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Cara Bereck Levy

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Blog Entries posted by Cara Bereck Levy

  1. Cara Bereck Levy
    Last month, I blogged about recent Application Stories. One was a retrofit application - a rice-filling machine - done by Imapsa Automation of Guatemala and Honduras.
    The story was picked up by IEN. You can find it featured on page 22.
    Hat-tip to Ober Yela (HighTech on the forum) for collaborating on the application story with us! Remember, guys - if you have an interesting application, we'd love to hear about it
    http://digital.ien.eu/digitalMagazine?issue_id=573
    Imapsa also posted
    showing the application itself:
  2. Cara Bereck Levy
    We want to thank the community members who voted in Control Engineering's 2022 Engineer's Choice Awards!
    The Grand Award is bestowed upon the product that receives the most overall votes. This year’s Grand Award recipient is our very own UniStream 'Cloud' controllers, voted the top award over 72 finalists.
    Click here to read the article in Control Engineering: Spotlight on Innovation: 2022 Engineers’ Choice Awards.
    Click here to read more about UniStream 'Cloud Inside' Controllers--and get a link to our recent webinar on using this fine product to benefit your business!

  3. Cara Bereck Levy
    Unitronics Upcoming Webinars  | Spring 2022
    Knowledge is Power - Enhance your Automation Skills!
     We invite you to join one or more of our live, free webinars to deepen your knowledge of Unitronics products, programs, and services.
    Register for one or more of our upcoming webinars today!
     
    Webinars  | Spring 2022
    Subject: VFD | The Simplest Way to Control via Communication
    Date: March 23rd at 11:00 EDT | 15:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: UniCloud: The Business Benefits
    Date: April 6th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: Getting Started with UniCloud: The Basics with UniStream Controllers
    Date: April 13th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: Getting Started with UniCloud: The Basics with Vison & Samba Controllers
    Date: April 14th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: Servo made simple: Motion control with Unitronics
    Date: April 26th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: The power of HMI
    Date: May 4th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: UniCloud | New Features, Functions and Capabilities
    Date: May 18th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: Total Solution – One integrated Solution
    Date: June 1st at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: UniLogic Introduction
    Date: June 15th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
    Subject: Unitronics Eco-System: from OT to IT & Cloud (Communications)
    Date: June 29th at 10:00 EDT | 14:00 GMT
    Click Here to Register >>
     
  4. Cara Bereck Levy
    People--if you are doing Motion Application, you definitely want to attend this webinar!
    And if you're not--you STILL want to attend, because once you see how simple we have made it, you will be able to enter the world of Motion!
    -------And so, we invite you to:
     
    Remote Motion Control: Servo Applications During Crisis   What if you - or your staff - CAN’T travel to your installation site?   No worries. Unitronics has you covered.   Join Unitronics’ expert in Motion applications to learn how pairing UniStream controllers with Unitronics Servos empowers you to carry out motion application tasks – REMOTELY!   Monday April 27   9:00 am CEST 3:00 pm CST 8:00 am BST   7:00 am PT 9:00 am CDT 10:00 am ET     In this free webinar our Motion Solution expert will show you how to remotely implement Unitronics Servo made Simple, from the comfort of your office or home.   Servo Made Simple enables you OFFSITE to: Configure and commission all aspects of Motion Control  Instantly setup communications between all Motion Control components  Use Ready-Made Motion Code: Supplied at purchase, to start moving instantly:
       -Point-to-Point , Jog, Homing  Run diagnostic tests & tune motion quickly and easily   TAKING ACTION: CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE, AT ANYTIME   Today, more than ever before, you need offsite access, the ability to access your control applications from anywhere, at anytime.    Learn Best Remote Access Practices – just click below!                  
  5. Cara Bereck Levy
    Our very own UniStream 10.4" Multi-touch PLC+HMI is a finalist in Control Engineering's Engineers Choice award for 2018, in the category of Hardware: Integrated HMI Controllers!

    If you would like to help us maintain our 6-year winning streak (last year won by our Samba 7" HMI + PLC),
    please go here and place your vote!

    * Note that CE is using a new platform for this year's voting--you may need to register, a quick and easy process.
    https://gspplatform.cfemedia.com/pe/productProfile/59847faee4b0fa3a7242ee95
    . https://gspplatform.cfemedia.com/pe/productProfile/59847faee4b0fa3a7242ee95
  6. Cara Bereck Levy
    What do you do if you have an existing system,  different devices running on different protocols...and you've got to implement control, plus hook up via IEC104S to a SCADA...and that is only part of the picture.
    Well--if you are Rene Tomingas FIE of Estonia, you use Unitronics All-in-One PLC + HMI programmable controllers , models Vision1040 and V570, to get the job done!
    Read about it here:
    https://unitronicsplc.com/testemonials-category-carrousel/?category=Power-Energy&tid3170

  7. Cara Bereck Levy
    We are truly proud to announce that Frost & Sullivan, a major market research and analysis firm, has honored Unitronic's with the Best Practices Awards for 2016.
    The prestigious award for Global Advanced PLC Product Line Strategy Leadership was given after Frost & Sullivan conducted an in-depth review of Unitronics products, specifically our 3 major product series--Samba, Vision, and UniStream--in relation to the dynamic, competitive market that challenges PLC manufacturers.
    Read all about it here: https://unitronicsplc.com/press-release/?prid=12146

  8. Cara Bereck Levy
    This major release of UniLogic, the programming software for UniStream programmable controllers, introduces Multi-Touch HMI screen technology, familiar to us all from the world of cell phones and tablets.
    Our new UniStream model, the USP-104M10-PLC, supports a range of gestures such as “Swipe” Navigation, Press, Press & Hold,  Double-Tap, Press & Tap and more.  
    Use these to boost your client’s user experience, as well as Two-Hand Operation to increase the operational safety of your end-users. 
    Other important features in this release:
    CANopen: EDS Import, View, Edit, & Ladder Functions UDFB Online: view running values in UDFBs, including local tags MODBUS: Aperiodic/ Periodic Operations per slave, singly or in batches Receive SMS: new Ladder Element, plus Authorized Numbers option SQL: supports MySQL Server and an option to communicate via Port or Instance Name *Cyber-Security Update for FTP & VNC  All applications using FTP or VNC must now use passwords of 6 to 8 characters that contain upper and lower-case letters and digits. Upgrading older applications with passwords that do not meet these criteria will result in a compilation error. Hardware Configuration
    New UniStream: Multi-Touch panel
    Hardware Configuration now offers the USP-104-M10.
    This multi-touch model offers gestures such as Swipe navigation, and enables you to trigger actions via Press, Long Press, Press & Tap, double-tap and more, including Two-Hand operation – a recognized safety measure.
    A single screen can contain elements configured to different triggers. This enables you to add a layer of safety to your screens. For example, you can implement a 2-point press (two-handed operation) that requires the user to press the screen in two distinct locations to activate a task.
    Communications
    CANopen
    EDS Import, View, Edit
    You can now easily import, view, and edit EDS files for CANopen devices, as well as automatically create PDO structs.
    New EDS Ladder functions
    EDS functions enable you to initialize the device with values currently in the EDS file, including values that you edit/enter via UniLogic's EDS utility. In your program, use the In Progress bits to condition the functions.
    Init Node EDS: Initialize a specific node with values edited/entered via the EDS utility.
    Init All Nodes EDS: Initialize all of the CANopen nodes in your project
    Restore Node Defaults: If your CANopen device enables this function, which refers to object 1011 in the node's dictionary, you can use this to reset all of the node's addresses to the manufacturer's default values.
    Heartbeat
    CANopen Properties now include Enable Heartbeat.
    Select this to send a heartbeat from the PLC, according to the time interval specified in the parameter Heartbeat time. The time range is 100 (default) to 100000ms (10 seconds).
    CANopen
    CPU Stop Mode
    Switching to Stop Mode will automatically send a reset command to all nodes.
    MODBUS
     
    New:
    Aperiodic via Ladder,
    Operation Batches
    This version offers the ability to create both Periodic and Aperiodic operations, either one at a time or in batches.
    Most application requirements are met by Periodic operations, which run according to the time intervals you set. However, you now have greater flexibility to:
       Use simple Periodic Operations to read/write data from/to many sensors,
       Use an Aperiodic Operation to write a single setpoint as the result of a run-time condition,
       Use an Aperiodic Operation to turn a group of outputs ON as the result of a run-time condition.
    Note that you can prevent an individual operation from running via a bit in the operation's Active parameter.
    Two new MODBUS Ladder Elements, Aperiodic InDirect and Aperiodic InDirect Group to enable you to trigger a single operation, or a group of operations, via your application.
    Troubleshooting MODBUS
    You now have new MODBUS troubleshooting options:
       A new parameter in the Remote Slave's struct, Drops can help you to troubleshoot projects with a large number of sensors, where the entire queue of operations may not be able to run during the scan.
       A Status field has been added to the MODBUS operation Parameters. This will hold the error codes from the MODBUS protocol itself. Note that it must be reset in your application.
    Other Communications
    SMS:
    Receive SMS + Authorize Numbers
    Use this new Ladder element to receive an SMS message and store it along with its metadata.
    You can also block messages from unauthorized numbers by creating an Authorized Numbers list in Modem Configuration.
    SQL Server
    Now supports MYSQL, and the option to use either Instance Name, or Port.
    Message Composer
    Float values are now supported.
    EthernetIP
    The Scanner Node struct now contains the parameter Connection status. This contains the response status of the connection attempt.
     
    HMI & Web
    HMI:
    FTP Image Widget
    Use this widget to stream files from an IP camera that uploads images to an FTP server. The images are cached in a folder on the SD card. Buttons the user to display images, clear the image cache, or to save the images currently being displayed.
     
    Data Table Widget
    This version brings added widget features. You can now:
            Assign Column Width/Visibility to each individual widget
            Move the focus and highlight a specific row in a data table by writing a value to the property Tag: Selected Row Index
            When a data table is displayed, touch anywhere within a row to select that row
    If you assign a Float value to a column, you can determine the location of the decimal point via by right-clicking the column and assigning it
    HMI and Webpage Editor Redesign
    Both editors have been redesigned for faster, smoother function, and load screens - even screens with many elements -faster than before.
    Other added features include "Snap" behavior:
    Rotation: While rotating, elements will now automatically snap to angles of 90-180° when approaching these angles. To rotate without snapping, first hold down the Alt button on your keypad, then click and begin the rotation.
    Alignment: Now, the active element is marked by handles. When moving elements, a snap to middle line is displayed.
    HMI: Live Trend Widget
    New Live Trend displays a running variable integer value as a curve on a Trend graph. You may define up to 4 curves.
    Unlike Trends derived from Data Sampling:
            Live Trend values are not drawn from a Data Sampler.
            Live Trends do not store any values, log any data, or create any files.
    They are convenient for tasks such as representing temperature values, where only monitoring is needed and logging is not required.
    Web:
    State Machine Button
    State Machine Button is now available for Web pages as well as HMI display; use the value of a register to display variable text within a button, and to drive multiple Actions via the button.
    HMI Element: Password
    A new attribute, Password Length, allows you to enter a number to limit the number of characters, 1-32, that the user can type into the field.
    Asian Language Support
    UniStream now supports the  WenQuanYi Zen Hei font which supports Chinese, simplified/traditional, and also Korean.
    HMI Elements: Digital Schedule & Digital Time
    When checked, a new attribute, Retain AM/PM Space, retains the Placeholder space for AM/PM when H24 (24-hour format) is selected.
     
    Usability Boosters
    UDFBs: Online Values
    View online/debug values within UDFBs, including local tags, along with a counter 'since last update': simply right-click the Call UDFB function in the Ladder, and select Monitor.
    Drag Tags:
    Assign Tags via
    CTRL +
    Drag & Drop
    A new, easy way to assign tags is via CTRL + Drag & Drop.
    Press and hold down the CTRL keyboard key, click a tag, and then drag and drop it to assign a ladder parameter or an HMI option. You can drag tags from the tag database window, or a tag assigned as a ladder parameter or HMI option.
    Formula: Drag from Ladder
    You can now drag any Formula directly from the Solution Explorer, instead of placing a Formula Ladder element via the Ladder Toolbox and linking it to a Formula.
    Start Online after Download
    If you download the same project into UniStream, and are connected to the unit, Online mode now begins automatically.
    You can cancel this behavior via the UniLogic Project tab, by clicking Options and deselecting Start Online after Download.
    Handy "Find"
    ptions
    The Ladder ribbon tab contains two new icons: that enable you to find rungs that are disabled, as well as rungs marked "ToDo:".
    To mark a rung, enter the text "ToDo:" including the colon. (the text itself is not case-sensitive)
    The complete list of features, as well as Bug Fixes may be found at https://unitronicsplc.com/Download/Support/UniLogic/UniLogic_Example_Projects.zip

  9. Cara Bereck Levy
    The R&D gurus at Unitronics headquarters have been hard at work - and so, we present you with:
    >drum roll<    UniLogic 1.18.37  >drum roll<
    Here are a few version highlights:
    SQL Connectivity: Highly convenient and easy to use, UniLogic enables programmers to build SQL Queries and execute them via Ladder functions, including data transfer data between UniStream’s Data Tables and remote SQL databases. 

     
    HMI Custom Controls: A programmer can create an HMI Custom Control, and then drag and drop it from the Solution Explorer, export/import it between projects as .uluce files, or add it to the Library.  Programmers can also define tags that are local to a specific Custom Control; local tags are exported/imported along with the control.
    Other convenient features include an HMI email Configuration Widget, the ability to edit email accounts via UniApps as well as UniApps interface translations for Russian, Polish, and Chinese. To enjoy these as well as other additional features and enhancements, download it from  http://unitronicsplc.com/software-unilogic/

     
    U90 Ladder version, 6.6.24 + New Jazz® 2
    We have also released a new U90 Ladder version, 6.6.24.  This version brings you the option to create a download File (*.d90) without connecting to a physical PLC.
    You can then use the *.d90 file to create zipped project via UniDownloader Designer to be used in Unitronics' UniDownloader software utility (*.udc)
    This version also supports a new Jazz® 2 controller model, a compact, full-function PLC that comprises an excellent built-in I/O configuration, plus an integrated
    text display.  
    The new model, JZ20-UA24, offers 15 inputs:
    9 digital, 1 high-speed counter, 2 inputs that can be wired as analog or digital, and 2 analog inputs that can be wired as thermocouple or PT100 . The output configuration includes 5 relay, 2 transistor, and 2 analog outputs.
     
     
    Like all Jazz® 2 controllers, JZ20-UA24 brings you 48K (virtual) Ladder Logic memory, a built-in mini USB programming port, and is 30 times faster than Unitronics’ standard Jazz® controller, allowing industrial control processes to enjoy more power, speed and functionality at the same low price.  
     
     
     
     
         
     
  10. Cara Bereck Levy
    2015 was a great year for Unitronics.
     
    We introduced products to round out our existing lines: UniStream, Vision, and Samba. We also leveraged the UniStream platform with powerful new features such as EtherNet/IP communications and a full Alarms system.
     
    This was also a great year for the Unitronics community. Check out some cool statistics for 2015:
    We welcomed over 9,000 new members to our user forum… …who made 2,300 posts in 571 467 new topics… …that were viewed 163,419 times!

    In addition to our Unitronics support team gurus, there are some fine forum members who devote a great deal of time to helping others, writing detailed answers to questions and helping people trouble-shoot their applications.
     

    This year, two of our top posters from 2014, Joe Tauser and Flex727, were again top contributors to the Unitronics community.
    The list of top UniGuru MVPs for 2015 are:
    Joe Tauser Barry Lanier (forum name: Flex727) Chris Antcliff (CantCliff) Keith Walker (Walkerok) Ausman

    To show our appreciation, the profiles of our MVPs will be marked with a new icon:
     



     
    Time is precious—to volunteer that time to help other people using your expertise is truly worthy of respect--thanks to you all!
     
    Now, </drum roll/> please join me—for the Unitronics’ 2015 Roundup!
     
    Our Industry Awards
     
    For the fourth year in a row, Unitronics’ products have been honored by Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice awards.
    This year, in the category of Hardware - Integrated HMI controllers, the winner was our UniStream 15.6" HMI panel – big and handsome, with an elegant LED touch-panel offering 1366 x 768 resolution and a 16M (24-bit) color range.
     
    Unitronics Product Launches
    These were released in 2015:
    UniStream: our award-winning 15.6" HMI panel –snap on up to 5 Uni-I/O modules, expand up to 2,048 I/Os, and employ the advanced feature profile to execute highly complex control. We also released 3 Uni-I/O™ modules offering new thermocouple and analog I/O options. Samba 7": with its on-board I/Os and a larger, 7” color touch screen, Samba 7” is proving to be a popular choice for those small machine projects with a critical profit margin. Vision700: this new member of our award-winning Vision “workhorse” series offers a 7” HMI color touch screen. Supports all Vision Snap-in and expansion I/O modules, and all advanced power features. A gateway for MBUS GSM-KIT-17J-3G (Cinterion EHS6T GSM modem)

     

    UniLogic for UniStream: New Development
     
    The feedback from our users tells us that UniLogic is a hit. This year, R&D added a number of strong features. Here’s a sample:
    C Editor, enabling you to write C functions directly in UniLogic Alarms system, designed in accordance with ISA ANSI/ISA-18.2-2009 guidelines EtherNet/IP, scanner and adapter, supporting both implicit/explicit messaging Video Streaming via RTSP SNMPv1/v2/v3 WebServer Gauges Password protection for Ladder Functions, HMI screens, Data Tables and Recipes

     

    Media Highlights for 2015
    Nataly Turgeman, Unitronics’ Global Sales and Marketing manager, was interviewed by PCN (Processing & Control News Europe) regarding the company, our products, and customer care philosophy.
    Read the two-page spread here: http://digital.pcne.eu/digitalMagazine?issue_id=635 UniLogic was reviewed twice in IEN Europe.
    I particularly recommend you check out PLC+HMI Programming Software to Hit Application Requirements
    This article reviews some features added in 2015: HMI + PLC Software Streams Videos

     
    We are proud to continue to bring you Unitronics true All-in-One value: our complete range of automation products and software from the pioneers of the PLC + HMI controller, backed by Unitronics unparalleled sales and tech support.
     
    Enjoy them in the coming year!
  11. Cara Bereck Levy
    Hi people! This is a great application story, because it combines two of my favorite things--the Vision1040 HMI + PLC controller and BEER!

    Twisted Vine Brewery Achieves Consistent Control with Unitronics Vision1040


    Twisted Vine Brewery creates unique, hand-crafted beers in the picturesque hills of St. Charles, Iowa. Beer is a labor of love at this three-man operation, where they are dedicated to both the art and science of brewing. The team at Twisted Vine needed a control system that would enable them to brew with meticulous attention to detail for a consistent, delicious end result.

    In order to produce their great craft beer, the team at Twisted Vine was searching for a robust and reliable controller. They needed to be able to monitor and control the fermentation temperature, to implement tools like the timers for tracking hop additions, and to monitors trends and outputs remotely. They also wanted a control system that would expand easily as their business grows.
    Of course, there were some limiting concerns. Everybody at Twisted Vine was a first time PLC user, so they needed a controller that was easy to learn and to configure. They also wanted a feature-rich PLC and HMI that would provide a lot of functionality on a tight budget, while looking great when customers toured the facility.
    Most importantly, as space in the brewery is very limited, the PLC would have to be mounted next to the mash tun. This mash tun is kept at 150 degrees Fahrenheit during the brewing process; at times the mash is rinsed in water as hot as 170 degrees Fahrenheit. These conditions would require a PLC robust enough to be exposed to high temperatures and large amounts of steam and condensation without failing.
    The Unitronics Vision1040™, paired with a V200-18-E3XB snap-in I/O module, was able to accommodate all these requirements with ease. The Vision1040 controls a rotary phase converter, which powers a three-phase chiller, glycol pump and the glycol valves on the jacketed fermentation and conditioning tanks. Using this system, the Twisted Vine team can also check temperature trends remotely, turning temperature loops on and off as needed from anywhere with internet access. Additionally, with a NEMA4X/IP65 environment rating, the Vision1040™ was able to withstand the hot steamy conditions.
    Not only did Unitronics provide a powerful PLC, according to co-owner Steven Becker, the all-in-one design and complimentary, single-environment software made the Vision1040 an intuitive and cost-effective choice for their operations. “The free software and many online tutorials made it easy to learn and it was a low cost and powerful solution,” explains Becker.
    In fact, Twisted Vine Brewery is already planning to expand their control system. They are introducing water-use monitoring and valve control to control the amount of water in their mash, which will improve the consistency of the product and free up their attention from watching the water meter to more productive tasks.
    Becker says, “my experience with Unitronics products has enabled me to produce systems that are more productive and user friendly … This system has kept our products at the optimum temperature while keeping our development and operating cost at their lowest.”
    For more information on Twisted Vine Brewery, visit:
    http://www.twistedvinebrewery.com/
    http://madisoncountywinery.com/
    For more Unitronics case studies, visit:
    http://www.unitronics.com/plc-hmi/application-stories-videos
  12. Cara Bereck Levy
    We've had some new Application Stories submitted recently. I'm posting two stories and a video here--visit our site to see them all!
    If you are interested in submitting your story, contact us at Usa.sales@unitronics.com for details.
    Story 1 - Waterplay® Aquatic Play Pad Uses V130-33-R34 to Bring New Life to Communities
    Waterplay® Solutions Corp. provides premium aquatic recreational features world-wide. They needed a PLC with a built in HMI that could meet their specific programming and space requirements.
    Unitronics' V130-33-R34 was the perfect solution to their specific needs.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    With thousands of installations world-wide, Waterplay® Solutions Corp. has provided their customers premium aquatic recreational features since 1987. Offering a variety of innovative products that are designed to turn any space into an exciting attraction, Waterplay® responds directly to their customer needs; including aquatic play features, slide activity centers, waterslides urban water features, and water management solutions.
    With one particular project Waterplay® was working on in Texas, they had an aquatic play pad that had a very small area where a PLC controller could be placed. In their existing line of controllers they were using at the time, they specifically needed a digital output to control a relay, and the particular manufacture they were using did not have a PLC with high enough rated built in relays to operate the valves that they used. As a result, they were on the search for a PLC with an integrated HMI. The controller need the following operations either built in or programmable to meet their requirements:
    Programming requirements:
    · Start/stop time for the week
    · To be able to have the system on/off for each day of the week
    · Receive an input from the field to start a sequence
    · Log number of activations/per day and downloadable
    · Automatically open/close each output
    · To have internal relays that can operate a solenoid valve that requires 0.41 amps of in rush current (0.25 amps holding)
    · Relatively easy to program with minimal cost for software
    · Field reprogrammable with a flash card
    Physical requirements:
    · To be able to fit in a 6 x 10 inch space
    · Multi line graphic interface
    · Expandable without taking up additional space, or using minimal additional space.
    "The Unitronics V130-33-R34 was able to reach these requirements and more." Said Carney Neave of Waterplay® Solutions Corp. "The controller was very easy to program and customize for our application. The staff and tech support of Unitronics are very efficient and knowledgeable”
    Unitronics is proud to be a part of Waterplay's role in bringing the joy of water to people and communities. "We do more than build aquatic play features. We’ve helped turn crime-ridden downtown parks into family attractions." Says Neaves. "We’ve given new life to abandoned community facilities, bringing kids back to play in them. We work with you to create environments that promote exploration and discovery, fostering imaginative, interactive play."
    Story 2 - MSI Tec Uses Vision570™ to Control the City of Tucson's Natural Gas Engine Well Pumps
    MSI Tec needed to replace inadequate controllers for the City of Tucson's natural gas engine well pumps. Their main requirements were: Improved screen readability, remote connection to the customer's SCADA system, historical data availability, and an easy to use interface.
    Unitronics Vision570™ was chosen and met each of their requirements and more.


    Unitronics distributor, MSI Tec, was put to the task of designing a panel to control natural gas engines at the City of Tucson’s (population >500,000) well pumps. The control panels would need to be installed at 43 sites around the city. The cost per engine and shaft can be greater than $400,000. Rapid changes in RPM can cause a large column of water to shift up and down quickly and become a very expensive jackhammer, so the importance of a robust and reliable controller for these control panels was a necessity. The previous controllers that were used had screens that became increasingly difficult to read after a couple of years, which is why they needed to be replaced with a controller that had improved readability. Other necessary requirements were the ability to remotely connect to the customer's SCADA system, historical data availability- to diagnose possible causes of any issues that may arise- and an easy to use interface.
    "The Vision570™ was selected because of its ideal size, color touch screen, and terrific feature set for the price." Said Matthew Cronin of MSI Tec. The Vision570™s are mounted in un-insulated panels outdoors.
    Tucson’s high temperature frequently climbs above 110 degrees (the record is 117 degrees), and the low often drops below freezing (the record low is 6 degrees). In the three years the panels have been installed, there have been over 250 days with the temperature above 100 degrees. Meanwhile, humidity ranges from an average low of 5% in June to an average high of 75% in July. The high quality of Unitronic's touch screens allowed them to be resilient to the temperature and sun exposure. "The temperature was so hot that we couldn’t keep our computers running for more than 10 minutes…in the shade. In order to update the stations, we used cars with air-conditioned seats. We had to leave the cars running the entire day to keep the air and the seats cool enough for the laptops to not lock up. Even if there were multiple PLCs at a single station, we still had to go put the laptops in the car for a few minutes between each code download to keep the laptops running. Despite this excessive heat, the Unitronics kept running without a problem. And they continue to do so to this day.” said Cronin.
    Using Unitronics’ Modbus TCP functionality and a cell modem, Tucson Water’s SCADA system is able to communicate with each well site individually. They are also able to use the V570's SD card functions to write data out every 1-120 minutes depending on user settings- which aids in problem diagnosis. The Unitronics V570 also provides an elegant and reliable 5.7” touch screen for a comparable price to the customer's previous 2-line display system. Utilization of the touch screen system allowed for significantly easier interfacing.
    “After the systems were all installed, an upgrade was requested. They systems are not networked, so this required an onsite code change to approximately 40 stations…in July. Interesting hurdles were experienced during this upgrade, but none of them were because of the Unitronics." Said Cronin. "The Vision570 was the most cost effective solution for this application. By combining low cost I/O, communications, PLC functionality, and an HMI in a single package, Unitronics delivered more capability for less money. Because Unitronics is an all-in-one solution, programming is very rapid because no time is spent trying to get the HMI to “talk” to the PLC. This system required a diverse combination of analog inputs and outputs, digital inputs and outputs, and high speed pulse outputs. Unitronics had a flexible and affordable set of I/O cards to accomplish this."
    Video --This very cool app story features the SABCO Commercial & Home Beer Brewery

  13. Cara Bereck Levy
    This past year, 2014, was a stellar year for Unitronics. Not only did we introduce products to round out existing lines, we launched a brand-new line of PLC + HMI touch-screen controllers, Samba.
    Samba, with its beautiful display, on-board I/Os , fine feature range, and highly competitive price was snapped up by small machine manufacturers, showing impressive sales volumes from day 1.
    In addition to the great market response, our Samba was nominated for—and won—the prestigious Engineers’ Choice award.
    This was also a great year for the Unitronics community. Check out some cool statistics for 2014:
    - We welcomed 5,713 new members to our user forum…
    -…who made 2,113 posts in 467 new topics…
    - …that were viewed 132,568 times!
    In addition to our Unitronics support team staff, there are some fine forum members who devote a great deal of time to helping others, writing detailed answers to questions and helping people trouble-shoot their applications.
    Our top UniGuru MVPs for 2014 are:
    Joe Tauser
    Simon Webb
    Barry Lanier (forum name: Flex727)
    Ober Yela (forum name: HighTech)
    In addition to his activity on the forum, Ober has posted a number of videos featuring Unitronics products—check them out on his channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/oberyela/videos

    To show our appreciation, the profiles of our MVPs will be marked with a new icon:

    It is no small thing, when time is your most valuable commodity, to use that time to help other people benefit from your expertise – kudos to you all!
    Okay—without further ado, please join me—here it is, the Unitronics’ 2014 Roundup!
    Our Industry Awards
    I am proud to note that this is the third year in a row that Unitronics’ products were honored to receive a Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice award—and this year, we won in one category, and received an honorable mention in another!

    Samba, All in One PLC + HMI received the Engineers’ Choice Award in the category: Hardware—Integrated HMI Controllers.
    UniLogic Studio, the unified environment for UniStream hardware and communication configuration, Ladder, and HMI applications, received an Honorable Mention in the category: Software — HMI.

    Unitronics Product Launches
    Samba, available in 3.5, 4.3, and 7”, was not the only new product line launched in 2014.
    Vision™: our award-winning series of powerful PLC + Color-touch HMI controllers, welcomed additional offerings:
    Vision430™, a new line comprising a beautiful LED 4.3” wide graphic touch-screen.
    Currently available in 9 models, the V430 offers an expandable I/O configuration with a broad range of digital, analog, high-speed, and temperature I/Os, USB programming and serial ports, and a CANbus or Ethernet port option.
    Vision1210™ - Black, an elegant, big-screen model with a flat, black fascia and an NEMA4X/IP66/IP65 rating—excellent for applications that require a powerful, flexible controller with a big screen that matches the spray & wipe requirements of the food and beverage industry.
    The EXF-RC15 -a stand- alone, remote I/O Module that brings you high-Speed I/O plus PWM/PTO.

    The UniStream™ platform is our completely modular PLC + HMI controller for large-scale machine applications. This 2014 Engineers’ Choice award winner also broadened its range:
    UniStream 15.6" HMI panel – big and elegant, this LED touch-panel gives you 1366 x 768 resolution and a 16M (24-bit) color range.
    You can snap up to 5 Uni-I/O modules onto the back of the panel, integrate up to 2048 local & remote I/Os – and communicate with third-party devices via a broad range of CANbus and IP protocols, including EtherNet/IP.
    Uni-I/O™ modules can be snapped to a panel or hooked up via Expansion adapters. New modules include a thermocouple module and new analog options, plus a new line of space-saving, densely-populated ‘wide’ I/Os.
    Expansion Adapters are now available in more lengths, from: 125cm up to 3000cm.

    Our Jazz line is the PLC + textual HMI + onboard I/Os that replaces “smart relays” with a real PLC—for the same low price. Two new models were launched in 2014:
    JZ20-T10: 6 Digital Inputs, 4 Transistor Outputs
    JZ20-T18: 6 Digital, 2 Analog/Digital, 2 Analog Inputs, 8 Transistor Outputs

    Other products released to market are compatible with all of our PLC + HMI controllers:
    GSM/GPRS modem
    BACnet to MODBUS Gateway

    More than ever, Unitronics offers you true All-in-One value: a complete range of automation products and software from the pioneers of the PLC + HMI controller, backed by Unitronics unparalleled sales and tech support.
    Enjoy them in the coming year!
  14. Cara Bereck Levy
    Unitronics Distributors Conferences: Networking for Mutual Benefit in the Industrial Automation Sector
    This year, the Unitronics’ Marketing Department is holding two separate conferences, one for our global partners and another for Unitronics USA. Mixing business with pleasure, swapping stories from the field and technical tips, conferences are fun—and of great practical benefit for all.
    The first, the Unitronics’ Global Distributors Conference was a resounding success. It was held in Paris, France, on March 27-29 2012, at the Circus Hotel in Euro Disney. It was attended by representatives from 55 countries hailing from every continent except Antarctica.

    Conference Attendees: Group Picture


    The event kicked off with Unitronics’ Vice President Mr. Amit Harari, the Head of the Products Division, reporting on the current strong standing of the company, highlighting the robust sales trends of the flagship automation product lines: Vision, M90, and Jazz PLC controllers.
    Next, Unitronics’ Product Manager Mr. Stoller opened the curtains on new hardware development, including new PLC controllers, I/O modules, and related devices. The Evolution of the Automation Software Revolution was presented by R&D Software Manager, Mr. Benny Magrafta. Mr. Emil Melamed, Technical Support Manager, gave an excellent summary of continuing development of the Vision and Jazz PLC controllers. Driving Sales via Unitronics Software Utilities was expertly presented by Support specialist Mr. Ofir Levi.
    Unitronics’ Global Sales and Marketing Manager, Mrs. Nataly Turgeman, spoke on the different avenues of strong support that the Unitronics’ marketing team can give to its distributors and sales representatives.
    Distributors gave presentations showing how they use various aspects of Unitronics’ PLC controllers to drive sales, especially in niche automation markets. In order of presentation, these were:
    · Mr. Laurent Blaess General Manager - PL Systems, France, gave the first presentation “How to Become a Major Player in Your Market”. Later in the conference, he also spoke on Effective Methods of Dealing with Market Competition.
    · Mr. Shrenik Shah, Technical Director - RajDeep Automation Pvt Ltd., India
    Building and Managing an Effective Sub-Distributor Network – as a tool for growth.
    · Mr. Rafal Tutaj, Department Director - Elmark Automatyka, Poland
    How to Create Unitronics Opportunities in Spite of Economic Slowdown
    · Marcelo Finguerman, Managing Director - Dakol Instrumentos e Sistemas Ltda, Brazil
    V1040 and V1210 Potential Customers and Success Stories
    · Valentin Andronache, SCADA Department Manager - SYSCOM 18 SRL, Romania
    Market Segments - Water & Waste Water
    · Mr. Fabio Melegazzi, Unitronics' Products Manager – Telestar, Italy
    Market Segments - Food Industry
    · Erik Seijner, Product Manager - Isotron Systems, The Netherlands
    Success Stories and Unique Projects: Why and How Do We Win?
    · Filip Zmrzlikar Assistant director - Tipteh d.o.o., Slovenia
    Market Segments - Temperature Control
    · Mr. Valentin Terentjev Sales Chief Automation Sales Division – Klinkmann, Russia
    Market Segments - Energy Sector Focus on Communication
    Networking, sharing knowledge, and becoming personally acquainted with our business partners, strengthens the partnership between Unitronics and our distributors. The positive energy that was generated by this conference will help us all to meet our common goals in the competitive arena of PLC automation control.
    After the success of this conference, ably organized by Ms. Avivit Barkan, the Unitronics Marketing Department is eagerly anticipating the fall conference in the USA.

    Unitronics Staff

  15. Cara Bereck Levy
    All-in-One HMI + PLC programming software, UniLogic™ version 1.12.20, introduces features and enhancements that extend the application reach of UniStream™, Unitronics’ award-winning All-in-One HMI + PLC controller.
    Machine builders can now display streaming video via an Ethernet networked camera using the RTSP Real Time Streaming Protocol, enabling users to easily integrate a network camera and display its video stream output on the elegant UniStream HMI panel.


    SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) now enhances UniStream’s broad communication capabilities. UniStream can function as an SNMP Agent and communicate with an SNMP server. In addition, the Ladder Toolbox function SNMP Trap Send, enables UniStream to send SNMP Trap messages to an SNMP server. UniStream supports SNMP Versions 1, 2, and 3.
    UniLogic’s Webserver’s Drag & Drop editor has added beautifully polished Linear and Circular Gauge widgets, to display running application values for remote users via Internet browser.


    An enhancement of HMI action elements enables programmers to raise popup message boxes when these elements are touched; the message can ask the user a question, give instructions and warnings, and drive actions via buttons.


    This version also supports new hardware: a new Uni-I/O™ analog module comprising 8 13-bit analog input channels; with input ranges of 0-10v, 0-20mA and 4-20mA, and a new 3G modem, the Cinterion EHS6T.
    A novel feature launched with this version, Hardware Configuration profiles, can save considerable programming. These enable a controller to run an application if it has a physical I/O configuration that is different from the full I/O Configuration in the project. The application will run according to the selected profile without error--even if the application uses data tags of I/Os that belong to the full I/O configuration, but that are not part of the selected profile. This feature can save time for programmers who may need to run the same application in systems containing different I/O and COM module configuration.
    UniLogic 1.12.20 contains a number of additional features and enhancements. The software and complete feature list is available for free download at http://www.unitronics.com/support/downloads
  16. Cara Bereck Levy
    Hi guys!
    We know that people sometimes use the forum to find Unitronics programmers, and that programmers have on occasion contacted members who they believe may require automation project services.
    This is why we have added a new section to the forum: the Job Board. We hope this will make it easier for people within the Unitronics Community to locate each other.
    The Job Board is located here:
    http://forum.unitronics.com/index.php?/forum/71-job-board/
    Please note:
    **Disclaimer: Unitronics bears no responsibility. This is just a place for people to find each other**
    Let me take this opportunity to wish all of you Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, general Happy Holidays and good cheer to all!


  17. Cara Bereck Levy
    Oil recycling, textiles, retrofits in the printing and packaging industries - here are some of the latest application stories submitted by Unitronics customers .
    Read, watch, and enjoy!
    Company: Aaron Oil Company Inc., USA
    Sector: Oil Recycling and Petroleum-Based Hydrocarbon Reclamation
    PLC + HMI Controller: Vision560™ + V200-18-E6B Snap-on I/O module
    Aaron Oil needed to track the amounts—and analyze the type—of liquid pumped through a collection truck during loading.
    They also needed to communicate the analyzed data in real-time to a central office for accounting purposes.
    An additional requirement was the ability to communicate with a GPS system in order to dispatch and track drivers.
    Read the whole story here.
    Watch
    .
    Company: Imapsa Automation, Guatemala & Honduras
    Sector: Packaging
    PLC + HMI Controller: Samba, model SM35-J-T20
    Imapsa was tasked with modernizing a rice packaging system. This particular machine had space limitation; as a company dedicated to providing its customers with beautiful HMI applications, Imapsa selected the palm-sized Samba™, which comprises a high-quality color touchscreen . Since speed was an application requirement, the SM35-J-T20 with its high-speed encoder inputs was an excellent fit.
    Read the whole story here.
    Watch
    .
    Company: B3Servis d.o.o, Slovenia
    Sector: Printing
    PLC + HMI Controller: Vision570™
    This company, which deals with bookbinding machines, had outdated machines that were only capable of reading 1-dimensional barcodes of up to 40 characters. These needed to be updated to support extended 2-dimensional barcodes. They needed a compact PLC with a color touchscreen able to support serial communications and Ethernet UDP—that could also log orders, production data, and generate reports. V570™ fit the bill.
    Read the whole story here.
    Watch
    .
    Company: Turkmenistan Aşgabat Dokuma Toplumu (TDT), Turkey
    Sector: Textiles
    PLC + HMI Controller: Vision130™, model V130-33-TR20
    Turkmenistan Aşgabat Dokuma Toplumu (TDT) plant comprises machines that process and size yarn preparatory to weaving, and that weave yarn into cloth for home products. Here, the application need was to collect process data and track operator efficiency, as well as to log and report alarms relating to yarn ruptures that require stopping the machine.
    All machines are monitored by SCADA.
    Read the whole story here.

  18. Cara Bereck Levy
    Hello everybody!
    In addition to the UniStream products I blogged about recently, there are other great, new products now available from your local Unitronics' distributor.
    A picture paints a thousand words--so, look below
    Remember that you will need to update your software and firmware in order to support these powerful additions to your application range.
    New Product List
    UIS-08TC: 8 Thermocouple inputs, standard size Uni-I/O Module
    ​Wide Uni-I/O modules
    - UID-W1616T - 6 isolated pnp/npn digital inputs, 16 isolated relay outputs
    - UID-W1616R offers 16 isolated pnp/npn inputs, and 16 isolated relay outputs.
    USP-156-B10 - a striking new BIG 15.6” UniStream HMI panel
    Samba - now with a gorgeous 4.3" color touchscreen plus a USB programming port
    - SM43-J-T20 with 10 Digital Inputs, 2 Digital /Analog*, 8 Transistor Outputs
    - SM43-J-R20 with 10 Digital Inputs, 2 Digital /Analog, 8 Relay Outputs
    GPRS/GSM modem kit GSM-16J
    BACnet to MODBUS gateway GW-BAC1
    And last, but not least, a sexy new black V1210V, model 1210-T20BJ, to awe your clients

    Enjoy!


  19. Cara Bereck Levy
    Here is a quick recap of the latest and greatest updates to our UniStream controller line.
    We’ve rounded out the HMI panel offerings with a big, beautiful 15.6” screen, added ‘wide’ I/O modules, and boosted your potential application range with a new thermocouple I/O module.
    There are some incredibly cool features now available: a powerful, embedded Web Server together with a drag & drop web page editor, CAN Layer 2, UniCAN, a built-in CANbus sniffer, and a UniBACnet Configurator.
    UniLogic software is now up to 1.9.19, paired with the UniStream OS version 1.9.6.
    You can read more below – or click over to the Downloads page. To access the complete Version Changes document, click here.
    Hardware
    USP-156-B10: 15.6” HMI panel
    This quality HMI panel measures 15.6”. In terms of I/O and COM module capacity, it is identical to the UniStream 10.4”.


    “Wide” Uni-I/O™
    This is a line of I/O modules that are compatible with the UniStream™ control platform. ‘Wide’ modules are 1.5 times as wide as standard Uni-I/O™ modules, and comprise more I/O points in less space. Up to two wide I/Os may be snapped onto the back of the UniStream 7”.

    Standard-sized I/Os and Wide I/Os may all be included in a single configuration.
    There are currently two modules available:
    UID-W1616T - 6 isolated pnp/npn digital inputs, 16 isolated relay outputs
    UID-W1616R offers 16 isolated pnp/npn inputs, and 16 isolated relay outputs.

    UIS-08TC Temperature I/O Module
    This standard-sized Uni-I/O™ module provides 8 thermocouple inputs supporting the following input types and ranges: J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N, C, and Voltage

    Software
    Embedded Web Server + Web Page Editor
    The powerful, built-in Web Server enables multiple users to simultaneously access webpages within a UniStream controller. Web page access may be controlled by password, permitting users to view and/or edit data via any browser and from any smart phone or tablet.


    Designing web pages in the editor is as easy as building HMI pages, and requires no knowledge of HTML. The programmer drags and drops elements from the Toolbox onto the web page, and customizes them via the element properties.
    The drag & drop interface has the same look-and-feel as the HMI Editor.


    CAN Layer 2 Ladder Functions
    The CAN Layer 2 functions enable you to support any CANbus protocol, according to the CANbus V2.0 standard.
    A UniStream controller can both send and receive standard messages with 11-bit identifiers, as well as extended messages with 29-bit identifiers
    UniCAN
    UniCAN, Unitronics' proprietary CANbus protocol, enables fast data communications.Via UniCAN, a Unitronics' PLC can exchange data with up to 60 other networked PLCs.
    UniCAN Communications are determined by configuration rather than programming. Note that UniCAN also enables easy data transfer between UniStream and Vision controllers.
    CANbus Sniffer
    The embedded CANbus Sniffer enables you to easily monitor CANbus communications and boosts your troubleshooting capabilities.
    UniBACnet Configurator
    UniStream controllers now support a BACnet to MODBUS Gateway device, available as GW-BAC1.
    Use the UniBACnet Configurator, located under the new Tools tab on the UniLogic ribbon, to create a configuration file for the BACnet to MODBUS Gateway. Download this file to the GW-BAC1 in order to set up communications between a UniStream controller and BACnet slave devices.
  20. Cara Bereck Levy
    I am proud to report that our new Samba controller was reviewed in the CAN Newsletter!!!!
    Here is the article:
    http://www.can-newsletter.org/hardware/host-interfaces/140617_palm-sized-all-in-one-device_unitronics/
    Palm-sized all-in-one device
    Published 2014-06-17
    The Samba 3,5-inch touchscreen with an integrated programmable logic controller (PLC) by Unitronics (Israel) supports CANopen and J1939. It measures 109 mm x 114,1 mm x 59,6 mm and weighs 205 g.
    The all-in-one device supports up to 24 user-designed screens and up to 40 images per application.
    The integrated PLC offers two auto-tuned PID loops, time-based RTC control, data-logging, pre-programmed recipes, etc. The internal memory provides 512 KiB for application programs and additional 512 KiB for fonts as well as 512 KiB for images. The all-in-one device features also local analog and digital I/O ports. This includes 10 digital inputs and eight transistor outputs as well as two analog ports.
    The housing is IP65/66-rated. According to the manufacturer, the panel-mountable device is suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications, especially wherever spray/wipe down requirements apply. Besides the CAN connectivity, the PLC/HMI can be equipped optionally with an EIA-232, an EIA-485 and an Ethernet port. Additionally, it supports GRPS/GSM.
    The 24-VDC powered device comes with Visilogic software supporting the configuration of communication interfaces, allowing ladder logic programming and HMI designs. This also includes a library of images and utility software for remote PC access and data support.


  21. Cara Bereck Levy
    Samba™ is an all-in-one palm-sized HMI + PLC + onboard I/Os.
    As a trendsetter in the field of all-in-one PLC + HMI integrated controllers, Unitronics has specifically developed Samba for applications that require PLC control, but that are limited by budget to simple text displays.
    System integrators and OEMs often develop applications that require PLC control, but that settle on simple text displays due to limited budget.
    Samba's beautiful HMI 3.5” QVGA 16-bit touchscreen enables data entry and display of variable data, including color Trend graphs and alarm screens. The HMI supports 24 user-designed screens, and up to 40 images per application.
    The integrated PLC controller offers a broad range of features including 2 auto-tuned PID loops, time-based RTC control, datalogging, recipes and more. Internal memory holds 0.5 MB of application logic, plus 512K for fonts and 0.5 MB for images.
    Onboard I/Os offer digital, analog, and high-speed functionality.
    The flat fascia and IP66/IP65/NEMA4X rating makes Samba an excellent fit for the food & pharmaceutical industries--ideal wherever spray/wipe down requirements apply.
    Samba offers a built-in RS232 port. You can add an additional RS485 serial, Ethernet, or CANbus port. Samba supports GPRS/GSM, email, SMS, as well as industrial TCP/IP protocols, MODBUS, DF1 slave, CANopen, J1939 and more—and it may be adapted to any 3rd-party protocol.

    Unitronics free VisiLogic software provides a single simple environment for hardware and communications configuration, Ladder application development, and HMI design, including a free library of industrial images. Free utilities support remote PC access and data export. Unitronics offers free technical support for all of their products, and an active user forum.
    Samba offers all the functionality system integrators need for small applications, reduces space requirements, wiring, and eliminates the need to set up Panel-PLC communication—resulting in an excellent price/performance ratio.
    For more information, go to: http://www.unitronics.com/plc-hmi/samba
  22. Cara Bereck Levy
    I've got some great news to share with you!
    Unitronics is proud to announce that UniStream has been nominated in Control Engineering's Engineer's Choice awards, in the category of Hardware: Integrated HMI Controllers.
    The Engineers' Choice Awards includes 29 categories of control, instrumentation, and automation products, revealing the best as chosen by Control Engineering's print and digital audience.
    If you would like to cast your vote, go to:
    http://ocreg.controleng.com/onecount/flexreg/displayform.cgi?g=0&form=369
    We will be running another UniLogic training webinar, this time on the subject of Timers and Actions.
    This free webinar will be held on November 13th.
    Click below to register:
    https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/269067086
    On another note, Unitronics Support is setting up training schedules for the US, 2014. We have a proposed list of cities and would like to offer you the opportunity to let us know where you would like to see training held:
    http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e8gefzt7hnhg154m/a013lhnva2ir8/questions
    Finally, I'd like to invite you to join us on our Facebook page--it's a great way to keep updated with current Unitronics news
    http://www.facebook.com/UnitronicsUSA
    Have a good week--may all your programs be perfect :-)
  24. Cara Bereck Levy
    Cast your ballot! Unitronics has been nominated for Automation World's 2013 Leadership in Automation Program. This allows automation professionals to recognize innovation, leadership and excellence among suppliers of automation software, technology and products.
    Voting is Easy: Please take a moment to help us win!
    Click here to vote:
    http://www.automationworld.com/leadership/leadership/profiles/unitronics-inc?utm_source=leadership_magnet&utm_medium=referral
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