Variable Frequency Drives Provide Ethernet Connectivity

Mitsubishi Electric Automation has introduced Ethernet-connected versions of its FR-A800 and FR-F800 variable frequency drives (VFDs) enabling direct connection to automation equipment and plant information management systems.

These VFDs can be used in process control applications, multiple pump control systems and in networks that require continuous monitoring, such as the measurement of energy consumption.

The FR-A800-E and FR-F800-E inverters can be easily connected to an MES network and provide the ability to exchange data in either direction. They can act as an interconnected VFD “team,” without referring to a separate controller by entering PLC programming directly into the drives. They can operate simultaneously within an Ethernet environment and virtually any other automation network, forming a gateway between a plant’s other automation equipment. The inverters also support CC-Link IE Field and Modbus/TCP Ethernet protocols, and can automatically identify all the drives on a network using standard programming software. This can also be done remotely, reducing the need for site visits for commissioning.