Shop Floor Automations Announces Multi Connect: Turnkey Device for Real‑Time Machine Monitoring at IMTS 2016

Shop Floor Automations Inc has announced the release of the Multi Connect, a turnkey device that monitors a machine's operating state and essential...

Shop Floor Automations Inc has announced the release of the Multi Connect, a turnkey device that monitors a machine's operating state and essential data. It also makes monitored information available digitally, using the industry-standard MTConnect protocol.

The new tool will be officially unveiled at IMTS 2016, which is held in Chicago, USA, and runs between the 12th and 17th of September.

The Multi-Connect consolidates the jobs of two devices into one, and is compatible with a wide array of machine monitoring software packages. 

Its software connects to a variety of equipment via built-in digital I/O, overlaid on existing signals for monitoring cycle start, cycle stop, alarm, and status indictors such as stack lights. These inputs support 10 to 30 VDC signals and may be configured to detect on/off/pulse-type signals. The user can then map the data signals to the MTConnect standard data items.

The device is small and compact, designed for direct machine mounting, and packaged in a compact metal chassis. The unit accepts 12 to 48 VDC input power, while all models are equipped with redundant power inputs to ensure uninterrupted operation.

The Multi Connect also features a MicroSD slot for configuration backup, and wireless functions for flexible integration.

Follow @ManufacturingGL and @NellWalkerMG