GE Fanuc Emerson | Versamax

About GE VersaMax
The VersaMax series of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) is manufactured by GE Fanuc. The VersaMax family of controllers are advanced controllers, capable of being used in medium to large scale applications. This controller features a modular hardware that supports a variety of Input and output modules, specialty and communication interface modules. This controller family also supports implementation of Distributed I/O architecture, allowing I/O interface installed remotely, near the signal source and actuating elements.

Distributed I.O architecture may be implemented utilizing a variety of protocols such as Genius, DeviceNet, Profibus and Ethernet communication. Genius bus is a serial based that is used by earlier GE Programmable Controllers. Profibus also relies on RS485 communication standard, allowing I/O station to installed up to 1km away from the controller. DeviceNet is Device level communication protocol allowing controllers to directly interact with field devices. Ethernet is the modern communication protocol typically used in most modern installation due to its user-friendliness and maintainability.

The VersaMax Programmable Logic Controllers supports insertion of modules even if the system is in run mode. This is commonly known as Hot-swap capability. With this feature, system enhancement, reconfiguration even maintenance can be carried out without the need of stopping the controller or shutting down the process or machine.

VersaMax controllers supports IEC611-3 programming languages such as Ladder, Sequential Function Chart, and Instruction list. These controllers support floating point data, supports installation of additional non-volatile memory, Embedded RS232 and RS485 communication ports and compatible with EX programming Store device. Available VersaMax controller models are IC200CPU001 which features Two Serial Ports, 34kB of Configurable Memory, IC200CPU002 with Two Serial Ports, 42kB of Configurable Memory, IC200CPU005 with Two Serial Ports, 64kB of Configurable Memory, and IC200CPUE05 with Two Serial Ports and Embedded Ethernet Interface, 64kB of Configurable Memory.

VersaMax I/O modules are available in Sixteen (16) Discrete Input modules, composed of AC, DC, TTL, Positive / Negative logic modules; Discrete Output modules are available in Twelve (12) modules, composed of sourcing, sinking, DC, AC and relay modules. Combination I/O modules are also available that comes in Eleven (11) varieties. Nine (9) analog input modules are also available with different resolutions such as 12-Bit, 16-Bit and 16-bit modules that supports standard Voltage, Current, Thermocouple, and RTD signals. Eight (8) Analog output modules are available with output resolutions of 12-Bit, 13-Bit and 16-Bitresolutions. Mixed analog modules are also available in Three (3) varieties.

For short distance or within the panel I/O expansion, distributed I/O architecture may be expensive. The VersaMax controller family series offers an expansion alternative that allows 15-750 meters distance range. This expansion method utilizes module expansion racks such as IC200ALG320, IC200ALG321, IC200ALG322, IC200ALG430, IC200ALG431, and IC200ALG432. 

The VersaMAx Programmable Logic controller family are programmed with the use of the VersaPro programming software. This software allows hardware configuration, communication parameter setting, creating an offline program, performing online edits, enable I/O forces, access programming libraries, manage program sections and many other functions. The VersaMax pro software has a user friendly interface and installed to a computers running a Microsoft Windows Operating system.

PROS:

• Small form factor
• Modular hardware
• Wide variety of I/O module selection
• Supports simple Motion Control
• Embedded Serial Communication Port
• Configurable as Master or Client in the RS485 Network
• Supports Ladder, Sequential Function Chard and Instruction List Programming Language
• Supports a variety of communication protocols including ProfiBus, DeviceNet and Ethernet
• Fast execution of user program
• Modern design
• Easy to install
• User-friendly programming software

CONS:

• Ethernet ports and other industrial protocols are available via expansion modules
• No Front Panel LCD
• Webserver functionality not available
• IoT not ready
• Few controller choices