Banner Engineering, a provider of technology for industrial automation, released its SC10 Series safety controller, designed so that it can replace the functionality of two or more safety relay modules. It has 10 inputs, including 4 inputs that can be converted to outputs, and features Automatic Terminal Optimization (ATO), which should make it possible to increase the number of available inputs from 10 up to 14 to accommodate additional input devices. Two independent 6 amp relay outputs with three normally open sets of contacts are made to enable the creation of independent safety zones with unique outputs for different safety functions.
The SC10 is designed to be configured using Banner’s free safety controller software and a PC. The software is meant to provide an icon-based, drag-and-drop user interface that automatically generates ladder logic and wiring diagrams to clearly identify terminal assignments. Configurations are also meant to be tested prior to implementation to reduce the risk of error. Confirmed configurations can be saved to an SC-XM3 external drive and loaded onto additional SC10 safety controllers using the micro USB port on the front of the device, according to the company.
Industrial Ethernet communication protocols (Ethernet IP, Profinet, Modbus, and PCCC) can provide two-way communication between the SC10 and other devices. The safety controller is designed to send up to 256 virtual status updates to a PLC or HMI for advanced troubleshooting. The company says it can also receive up to 80 virtual non-safety inputs, including manual reset, On/Off commands, enable mute functions, and cancel Off-delay.
SC10 Series safety controllers are designed to monitor a wide range of input devices, providing safe stop and start functions. The company says they are typically used to monitor E-Stop buttons, rope pulls, safety light curtains, scanners, safety switches, and a number of other safety devices.
