Cincinnati Test Systems Announces Addition of EtherNet/IP to Leak and Flow Test Instruments

EtherNet/IP™ is now a standard selectable communication option for CTS Sentinel I28, C28, and Blackbelt instruments that will reduce integration costs using standardized CIP™ programing. For CTS, EtherNet/IP provides the capability to control, configure, send, and receive messages between CTS Sentinel test instruments and Allen-Bradley PLC’s. EtherNet/IP is a Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) utilizing an open communication interface that saves time and cost by increasing flexibility, decreasing custom programming, and special wiring.

EtherNet/IP is a licensed CIP communications network protocol which CTS is a compliant and certified vendor by ODVA™ that allows the user to execute Sentinel instrument functions, machine functions, and communication messaging by any EtherNet/IP interface equipped controller. For system integrators, EtherNet/IP makes system integration easier and saves money. An example of cost savings is the inclusion of 26 inputs and 25 outputs accessible through this interface. This means there is no need to purchase additional I/O modules and add special wiring between the PLC to the instrumentation.

CTS is ODVA Conformant, tested by ODVA and certified to ensure flawless operation and verified data exchanges. This means ‘It Works the First Time, and Every Time.’ With this simplified communication the PLC controls the test system while monitoring the leak test instrument and supports real-time messaging from the test system to communicate test pass/fail results, machine test errors, and I/O status. For connectivity, the CTS EtherNet/IP uses the standard RJ45 Ethernet port provided with Sentinel instrument for plug-and play connectivity. As a final cost savings and for easy integration CTS supplies Function Block Programming with each instrument allowing simplified software adaption for the application. To support previously purchased instrumentation, EtherNet/IP communication is retrofitable with previous versions of Sentinel instrument models as a firmware update.

Cincinnati Test Systems, Inc. is a member of the TASI Group of Companies, based in Southwestern Ohio. CTS has been engineering and manufacturing precision leak test equipment and function/assembly verification tests for customers throughout the world since 1981.