Lenze-AC Tech announces the release of Additional I/O Modules for SMVector NEMA 1 and NEMA 4X Inverters.

Available for the NEMA 1 and 4X SMVector models, the Additional I/O Modules are available in two configurations (ESVZAL0, ESVZAL1). The modules supplement the standard I/O functions by providing 1 programmable form C relay output (ESVZAL0) or 1 programmable form C relay output and 2 programmable digital inputs (ESVZAL1).

The I/O module does not add to the overall size of the SMVector inverter as it fits right into the SMVector inverter terminal cover allowing for easy field installation. SMVector inverters that are fitted with an additional I/O module option will no longer have the capability of accommodating an optional communication module. “The additional I/O module is great for applications requiring a relay and/or more digital inputs.” says Steve Dextraze, Inverter Product Manager at Lenze-AC Tech. “The two extra digital inputs are just that – supplementary – and allow the drive to be configured for several application specific tasks such as multiple preset speeds, electronic braking and motor jogging.”

The SMVector inverter drive provides all the features required by demanding applications, including four modes of operation – V/Hz, Enhanced V/Hz, Vector Speed, and Torque – plus high starting torque, auto-tuning, advanced low-speed control and dynamic speed regulation. The SMVector is designed to be truly a global product, with an input voltage ranging from 120VAC 1-phase to 600 VAC, 3-phase, plus the Electronic Programming Module or EPM, a removable chip that is the drive’s memory and allows a customer to program multiple drives in just seconds.

Lenze-AC Tech develops, manufactures, markets and supports a complete range of motion control solutions, including servo drives and motors, clutches and brakes, gears and gear motors and variable frequency AC motor drives. Lenze-AC Tech’s portfolio of AC Drive products extends from some of the world’s smallest sub-micro drives up through large, 500 HP.

For three years running, Lenze-AC Tech products have been recognized by Plant Engineering. In 2006, the SMVector Nema1 familyof AC drives and in 2007, the SMVector Nema 4x family of AC drives were both chosen by a panel of industry experts as a finalist for the Plant Engineering magazine Product of the Year Award.

In 2009 the PositionServo with MotionView set-up and Configuration tool embedded within the drive (eliminating the need for external software) so impressed the Plant Engineering Magazine’s readers that they voted it the winner in the servo product category.

Criteria for finalists
Product of the Year is a prestigious award bestowed by Plant Engineering magazine. The recipients are manufacturers who have come up with the best ideas to make plant operation better and smarter.

The process
Plant Engineering subscribers who have buy/specify responsibilities are invited to cast an electronic vote to choose the finalists. The votes are then tabulated to pick gold, silver and bronze winners in each category.

Lenze-AC Tech announces the release of EtherNet/IP as an optional communication protocol for the SMVector Drive. According to Mike Bailey, Product Sales Manager at Lenze-AC Tech, the SMVector AC Drive can seamlessly operate on an EtherNet/IP network with the addition of a simple plug-in communication module. “Other network protocols are also available as option modules including CANopen, DeviceNet, Profibus and Modbus RS-485,” states Bailey.

EtherNet/IP is a member of the DeviceNet and ControlNet family of Common Industrial Protocols (CIP) developed by Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation – ROK). As a member of the CIP family, EtherNet/IP can utilize the same set of pre-defined common objects, thus making communication between devices from different manufacturers much easier.

According to Lenze-AC Tech company officials, Lenze-AC Tech worked together with Allen-Bradley engineers to ensure complete product compatibility. “We first added EtherNet/IP to our PositionServo Drive and since then, our customers have been looking for EtherNet/IP for their AC Drive Solutions,” says Bailey, and he adds, “Allen-Bradley remains the largest implementer of EtherNet/IP, with most applications in the packaging and automotive markets; providing Allen-Bradley compatibility and multiple communication options for all of our products allows our customers to choose the fieldbus that best fits their automation application as well as their physical network.” Bailey explains that EtherNet/IP is a popular industrial network solution because it can support a nearly unlimited amount of nodes, can be used on a single point connection for configuration and control and permits devices to send and receive messages simultaneously.