Our Austrian branch have moved location!

Wussten Sie, dass Routeco eine Niederlassung in Österreich hat?

The team at Routeco GesmbH moved address on the 26th November 2012.

Routeco GesmbH has continued to grow and is successfully positioned on the Austrian market. The success lies in the support of well-known companies in the optimisation of procurement processes combined with technical expertise in industrial and process automation.

After 14 years in Linz, Routeco GesmbH's expansion now requires more space for the increase amount of assets and number of employees and they have moved to specially built offices in Traun for current and future requirements. Routeco GesmbH clients will continue to receive the professional and efficient handling of products and solutions for their industrial applications.

The new address is:

Routeco GesmbH
Egger-Lienz-Straße 10
A-4050 Traun
Tel: 43 7229/64 2 66-0
Fax: 43 7229/64 2 66-51

The e-mail and web addresses remain unchanged:
linz@routeco.com
www.routeco.at

Christmas Opening Hours

The Christmas holidays are finally upon us, so here is a quick reminder of our opening hours over the festive period.

25th December                         Christmas Day          Closed
26th December                         Boxing Day               Closed
27th, 28th, 31st December                                         9am - 5pm
1st January                               New Years Day        Closed

Normal hours will resume from 2nd January 2013
 

Outside of normal hours and during the closed periods, we will be running an emergency ‘out of hours’ service. A call out charge of £100 will apply.

Sales can be contacted on 0370 607 1000 during this time.

From all the staff at Routeco, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Panasonic Toughbooks put to the test

Looking for a laptop that will withstand drops, dust and spills? Need a laptop to withstand the harshest of environments? Then Panasonic Toughbooks are ideal for you!

With a variety of laptops, tablets and handheld devices, these Toughbooks allow you to work anywhere at anytime. The rugged Toughbooks can withstand situations that would damage conventional computers.

Check out this video to see just how much these laptops can endure.

For more information please contact ITsales@routeco.com or 01908 359293

Profibus PA Linking Devices - A fully integrated, user friendly solution

The 1788-EN2PAR and 1788-CN2PAR provide a fast, fully integrated and easy-to-use solution for adding profibus PA to any Logix platform. The modules provide a direct link from Ethernet/IP and ControlNet respectively, to the Profibus PA device level protocol without a Profibus DP layer.

Integration into the RSLogix 5000 is made seamless by the module's Add-On-Profile which provides an intuitive environment for the configuration of the field device network. Devices can also be quickly configured using the auto configure tool.

Key Features:

• Fully integrated solution through the PlantPAx process automation system
• No external configuration software
• Configurations and Diagnostics in Add-On-Profile
• Convenient web interface
• Add devices whilst online
• Auto device discovery and configuration
• Supports 24 devices on a single segment
• 8 input and 8 output process variables per field
• Built-in power conditions and protection provide on two process variable ports supply 500mA each
• DTM available for asset

The Add-On-Profile captures all Process Variables in Engineering units and provides Process Variables status data and extended device diagnostics.

There are 5 redundancy options available:

• Redundant linking devices
• Redundant PA media
• Redundant ControlNet media
• Redundant Controllers
• EtherNet/IP Device Level Ring

These linking devices offer premier integration into the PlantPAx/Logix architecture. They have an add-on profile that makes them very easy to configure, built-in power conditioning and the option for redundant configuration.

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Guernsey goes wireless with ProSoft RadioLinx

The Island of Guernsey goes wireless for water management with ProSoft Technology's RadioLinx.
 
The water management is managed by Guernsey Water, who wanted to integrate 40 facilities into a single communication network. The ProSoft Technology Solution, based on the IEEE 802.11n Standard, proved to be a reliable, easy to integrate, and cost-effective solution.

To read the case study click here

Simplify your sensor setup with the 42JT VisiSight

The 42JT VisiSight models add flexibility by offering a tactile pushbutton and remote teaching that simplifies sensitivity and parameter setup. This makes the 42JT VisiSight a great solution for packaging and assembly applications that require some configuration in order to operate at optimal conditions.

Key Features:

• Class 1 "Eye Safe" red laser beam (for small object and contrast detection) and visible LED models
• Teach pushbuttons for sensitivity and L.O/D.O selection
• IP69K enclosure rating and ECOLAB certified to withstand food industry cleaning chemicals
• Laser etched markings for durability.

The 42JT offers unique "Auto PNP/NPN" output that continuously monitors how the load is connected and automatically configures the output for proper operation and output LED to indicate correct output status so only one part number is needed.

The available models are:

• Polarised Retroreflective
• Standard Diffuse
• Adjustable Background Suppression
• Transmitted Beam
• Clear Object
• Colour Mark Detection

Data Sheet

42JT

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Did you know Routeco offer Atex solutions?

Whether you operate within the hazardous area environment every day or only occasionally…Whether your concern is from a plant management, safety or engineering perspective…or simply looking for an Atex solution…

…Were you aware that Routeco can offer this and much more?

By understanding concepts such as Intrinsic Safety, Explosion Proof, Flameproof, Increased Safety, Purged / Pressurised, Non sparking, Restricted Breathing and Energy Limitation; we are able to offer the best commercial and technical solutions for both gas and dust applications.

Working with Global and Local product Partners, we aim to provide the best technical and commercial solutions to meet your needs.

By utilising our national franchises such as CEAG, MTL, MEDC and Weidmuller, along with many other specialist suppliers, we are able to offer and support everything from standard products to bespoke engineered solutions. Also, if you are unsure of the certification requirements or what protection concept can be used, we are on hand to advise.

Please be assured that as part of Routeco’s overall package of Value-Add support services, we are committed to work alongside you, understanding the exact requirements of the project and advising on the best solution.

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Find out more about the Rockwell Automation Encompass Partners

To be the best in your industry, you need to align yourself with companies that are the best in their industries. Through the Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner program, Rockwell’s third-party product referencing program, you can quickly locate the products that best solve your application challenges. Each partner offers enhancement to the performance of the Rockwell Automation solutions for customers. Products referenced in the program provide functionality & solutions not already delivered by Rockwell Automation and enhance and extend the capability of the Rockwell Automation platform.

The encompass partners include:

ProSoft Technology - specialises in the development of communication solutions compatible with the large automation suppliers' controllers
eWON - manufacturer of products that offer secure industrial connectivity across the Internet
Hardy Process Solutions - industry leader in the weighing automation world
Panduit - world-class developer and provider of leading-edge solutions that help customers optimise their physical infrastructure through simplification, agility, an operational efficiency
Spectrum Controls - premier provider of hardware and relate software products for the industrial controls marketplace
HMS - world's number 1 choice for industrial communication

More information about each of these encompass partners will follow, so watch this space!

Kick start your career!

Got your sights set on becoming an apprentice? Want to earn whilst you learn? Routeco offer a technical apprenticeship for school leavers and those who are looking for a change in their career.

What is an Apprenticeship?
They are on-the-job training programs which allow you to develop your career, study nationally recognised qualifications and learn new skills - all whilst earning a wage!

What does the Routeco Apprenticeship involve?
At Routeco we offer a 4 year apprenticeship scheme, consisting of on-the-job training predominantly working on the Technical Helpdesk and day release at college studying for formal qualifications in Electrical Engineering.

Year 1
Induction - Job training on the Technical helpdesk
Departmental rotation throughout the year - including Purchasing, Marketing, Logistics, Rockwell Automation
Key Skills Development - Quarterly projects set by mentor

Years 2/3/4 include:
Key Skill Development - Customer visits with Product Sales Specialists
Monthly Reviews - College performance and project work
Investors - Line Manager, Mentor and Sponsor

Dan has completed his apprenticeship with Routeco and talks about his experience…
…“The Routeco apprenticeship helped me to gain in depth knowledge of Industrial Automation and Control products, along with a recognised qualification in electrical engineering. Being able to take what I learned from college one day and putting it into practice the next, definitely enhanced my ability to progress. The scheme has set me up for a long and fruitful career within Routeco.”

 

If you want to be where Dan is in 5 years time, check out our careers page to keep up to date with opportunities.

Routeco attend the Apprenticeship Road Show in Daventry

On Wednesday evening, Routeco attended the Apprenticeship Road show at the iCon Centre in Daventry. Various colleges, training providers and businesses attended this event, with the opportunity to discuss the benefits of apprenticeships and what a worthwhile option they are for young people.

 

Our Automation Sales Manager gave a presentation outlining his own career, which was launched with a 4 year apprenticeship. He then spoke about Routeco's approach to apprenticeships and the potential career development opportunities.

 

The rest of the evening was spent talking to students and parents from the Northamptonshire region about the benefits of learning whilst earning, and providing general guidance on interview skills and preparing CVs and application forms.

 

More information will follow about the apprenticeship opportunities Routeco have to offer, so watch this space!

Do you need to replace leased lines?

As telecom providers start to phase out the traditional analogue leased lines in favour of IP based core networks, this brings up the conundrum of how to stay connected to you serial-based, remote assets.

Westermo have the solution.

Now available are the ADSL-350 broadband and MRD-350 3G/GPRS routers. These provide support for:

• DNP3 serial to IP conversion and a node on the telemetry network reporting directly using the DNP3 protocol
• Modbus
• Automatic VPN failover
• Automation media failover
• Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (media and hardware sensing)
• Built in firewall to provide security and prevent unauthorised access
• Very easy to use GUI
• Serial port built in
• Long reach ADSL (ADSL-350)
• Fully tested at BT labs in Martlesham Heath against 20CN and 21CN

ADSL-350 Data Sheet
The ADSL-350 is an industrially designed ADSL broadband router built to cope with harsh environments and the characteristics of industrial applications. The unit supports a wide range of ADSL standards and has support for long lines.

MRD-350 Data Sheet
The MRD-350 industrial mobile broadband GPRS/ EDGE/ 3G router uses the Internet to cost effectively inter-connect systems, allowing HMI, PLC's, sensors etc to communicate with each other

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Ex-pendant LED light fittings combine safety, reliability and energy efficiency

Cooper Crouse-Hinds has launched an innovative range of explosion-protected LED pendant light fittings/floodlights for Zone 2 hazardous gas areas. The light fittings are manufactured in accordance with the European Directive (ATEX) and IECEx standards and provide a unique combination of high energy efficiency, safety and reliability.

The new Champ NVMV LED range of light fittings is designed for general illumination duties at medium and high suspension heights in harsh, hazardous environments, particularly onshore and offshore oil and gas installations and chemical plants.

Key features:

• Can reduce energy costs by up to 58%
• Available in three power classes: from 70W up to 98W
• Lamps can be wall, ceiling, pole or pendant-mounted
• Approved up to temperature class T5
• Operating ambient temperatures from -40°C to +55°C
• Rated life of 60,000 hours continuous operation

By using a compact, modular design, installation, retrofitting and replacement of the LED lamp is fast and simple. The lamps are installed in the same way as existing Champ series lamps and modularity of lamp components enables easier part replacement and future upgrades.

A unique heat sink vertical fin design facilitates airflow and dust shedding, whilst ensuring safe, reliable heat dissipation. A durable fin extrusion ensures effective heat transfer from the LED assembly to the external environment, resulting in low LED junction temperatures, higher reliability and sustained lumen performance.

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Rittal Flex-Block base/plinth - suitable for any Rittal standing enclosures

Now available from Rittal the Flex-Block base/plinth system, to suit any Rittal floor standing enclosures TS8, SE8 and CM along with floor standing human interface products TP and PC.

Key benefits:

• Save time with fast assembly by simply clipping together the base/plinth components
• Easily bayed with tool-free baying clip
• Tool-free assembly of all base/plinth components
• Space-saving cable routing in the base/plinth means more space for the interior installation of the enclosure

The Flex-Block may be secured to the floor at any time, and can be used for baying by simply inserting the baying element into two corner pieces. Punched rails can be clipped into position without the need for tools, resulting in simple installation of the rails rom the enclosure into the base/plinth area.

The Flex-Block is available either sealed or vented.

Flex Block Sealed base/plinth supply includes:

• 4 corner pieces
• 4 trim panels
• 4 cover caps
• Assembly parts for mounting on the enclosure

Flex Block Vented base/plinth supply includes:

• 2 trim panels, vented (width)
• 2 trim panels, sealed (depth)
• 4 cover caps
• Assembly parts for mounting on the enclosure

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

A new way to remotely view the status of your machines - M2Web from eWON

M2Web is now available from eWON, allowing end-users to view the status of their machine or industrial equipment remotely via an ordinary web browser connected to Talk2M - also providing compatibility with Smartphones and tablets.

This new solution does not require any installation, as the connection is directly via a web browser. M2Web is compatible with most common browsers. Remote access removes boundaries, eliminates the need for time consuming site visits and provide a network infrastructure suitable for today's "always-on" society.

According to eWON's two co-founders, the other main advantage of this innovation is that eWON is now fully compatible with the mobile world. For machine builders and their customers, fast access to PLC variables from any location can often be essential, especially in the case of isolated machine without a local operator. Now with M2Web, users will be able to view the status of their machines via a Smartphone or tablet.

For more information click here.

Rittal's stainless steel enclosures for cleanliness and corrosion resistance

For automation, communications or power supply technology, Rittal offer the correct enclosures and cabinets to suit virtually all requirement profiles in modern industry.

For more demanding applications where hygiene is essential such as the food and beverage sector and pharmaceuticals or in more aggressive environments such as petrochemical plants and offshore situation, Rittal's stainless steel range of enclosures and cabinets will provide high cleanliness standards and corrosion resistance.

Cleverly though-out system platforms, in conjunction with an extensive selection of system accessories, provide the basis for the outstanding solution diversity of the Rittal stainless steel range.

Rittal's 304 or 316 grade stainless steel are available now. 

Stainless Steel Enclosures

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

How our IT solutions can help you

Routeco have been serving the automation industry since 1978, specialising in providing the best industrial control, automation and process products. With technology continuously evolving, we recognise the need for IT products within a manufacturing environment and offer a wide portfolio to integrate into your systems

 

How we can tailor product solutions for your needs

• Dell registered partner - this enables us to supply product solutions quickly and directly to you
• Sourcing products from hundreds of suppliers - we have no limitations so we can find a suitable product to meet your every need
• Quick and simple to buy from - benefit from using your existing Routeco account
• Configured solutions - with your choice of Rockwell Automation software to a PC or Laptop, which will speed up the process, simply leaving you to use it
• Installation of legacy operating systems to your PC or laptop - we have the capabilities to fully configure Windows XP PRO operating systems to match your requirements
• Kitting in conjunction with Automation products - Routeco have experience in supplying kits of materials, so we can ensure you get optimum configuration

Routeco will ensure you receive the best guidance in your choice of IT Solutions products.

Dell at Routeco

For further information please contact 01908 359293

Liquid and Gas Flow Computer for the Rockwell Automation ControlLogix platform

ProSoft Technology Inc is pleased to announce the release of version 2.07 of the Liquid and Gas Flow Computer for the Rockwell Automation ControlLogix platform.

In oil applications, crude is extracted and transported through pipelines that often run hundreds of miles through varying climates, temperatures, and altitudes. As these elements vary, so do the properties of the petroleum, necessitating flow computers to validate the precise quantity of product calibrated flow meters. Meter provers help validate proper flow meter operation.
 

The ProSoft Technology flow computer calculates a meter factor based on constants and variables affecting flow rates, accumulated volumes, and accumulated mass of the liquid petroleum product lowing through a prover with known volume. With the new meter proving features, the module is now able to communicate meter prover test results directly to the control processor and SCADA control system. Operation of the prover interface feature can be completely automated, can be performed manually, can be scheduled, or can be triggered by events or operator intervention.

The prover interface feature supports these power types:
 

· Unidirectional Pipe Prover

· Bidirectional Pipe Prover

· Compact Prover

· Master Meter Prover

The module is unique in that it resides directly in the ControlLogix chassis, acting as an add-on co-processor, dedicate to calculating flow measurement without burdening the PLC with complicated flow algorithms.

Data Sheet

For more information, email sales@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000

RiCAD 3D software is now available free

The new version is 3.2 as of 1st October 2012 and can be downloaded from the Rittal website. RiCAD 3D software offers:

• Substantial time savings when using Rittal products in your engineering processes
• Error free, detailed Rittal data instead of coarse re-modelling by the user
• Original data for the 5 most common CAD formats
• Supply includes 2D and 3D drawings in all relevant formats

3 options for retrieving the CAD data:

• Offline: Variant: RiCAD-3D as a database on your hard drive
• Online: Request data via product pages on the Rittal website
• Online: Retrieve data via the web platform "PARTcommunity"

To download click here

Benefits of the RiCAD 3D:

• All CAD data may be transferred into all standard CAD systems, thanks to the intelligent, native 2D/3D multiCAD - compatible format
• The accurately detailed and validated drawings allow design drawings to be created by users with optimum planning confidence, in a fraction of the time taken for conversional design, by simply remodelling
• Thanks to the freely selectable level of detail in CAD models, these may be represented in a greatly simplified format, enabling huge performance enhancements among users.

Join our team!

We have several job vacancies across our branches. Here is an overview of all our current opportunities.

Internal Technical Sales - Derby

Internal Technical Sales - Manchester

Area Sales Manager - Leeds

External Sales Engineer - Peterlee Area

External Sales Engineer - Leeds Area

Internal Sales and Local Logistics - Coventry

External Sales Engineer - Milton Keynes Area

Internal Technical Sales - Peterborough

Internal Technical Sales - Southampton

External Sales Engineer - Southampton Area

Assembly Business Manager - Milton Keynes

For more information, or if you would like to apply, please click on the job role.

39 Series MasterINTERFACE from Finder

The 39 Series MasterINTERFACE is a new concept in interface relays from Finder: Ultraslim and available in 5 different versions, suitable for interfacing with PLC-controlled automated systems:

• MasterBASIC - for use in any type of systems
• MasterPLUS - with a fuse, a unique feature for an ultraslim interface module, same features as the MasterBASIC, in addition allows an extra protection to the output circuit thanks to its replaceable fuse.
• MasterINPUT and MasterOUTPUT - allow significant time saving with regards to connection in applications where a single contact closure is required. These modules allow a direct connection to the interface without the need for additional terminals, thus saving space in the panel.
• MasterTIMER - multifunction and multi-scale timed interface module.

Jumper links for all these versions are available in three different colours: Blue, Red and Black.

Data Sheet

Interface Relays

For more information, email: sales@routeco.com or call: 0370 607 1000

Dual-Port option module allow AC drives to fully utilise EtherNet/IP

The new Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 750-Series dual-port EtherNet/IP option module provides a flexible, cost-effective way to apply enhanced communication capabilities for the Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 753 and 755 AC drives.

The new module is compatible with all three industry-standard Ethernet topologies: Device Level Ring (DLR), Star and Linear. DLR-based networks help reduce configuration time and costs by minimising the number of managed switches and reducing cabling needs.

Users can create a single DLR network that connects all components at the device level. Device Level ring is an ODVA standard providing fault-tolerant connectivity for high drive availability. If one device on the Ethernet/IP network fails, other devices are able to continue operation.

 

The new option module also supports Automatic Device Configuration (ADC) or the PowerFlex 753 and 755. With ADC, an Allen-Bradley Logix Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) can automatically detect a replaced PowerFlex 750-Series drive and download all configuration parameters; eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration.

In addition, this solution supports CIP motion at the DLR level for the PowerFlex 755, further enhancing integration into the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture and helping users get real-time information at the right time and the right level of the manufacturing environment for enhanced business agility.

Aside from the enhanced networking capabilities, the PowerFlex 750 Series drives on a dual-port EtherNet/IP network also offer:

• More selection for control and supporting hardware options than any other drives in their class;
• Optimised integration with system controllers on EtherNet/IP, plus a variety of network choices;
• Predictive diagnostics and built-in protection features to help guard a customer's investment;
• Safety solutions for PLe/SIL Cat 3 and Cat 4; a slot-based architecture that allows customers to build the drive to suit their application;
• Supported hardware control options that are common to help reduce inventory and spare parts;
• Flexible packaging options to meet environmental protection requirements.

Data Sheet

EtherNet I/P Module

For more information, email sales@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000

New Industrial Ethernet switch features scalable managed switching capabilities

Built with the best of Rockwell Automation and Cisco technology, the highly scalable, compact-sized Allen-Bradley Stratix 5700 layer 2 managed industrial Ethernet switch meets a broad range of switching capabilities - from entry level, machine-builder applications through converged or IT-ready integrated user solutions.

Using the world's leading network infrastructure software - Cisco IOS - the Stratix 5700 switch delivers secure integration of business critical services and support from the plant floor to the enterprise. The Stratix 5700 managed switch also simplifies the design and development of machine-level networks through configuration and monitoring tools. These tools help enable easy setup and diagnostics from within the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture system - bridging the gap between IT and the automation engineer.

Like the Stratix 8000 family of switches, the Stratix 5700 switch also utilizes Cisco IOS technology. The portfolio contains many popular features that are in use today by IT and controls organisations that deploy standard, unmodified Ethernet, with settings optimised for us in EtherNet/IP applications. Rockwell Automation and Cisco are committed to being the most valuable resource in the industry for helping the manufacturers improve business performance by bridging the technical and cultural gaps between the plant floor and higher-level information systems using EtherNet/IP - the world's leading open industrial Ethernet network.

Key Features:

• Currently available with 6, 10 and 20 fixed-port configurations
• Hardware embeds features such as IEEE-1588 time synchronisation, QoS and Resilient Ethernet Protocol
• Additional software features also help improve network performance and troubleshooting and allow for increased network availability
• Each base model of the Stratix 5700 switch comes with dual power inputs, input and output alarms, console port, fiber-ready SFP slots, DIN rail mount and operating temperature range of minus 40C to 60C
• Model options include two gig ports, SD flash car, conformal coating and two different software configurations for a total of 20 different models to best match machine and end-user applications

Data Sheet

For more information, email sales@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000