Lantronix supplies GE Fanuc with technology for Ethernet connectivity to plant floor PLCs
GE Fanuc's new VersaMax SE, developed with Lantronix CoBox DR1 Device Server Technology, allows GE Fanuc customers to access data and manage programming changes to plant floor equipment in real time from any computer linked to an Ethernet network.
According to the company, network-connected devices save network administrators time by sending information to centralized locations, eliminating the need to travel to each remote device to retrieve data.
GE Fanuc (Charlottesville, VA) approached Lantronix as a direct response to its customers' needs for an Ethernet-based system since many companies are moving away from proprietary networks. Using Lantronix's Device Server Technology, GE Fanuc was able to bring this solution to customers rapidly, while focusing on their core automation business initiatives.
In addition, Lantronix's firmware enables serial to Ethernet communications through GE's networking protocol over a standard Ethernet cable. GE Fanuc's VersaMax SE enables users to increase network interoperability by offering industry standard Ethernet connectivity.
"GE Fanuc's partnership with Lantronix adds a new dimension to the services we offer our customers," says Bill Black, business leader for GE Fanuc's Micro, Nano, and OCS product lines.
Lantronix's partnership with GE Fanuc will extend the range of Device Server applications in various automation applications, such as packaging machines, wastewater flow control, power generator systems, assembly machines, and SCADA applications to remotely monitoring and control activities. Device Servers allow customers to access data and make programming changes remotely through an Internet browser or a specifically configured operating system.
"Partnering with GE Fanuc demonstrates Lantronix's commitment to serving and adapting our technologies in the automation market," says Mark Fondl, VP of Lantronix's Automation Business Unit. "Our enabling technologies will certainly enhance the capabilities of communication and provide a vital link from installed systems to the Front Office."
Edited by Jim Lardear
Managing Editor, PlantAutomation.com