputs (bridges with jumper) as well as one for the input and the module itself. The third SAI-Active Universal Module consists of four analogue inputs, two analogue outputs and four digital inputs. Designed for the following analogue functions: 0…20mA, 4…20mA, 0…10V, -10V…+10V. As apparent, Weidmüller doesn’t emphasise on a diversity of versions but rather on an optimised functional variety at each of the three modules.

 

SAI-Active Universal Modules are equipped with a transparent address top cover. Underneath the clear cover is the module’s lighted configuration space. This is a unique feature on the market so far. The lighting indicates clearly discernible: the module is on and working. Two rotary switches enable the address-giving for the fieldbuses. Actually 126 addresses maximum are possible for the PROFIBUS-DP module. The intelligently built lighting allows spotting the rotary switches more easily as well as setting the bus addresses precisely.  

The module feeding occurs with maximal four different tension potentials. In addition to the module tension, that also uses the inputs, there are three feeding points for the outputs. These outputs can be disconnected individually, according to the application. Two jumpers on the module allow bridging the potentials. The second feed-in plug can optionally be used as tension lead or transmitter. Moreover, seven status-displays present information on tension supply, collective diagnostic and the field buses.

 

In connection technology Weidmüller sets store by the standardised and usual in the market connectors M8 and M12. A ring nut and the standardised assignment ensure connection security and avoid errors in wiring. Each I/O connection has an arrow-LED to indicate the I/O status. The light conductors, arranged like an arrow, look towards the connectors and labelling. Thus the associated marker, lighted by the lighting, is easy and clearly to read. Each I/O channel has an own marker and there are two markers for the complete module. Markers can’t be assembled individually on the I/O side; instead quickly installable strip markers are used. A 40 mm marker is specially tuned for the SAI-Active Universal Module. Allowing placing even long texts – like bus addresses – in a visible way. Each pack comprises a Multicard Marker for self-labelling and printing with the Weidmüller PrintJet.

 

Two M12 connections for the field bus render the external T-piece unnecessary. The modules can be interlinked easily. Coding is standardised: B codes for PROFIBUS-DP and A codes for DeviceNet or CANopen. Every I/O channel is constantly being checked for errors. When an error is detected, the optical display placed directly at the connection shows it. The message is also transmitted via field bus. Additionally to the single channel diagnostic there is a module diagnostic for overvoltage, short-circuits, and field bus. This increases the availability of machines and installations and increases productivity.

 

All outputs are protected against short-circuits and reverse polarity. High performance actuators have two outputs that are to operate with max 2A output power. No special module is needed when an output needs more power due to the application. The 16DI/8DO module allows the user to configure it individually according to his applications and choose between 16DI to 8DI/8DO.

 

The analogue SAI-Active Universal Module is – just like the name says – for universal applications. With the master’s configuration software users can easily choose the configuration between current and tension. Weidmüller Jackpac^® can provide further power-on possibilities, like the PT100. Therefore, Jackpac^® modules are screwed between distributor and sensor reliably dissipating the signal.

 

2-rowed SAI-Active Universal Distributors are built in a compact way (HxBxT = 32 x 54 x 210 mm). The two-coloured housing - RAL9005 black and RAL7032 SAI grey – is designed in the high protection class IP 67 and is made of PBT plastics. PBT (Polybutylenterephtalat) is thermoplastic polyester with flammability class UL 94 5VA, which means it is self-extinguishing and burning material does not drip. UL94-5VA is the most exigent UL-test. For example, no functional damages on the module are allowed. PBT is oil resistant; hydraulic oil, motor oil or diesel oil don’t corrode the plastic. SAI-Active Universal Modules are built for harsh industrial environments, they endure vibrations, shocks and changing temperatures without harm. Certification for UL 508 is being prepared.

 

A metal clamp helps to realize a functional grounding at the assembly hole. Furthermore the screwing point offers room for a round clamping piece where you can put a conductance. Assembly is easy as there are two centrally located fixing holes.