Control without crossed wires
15 Jan 2000
Northamptonshire-based Smartscan is launching what it claims is the world's first safety system using a two-wire conduit to transmit power, diagnostic and safety data.
Often safety devices use four to six wires to transmit the necessary information. The SafeNet conduit communicates data between field devices, a PC and a central command module, using only two wires.
Field devices include emergency stop buttons, light curtains, gate interlock switches, safety mats and solenoid valves. Smartscan also monitor the real-time condition of every safety device in the system. Partly funded by the Department of Trade and Industry, development of the SafeNet system cost over £2.5million.
