ASI unit offers basic automation

To keep pace with demand from the food and drinks sector, Alfa Laval has launched the ThinkTop Basic actuator-sensor interface (ASI) valve sensing and control unit.

The ASI unit uses a single cable instead of individual discrete wires to link a programmable logic controller (PLC) with sensors and actuators.

An intelligent system, it is designed to be employed in a master-slave system where a single ASI master can exchange input/output data with up to 62 ASI slave devices and each slave can transfer up to four inputs and four outputs on a bus cycle.

ASI provides basic automation in applications where the cost or complexity of higher digital fieldbus systems cannot be justified. It is claimed to greatly simplify the installation process.

The new ThinkTop Basic ASI unit is ideal for use in all hygienic applications, and is compatible with all major PLC systems and master gateways using the ASI specification from version 3.0.

Contact: Alfa Laval

Tel: 01276 633 83