Programmable Logic Controllers

Featured at Semicon West

Designed for a six-sigma level of quality, the new VersaMax family of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and I/0 provides reliability for control applications in semiconductor production and fabrication. This new generation of micro PLCs and universal distributed I/O combines the results of global research and development techniques, extensive customer needs analysis, and rigorous quality standards to achieve better system performance and higher uptime.

The VersaMax family also offers intuitive diagnostics and hot insertion, allowing users to add and remove modules from their bases while a process is running and without affecting field wiring. These features, along with others such as high-resolution analog and flexible network interfaces, reflect input from more than 80 companies worldwide on their automation needs. The resulting VersaMax family of PLCs and I/O provides seamless control solutions for every aspect of semiconductor manufacturing, from material preparation and design, to wafer processing, assembly packaging, and testing.

Suited for control applications up to 256 VO, the VersaMax CPU supports DeviceNet, Profibus-DP, and Genius bus communications. Additionally, the VersaMax PLC provides ASCII read-from and write-to capabilities for interfacing with various serial devices. A powerful motion module features high-speed points configurable for PWM and pulse-train outputs or high-speed counters for economical motion control. A flexible solution, VersaMax I/O spans PLC, distributed control system (DCS), and PC-based control architectures. The I/O seamlessly integrates with GE Fanuc's CIMPLICITY PC Control to provide low-cost redundancy in an easy-to-use, Windows-based package. Redundancy allows users in the semiconductor industry to leverage the continuous advances in personal computer technology and the multi-tasking Windows environment.

Measuring 77 mm, VersaMax modules use a rackless design with mounting on a DIN rail that connects up to eight plug-and-play modules per CPU or network interface unit (NIU). Modules can accommodate from 8- to 32-point densities per node. This flexible system also permits both horizontal and vertical mounting for greater convenience and ease. VersaMax meets UL, CUL, CE, Demko, and Class 1, Division 2 applications.

GE Semiconductor, Fanuc Information Center, P.O. Box E, Whitehall, PA 18052. Tel: 800-648-2001; Fax: 610-437-5212.