Three years after the German controls manufacturer Vipa launched its SLIO slice I/O system, it has added two CPUs (with differing memory capacities) that turn it into a full control system. The PLCs are based on the latest Speed7 chip technology developed by Vipa’s profichip subsidiary. Coupled with a 48 Mbit/s backplane bus, the devices can switch to a precision of ±1µs.

The CPUs are programmed using Step 7 code. They can be configured using Vipa`s new Speed7 Studio, also launched at the recent SPS/IPC/Drives show. Intelligent memory management allows the CPU memory to be expanded up to 512kB while it is operating.

The controllers are equipped with a RJ-45 Ethernet interface for PG/OP communication. A PtP interface is available for serial protocols and Profibus DP slave operation.

“The introduction of the CPUs is the logical consequence of the successful introduction of the SLIO I/O system,” says Vipa CEO, Wolfgang Seel. “With this, we also respond to the wish of our customers, who have accepted SLIO as ‘the’ IO system and now a fully-fledged control system."

Yaskawa has recently acquired a controlling stake in Vipa.