Parker revolutionizes machine I/O with release of new PCH Network Portal

Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, as part of its global focus on factory automation, today announced the release of a revolutionary network portal, The PCH Network Portal. The PCH Network Portal provides the opportunity to minimize machine costs, shorten start-up time and offers built in features to help reduce end user downtime in factory environments.

The PCH Network Portal is a new approach to ethernet communication modules that redefines and revolutionizes machine I/O architecture (inputs and outputs). As an ethernet node with IO-Link master capability that supports multiple Industrial Ethernet communication protocols, the PCH Network Portal can communicate with many industrial controllers in the automation industry. The product was engineered for flexible manufacturing applications where machine changes are common, PLC’s are not always accessible, and where obstacles on the plant floor make set up, configuration and troubleshooting time consuming. Classified as a Cyber Physical System for its ability to communicate across machinery, The PCH Portal offers maximum function integration, simplicity of use and significant architecture cost reductions.

“At Parker we understand the serious impact that lost time can have to the bottom line,” said Erick Rudaitis, senior market development engineer, Pneumatic Division. “The PCH Network Portal was designed with the machine builder, controls engineer, and maintenance technician in mind to improve efficiency at every stage of the machine lifecycle.”

The PCH Network Portal offers several important user benefits. The flexible design minimizes machine costs by using fast and storable configurations, power in and out connectors with safe power capabilities, and optional safe power zones. Intuitive and easy to use interfaces shorten start up time by taking advantage of new connectivity like Bluetooth technology, intuitive port pin configurations and built-in programming functions. Improved and streamlined diagnostics to the PLC offer localized troubleshooting and can help minimize downtime. These key features revolutionize and advance machine I/O technology on the plant floor.

The PCH Network Portal joins a portfolio of automation-focused solutions designed to increase productivity and efficiency, within the factory environment. Parker’s commitment to improving network connectivity and machine safety offerings continues with the addition of this revolutionary new product.

For more information about the PCH Network Portal, visit parker.com/PCHPortal.