Molex Incorporated introduces its next generation Brad® applicomIO PROFIBUS Network Interface Cards, which are form-fit-function replacements for the existing family. Delivered with applicomIO version 4.1, which includes Windows 8 support, the second generation NICs provide an easy-to-use communication solution for the acquisition of deterministic real-time data from I/O devices connected to PROFIBUS DP protocol as used by robotic manufacturers, complex machine builders, system integrators and end users.“Delivered with applicomIO version 4.1, which includes support for Windows 32-bit and 64-bit environments (8, Server 2012, 2012 R2), the second generation of PROFIBUS cards are available in PCI, PCI Express, and CompactPCI 3U formats,” says Eric Gory, product marketing manager, industrial communications, integrated products division, Molex. “In addition, real-time operating systems such as Linux RT, VxWorks, QNX and IntervalZero RTX are supported.”

The Brad applicomIO offering provides the NIC, configuration software, development libraries and OPC data server in one complete package for successful, cost-effective implementation of control applications. The PROFIBUS DP protocol can run in both Master and/or Slave modes, which allows the card to behave as a controller or a device on the network. The Brad applicomIO package enables OEMs and System Integrators to develop their PC-Based applications easily with no or limited knowledge in fieldbus technology.

Up to 8 cards can be plugged into a single PC, allowing multiple fieldbus connections at the same time. The integrated software tools are accessible via a ‘Console’ from where the user can configure and diagnose the industrial environment. For example, the ‘Automatic Equipment Detection’ function scans the network to provide the user with a list of connected devices that can be inserted directly using a simple ‘Drag & Drop’ command.

“The Brad applicomIO products include many other features, which are proving especially popular with OEMs,” adds Gory. “These include the ‘Watchdog’ application, flash memory for auto-boot, diagnosis tools, and remote configuration for embedded systems diagnosis - all these benefits make applicomIO reference product solutions for your industrial communication.”

All Brad applicomIO hardware and software is designed, developed and produced in Molex facilities, delivering assurance of full technical support and expertise from Molex.  Product offering includes connectivity with the major fieldbuses such as PROFIBUS, CANopen, DeviceNet, Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET. For more information about the Brad applicomIO PC Network Interface Cards and Software package from Molex, please visit: www.molex.com