Online Development Inc. is introducing a new controller-to-controller module at Automation Fair that enables connecting various brands of PLCs without the need to program message instructions. The cATM Universal Gateway data appliance is available as a module that installs in a Rockwell Automation ControlLogix PAC, or as a standalone module for DIN rail mounting. Either configuration delivers over 130 protocols for connectivity to thousands of plant floor devices. The new appliance features a universal driver to connect to a wide range of Ethernet and serial devices such as analyzers, bar code readers, weigh scales, RFID systems, serial printers, label machines and more. Target applications for this appliance include M2M (machine-to-machine) communications to improve equipment interoperability while maximizing investments in installed equipment.
Online Development worked in partnership with Kepware Technologies to develop the cATM Universal Gateway appliance. It combines Kepware’s proven suite of protocols with Online Development’s embedded appliance experience to make the benefits of M2M more available and easier to deploy.
“This new appliance will help manufacturers migrate existing equipment to new levels on interoperability to achieve communications throughout their facilities for better operating performance. Being an appliance, the cATM Universal Gateway is inherently easy-to-use and lower in cost than conventional methods of controller-to-controller connectivity,” commented Ron Monday, president and CEO of Online Development.
Online Development will be demonstrating the cATM Universal Gateway in booth 618 at Automation Fair along with its eATM appliances that provide controller-to-enterprise system connectivity. Automation Fair, sponsored by Rockwell Automation, is being held in Nashville, Tennessee, November 19 and 20, 2008.
About Online Development
Online Development is a fast track developer of factory automation data appliances. Since its founding in 1989, the company has led the industry in developing the technologies needed to enable various leading brands of PLCs/PACs to communicate with field devices or other controllers on the factory floor. The technologies developed by the company provide very simple, yet highly effective, connectivity between various proprietary factory automation devices including barcode scanners, modems, printers, robots, HMIs, sensors, RFIDs, and popular factory/warehouse network systems.
Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Online Development is privately owned and has offices in Cleveland, Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio and Barcelona, Spain. Online Development, Inc. Headquarters Address: 7209 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920. Main Telephone: 800-625-8678, website: www.oldi.com.
About Kepware Technologies
Kepware is the world leader in communication software for automation and offers a unique experience in both OPC and embedded device communications. Since 1995, Kepware has focused on the development of communication drivers to automation controllers, I/O and field devices. Applications include M2M (Machine-to-Machine) and M2E (Machine-to-Enterprise) communications. Operating system support includes: Microsoft Windows Desktop, Windows Server and Windows Embedded (Windows CE and Windows Embedded NT/XP). Today, with over 130 communication protocols, and through the efforts of direct sales, distribution and embedded partners, Kepware is the leading provider of communications with annual shipments exceeding 100,000 units.
Kepware Technologies is headquartered in Portland, Maine. For more information phone: 1-888-Kepware (1-888-537-9273), or visit the company’s web site: www.kepware.com
