Getting data from the legacy control systems to feed visualization and IT systems has become important. This message manager module is a single-slot data transfer engine.
The ProSoft Technology ILX56-MM module designed to transfer factory and plant process automation data between PLCs and PACs resides in a Rockwell Automation ControlLogix chassis. It requires no message programming or ladder logic, but is configured using a built-in graphical Web-based configuration tool.
Data transfers can be set up by users for up to 16 controllers including:
Rockwell Automation SLC500, PLC-5, MicroLogix, CompactLogix and ControlLogix controllers via any network supported in the Rockwell 1756 ControlLogix platform.
Siemens S7 PLCs and other PLCs using Industrial Ethernet.
Schneider Electric and other PLCs using Modbus TCP/IP.
According to ARC Advisory Group research director Craig Resnick, "Technologies such as the Message Manager module provide simplified bridging solutions from the existing installed base of controllers to state-of-the-art automation platforms such as the Rockwell Automation ControlLogix PACs to fulfill the real-time data collection and information needs of the plant floor."
