Block

Product News: Rockwell Automation's on-machine, distributed I/O solution

May 17, 2023
The new solution promises to improve operational agility.

Rockwell Automation announced the release of its new Allen‑Bradley ArmorBlock 5000 I/O blocks. Integrated with IO-Link technology, the distributed I/O solution promises smart capabilities that can help industrial manufacturers improve operational productivity with minimal cost.

Manufacturers can deploy and maintain smart automation more efficiently with the ArmorBlock 5000 I/O solution, per its maker, which adds that with the highly integrated IO-Link capabilities, machine design complexity is reduced through simpler device configuration and better integration with Allen‑Bradley controllers. Users are promised the ability to speed up project development with the common tag structure and configuration workflows in the Studio 5000 Logix Designer environment.

Optimized for on-machine use, the ArmorBlock 5000 I/O blocks enable quicker installation, commissioning and troubleshooting, which will reduce downtime, per Rockwell. The I/O blocks can operate in a wide range of temperatures and offer up to IP69K protection for high-speed applications in harsh environments. Plus, the blocks are available in three industry-standard power variants to meet different regional needs.

“With the increasingly complex manufacturing landscape, our customers are challenged to improve operational resilience while maintaining efficiency. Smarter technology is a key enabler for better enterprise visibility, leading to timely data-driven decisions,” said Sean Homan, business director, asia/pacific business center, Rockwell Automation. “ArmorBlock 5000 I/O is the result of our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. With its distributed monitoring and control, and highly integrated IO-Link capabilities, this On-Machine I/O solution can drive production agility for industrial automation.”