Stratix 5200 fully managed Ethernet switches from Rockwell Automation have higher port speed options, all gig ports and still offer redundant and resilient system features, including DLR and PRP.

New from IDEC is the FT2J series, combining a PLC with an operator interface. This compact, energy-efficient solution offers a sleek design and advanced connectivity, perfect for space-constrained environments.

With Automation1 XA4 and iXA4, Aerotech is launching two new digital PWM drives. The slimline single and multi-axis servo motor drives are designed for use with Aerotech’s Automation1 platform and offer a lower price compared to Aerotech’s higher performance drives.

Smart 2D profile sensors from Baumer are playing a key role in an automated sandwich and filled rolls production line at Germany company Weber Maschinebau. Baumer’s OXM 2D sensor provides precise edge control and positioning data, and delivers the calculated coordinates correctly in the units required.

Despite a patent history that dates back to 1949, the roller screw technology is still a less recognised option when compared to other mechanisms for conversion of rotary torque into linear motion. Mark Moore of Moore International looks at why, and discusses the advantages of roller screw technology.

Cable service life is a concern to machine builders and cable users. But 10 years ago, igus was the first industrial company in the world to introduce a 36-month guarantee on moving cables. Now, the plastics specialist is extending the guarantee period for its entire cable range by a further 12-months to four years, giving customers even more operational and planning security.

By using frequency inverters, plant and machine manufacturers can get even more out of their motors. This is because they allow universal drive machines to be operated flexibly. With this in mind, KEB Automation has introduced asynchronous geared motors with integrated frequency inverters.

Thomson Industries has introduced a rotating-nut stepper motor linear actuator (SMLA) with a rotary encoder as a standard option. Machine designers with applications requiring positional feedback can now specify the full line of SMLAs integrated with this enhancement.

WDS Components has launched a new range of durable, coloured bow handles, ideal for use with machinery and many industrial applications.

The box PCs from Phoenix Contact are suitable for a wide range of automation tasks – from simple data acquisition to complex IoT and edge applications. With the VL3 UPC series, particularly compact devices are now available for demanding edge computing installations in distributed control cabinets.