New ASi-3 Gateway: Integrated REST API and Comprehensive Web Server for Industry 4.0

Another advantage of the gateway is the integrated web server. This not only meets modern cybersecurity requirements, but also enables simple and convenient commissioning and diagnostics via mobile devices. All configuration and diagnostics are performed via a standard web browser—deep knowledge of PLC programming is not required. The device also includes an SD card for data backup, on which all parameters are stored. It enables time-saving gateway configuration in the event of replacement, ensuring high plant availability through minimized downtime.

The ASi-3 gateway not only saves time during configuration—the extremely narrow housing design of only 37.9 mm width saves space in the control cabinet and reduces associated costs. The gateway is available as a single or dual master for two ASi lines. A total of 31 (standard addressing) or 62 (extended address assignment) devices can be connected to one gateway. The devices can be flexibly connected to the gateway via a flat cable, which ensures power supply and communication.

This means that the AS-Interface gateway can be optimally used in numerous applications—whether controlling roller conveyors in logistics centers, automated baggage handling at airports, or automatic bottle filling. The ASi device is connected to a control system via the ASi gateway. By connecting G20 ASi modules via an ASi gateway to a higher-level PLC, 24 V motorized rollers in logistics centers, for example, are driven so that packages move smoothly along the conveyor line. The PLC controls the logic of the conveyor line (e.g., which direction the packages should take on the transitions) and sends the process data image to the ASi gateway. This forwards the process data to the G20 modules. AS-Interface offers network lengths of several hundred meters as well as complete topology freedom, whether star, line or ring. This makes it the ideal solution for the cost-effective integration of decentralized inputs and outputs into a control network.

• Simple and convenient commissioning and diagnostics via mobile devices due to integrated web server
• Suitable for use in IoT applications: REST API interface enables simple data access in parallel with fieldbus communication
• Extremely slim housing design creates more space in the control cabinet
• Multiprotocol: PROFINET and EtherNet/IP in one device