Mitsubishi Electric Automation Announces New Sensor Level I/O Network System to Complement Existing CC-Link Open Network Architecture.

VERNON HILLS, Ill. -- Mitsubishi Electric  Automation, Inc. has added CC-Link/LT, a sensor level network version of the CC-Link open device level network, to its automation network architecture. CC-Link is based on network technology hosted by the CC Link Partner Association, which is comprised of more than 500 partner companies with thousands of users. CC-Link/LT is designed to address the needs of both OEM and end user systems where the ability to connect small nodes of digital I/O to a network in the most cost effective manner is required.

"CC-Link has rapidly become a globally accepted open network standard with over two million installed nodes, and we are pleased to have Mitsubishi Electric Automation supporting it so strongly," said Chuck Lukasik, CC Link Partner Association North American director.

"We anticipate great success with this new CC-Link/LT offering, because it addresses key needs for networking low-level devices and achieving the excellent data transparency that customers want," said John Browett, Mitsubishi Electric Automation product manager.

CC-Link/LT main features and benefits include:

--Simplified connection of devices such as pilot lights, limit switches and push buttons to control systems and the elimination of individual wiring runs from distant locations.

--Reduced cost of installation and maintenance. CC-Link/LT handles both power and signal on one key-coded, self-healing cable. Device connection requires no stripping or terminating due to the use of simple insulation displacement connectors (IDCs) that help ensure a perfect connection. Optional IDC connections on the I/O blocks will further reduce installation effort and cost, as they eliminate the need for terminating lugs.

--Designed with fine "granularity" allowing as few as two I/O points per location.

--Superior performance and flexibility compared to other sensor networks; spans up to 500 meters and handles up to 1024 I/O. The bus topology supports various branching techniques.

--Supported on Mitsubishi Q-Series Automation Platform and FX SuperMicro(TM) controllers

--No special programming required; I/O appear as standard devices to the controller.

--Efficient I/O assignment maximizes network capacity and programming simplicity.

--Integrates onto larger CC-Link networks using the available bridge module.

--Applies open technology allowing companies to build and integrate various devices.

"Customers will enjoy peace of mind when they choose CC Link and CC Link/LT for their installations," added Browett. "Unlike other open network choices, Mitsubishi Electric guarantees compatibility in all CC Link and CC Link/LT devices, regardless of vendor, in systems that use Mitsubishi products. This eliminates "finger pointing" that can occur with other open network technologies in multi-vendor configurations. We believe that CC Link's intelligent design and stringent certification virtually eliminate compatibility issues."

Shipments of the CC Link/LT device are scheduled for the end of 2004.

For more information on the CC-Link network technology and opportunities for partnership, please visit the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA) website at www.cc-link.org.

About Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc., in Vernon Hills, IL, offers a comprehensive line of factory automation solutions. Products include automation platforms, programmable logic controllers, human machine interfaces (HMI), CNC PC-based control systems, AC variable frequency drives, servo amplifiers and motors, motion controllers, industrial computers, control software, computerized numerical control systems, robots, uninterruptible power supply systems and industrial sewing machines. For a broad range of factory automation applications, visit the Mitsubishi Electric Automation web site at www.meau.com.