232 to Ethernet or DH+ to Ethernet.

We currently have eight identical machines with AB panelview 600 and SLC 5/04. I want to pull production information from these processors to OSIsoft's PI Management software via RSlinx Gateway OPC.

I don't want to put all of these machines on the same DH+ network because the machines have a Emerson Axima servo controller that communicates to the PLC on the DH+ network. Each machine's DH+ network is independent. Our current setup allows us to have the same program on all machines and we want to keep it that way so a ControlLogix Gateway is out of the question.

I am debating on which route to go with, a 232 to Ethernet converter, or a DH+ to Ethernet converter. My end goal is to be able to set them up on the RsLinx Gateway terminal and pull data from the processor. I also want to remote into our VPN to our plant network and go online and download/upload programs, with the processors via the gateway terminal. Does anyone else currently do this and if so what did you use.

Thanks,
Kirk Dotson

Are the PanelView terminals connected to the RS232 port of the SLC-5/04 controller, or is that port available ?

If the Channel 0 port is available, I would suggest equipping each machine with a 1761-NET-ENI or a Digi One RS232/Ethernet interface. That will allow you access to the controller as well as to the connected PanelView terminal (using DF1->DH+ passthrough).

Adding a DH+ to Ethernet interface, whether it's a 1756-DHRIO channel or a EquusTek or SST box to each machine is likely a lot more expensive and doesn't buy you a whole lot more speed.

Why is a ControlLogix gateway out of the question? I have 4 DH+ networks and 5 Ethernet networks integrated into a single ControlLogix gateway. All the DH+ networks have that same node address on the gateway - just seperated by the path through the gateway. And believe it or not, I have 3 of the 5 ethernet networks with the same IP address.

Ken Roach,
Yes, channel 0 is free. I have heard of the 1761-NET-ENI but haven't used one. Can I VPN to the processor and upload and download programs via RSlinx gateway with the Ethernet driver?

Oakley,
I don't want to go that route because the cost and rackspace. This task will take 4 DH+ cards to get the job done. I'm working with a 40,000 annual budget and I want to get the most bang for my buck.