Festo launches its CPX-AP-A input/output solution: new heights of performance

The Festo Automation Platform (AP) provides the utmost in topology flexibility. All the distributed and decentralized I/O are under a single IP address.

After 10 years of development, Festo Canada has launched CPX-AP-A, a backplane-based remote I/O system that joins the manufacturer’s unparalleled range of electric and pneumatic automation solutions. Along with the Festo CPX-AP-I decentralized I/O system, these platforms are part of the Festo Automation Platform (AP) concept, delivering peak performance, flexibility, cost savings, and engineering productivity.

The CPX-AP-A system is a line of distributed I/O in which modules are attached within a terminal, as opposed to CPX-AP-I, which connects modules by cable lengths of up to 50 metres for decentralized control throughout a facility.

Utmost in topology flexibility

These AP modules are IP65/67-rated, whether located individual or on-terminal, and can be placed in cabinets or in clusters around cells, individually placed, or separated at great distances. Every AP module has a high-performance, real-time backplane transmission rate of 200 megabits per second, full duplex. The Festo AP series also offers the utmost in topology flexibility, giving machine builders the freedom to optimize the machine or cell by adding I/O where required and in ways that maximize performance and diagnostics capabilities. The AP ecosystem makes it efficient for users to add functionality when necessary.

With the Automation Platform concept, PLCs, valves, motors, drives, I/O, and other components appear to the programmer to be incorporated within one smart terminal under one IP address, whether physically attached on-terminal or connected by cable. Having the entire distributed and decentralized I/O topology appear under a single IP address substantially lowers hardware and installation expenses, as well as system complexity. This solution makes more capabilities possible per PLC, because many PLCs come with a limited number of addresses.

Addressing becomes straightforward, programming time decreases, and engineering productivity improves when all components appear as resident in one smart terminal to the programmer. As the functionality and capabilities of the system increase with the addition of modules, the overall distributed and decentralized I/O system becomes easier to create and maintain. Festo’s multi-year product roadmap calls for the continuing rollout of AP-based PLCs, valves, linear actuators, motors, and drives; original-equipment manufacturers and customers who want extended AP capabilities can rely on Festo support teams to make it happen. Count on Festo for innovative product development and manufacturing excellence.

For more information, contact Festo.

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