Description
The ESX.3cm is a compact, robust and efficient control unit. In addition to the ESX.3cs, an ESX.3cm (c = compact, m=medium) rounds off the third generation of ESX control units. The “c” stands for “compact” and indicates that all pins are fixed assigned prior to the hardware definition. The functions of these pins can be defined in more detail using software. Both control units are also suitable for safety-oriented applications up to Performance Level PL d or Safety Integrity Level SIL 2, and are based on a common architectural concept: The robust aluminum die cast housing with automotive plug-in connectors contains a fast 32-bit microcontroller with four MB Flash and eight MB SRAM, up to four CAN interfaces, one serial interface and several LEDs.
Safety and diagnostic capability
A second, independent processor monitors the various system voltages and the program sequence. If required, this switches off all outputs via a second shut-down method or resets the main controller. Digital and analog feedback for almost all signal branches permit comprehensive diagnostics for the system including the inputs and outputs.
For safety-oriented applications, a safety layer API is available which permits the separation of safety and non-safety (feedback-free) application sections using a memory protection unit. This makes the effort required for recertification in case of changes to the (non-safety) application software substantially easier. The creation and updating of a safety-oriented application can be conveniently carried out using a safety manual and a diagnostics library.
Software
The application software for the ESX.3cm can be highly efficiently created either in “C” or also CODESYS V3.5 IEC 61131-3. In the programming interface, numerous convenient functions such as current controllers and ramp functions for outputs or frequency averaging for inputs are integrated.
