Interface Modules from Molex Reduce Wiring Time
The new 39170 series interface modules from Molex Inc. provide a cost effective method to interface field wiring to PLC's and other control devices. Intended for machine builders, manufacturers of capital equipment, system integrators, electrical design firms and panel builders, these DIN-Rail mounted devices connect a high-density cable from a PLC or electronic control system to terminal blocks where wiring from field devices is terminated.
The result is reduced wiring time and decreased checkout and troubleshooting time, since the connections between the high-density PLC cable and the terminal blocks are prewired on a printed circuit board.
Benefits customers will see from using the Interface Modules include: Reduced wiring time by up to 50 percent. Quicker checkout of new control systems and faster troubleshooting of installed systems. Space savings of up to 60 percent compared to standard DIN rail terminal blocks. And lower total installation cost.
"The new interface modules offer our customers a time-savings and cost-effective solution to interface their PLC and electronic control systems to wiring from field devices," said Mark Wuolle, product manager with Molex. "There is further flexibility to work with customers for custom solutions by adding components for conditioning, electrical isolation, or visual indication."
Highly versatile for a number of industries and types of control systems, the interface modules are well-suited for industrial and process control equipment, power systems, transportation applications and material handling equipment.
Interface Modules support from 9 to 50 circuits per module, and offer design flexibility with a choice of connection methods. The modules are available with fixed or pluggable terminal blocks, and the PLC/controller interface is available with a ribbon cable connector or a D-sub connector. Clear terminal markings help eliminate wiring errors, and reliable connections are assured using rising cage clamp technology.
Molex can also customize the interface modules with the specific components or connectors needed for high volume OEM applications. Electrical components that can be added include resistors, capacitors, diodes, and light emitting diodes (LEDs).
Typical OEM pricing is less than $1.20 per circuit for modules with 20 to 50 circuits, and typical lead-time is stock to four weeks.
