Receiving an e-mail alert from your motor drive system is now possible, thanks to a new intelligent Ethernet module from ABB, which connects drives to the Internet. 

Called NETA-01, the Ethernet module works with any ABB drive that provides a fiber optic link, communicating via a standard Web browser. 

Alert in; control out?
"This tool can be a key for operations in remote locations, such as oil fields and pumping or manufacturing processes, that depend on 24/7 uptime for maximum production," said ABB application engineering manager Steve Weingarth. "The alert, regarding any critical drive functions, arrives to any point where you monitor your e-mail."

Operators can also check the performance of any given drive/motor. The module gives simple, real-time access and users can set up a virtual monitoring room wherever there is a PC with an Internet connection.

This enables remote monitoring, configuration and diagnostics, and when needed, control. Through the link, the drive can provide process-related information, such as load level, run time, energy consumption and I/O data (such as bearing temperature of the driven machine).

The intelligent Ethernet module has an embedded server with all the necessary software for user interface, communication and data storage.

"The two-way communication with the drive enables immediate response and actions, which saves time and money," said Weingarth. And it saves having to travel to the actual drive location with PC in hand, which is required by many other remote solutions.

Tool enables support of installed motor controls
The module also can be programmed to send alerts that are triggered by a variety of operating conditions, with the alerts reaching predefined e-mail addresses. 

It is ideal for decentralized applications where the user needs access to the drives from more than one location. OEMs and system integrators can support their installed base of motor controllers on a worldwide basis.

Up to nine drives can be connected to the intelligent Ethernet module. It is available as an option for new drives, as well as an upgrade for existing systems.

Ethernet allows the integration of both process and office environments into a global network. The module supports the usual HTTP, IP, TCP, SMTP, BOOTP, UDP, Telnet, FTP and Modbus/TCP protocols. 

Access to the module is secured by a user ID and passwords. Multiple security levels enable the allocation of different access rights to normal users and administrators. Even higher levels of security can be achieved using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection.

The module is mounted onto a standard mounting rail inside or outside the drive unit, depending on drive type and configuration. It connects to the drive with fibre optic cables. 

The size of the module is 4 inches tall by 1.5 inches wide by 3 inches deep.

The IP address of the Ethernet module can be freely allocated. The user interface with the drive is created using embedded Java applets. The Web page of the module is opened like any other Web address. The home page shows a general overview of the system with traffic lights and action buttons to guide the user through the different sections.

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