 News
 March 2010
 SIGMATEK MSR System with VARAN
Measuring, Control, Regulation in a New Dimension
SIGMATEK has introduced an innovative MSR system to the market, which through its modularity, is predestined for the most varying tasks in measurement and control technology. The real-time Ethernet VARAN provides the perfect communication system for the decentralized use of the MSR system. All measurement values in the entire system can be recorded and processed synchronously with the highest possible data security.
The flexible and modular construction provides a tailor-made configuration of the MSR system
The innovative MSR system from SIGMATEK is, through its modularity, predestined for the most varying tasks in measurement and control technology. It can be equipped with up to 8 base modules, each of which has 8 measuring channels. A flexible configuration is therefore created, with up to 192 digital or 64 analog I/Os.
The MSR system can be configured as needed for any task, so that all required measurement values can be collected and processed. The various channels of the measuring modules can be assembled for recording various measurement values (4..20 mA, +/- 10V, etc.) specific to the application. An extraordinary variety is achieved through mountable modules from Dataforth.
All common measurement and control values can therefore be decentrally processed with the highest precision and a cycle time of up to 200 µs. The conversion time is 25 µs per channel (40 KHz). Resistance to interference is ensured through galvanic isolation of the measuring channels. For analog I/Os, Lemo connectors with Push-Pull locking are used.
VARAN real-time Ethernet provides the highest data security
The real-time Ethernet VARAN provides the perfect communication system for the decentralized use of the MSR system. All measurement values in the entire system can be recorded and processed synchronously with the highest possible data security using VARAN. All MSR system data can therefore be easily accessed by a higher-level data management system. The initial start-up is also made simple through VARAN, since the measuring modules are identified during the runtime automatically.
MSR System employed in aviation
The SIGMATEK MSR system is already in use at TEST-FUCHS GmbH, one of the leading companies in test systems for air and space flight. Hydraulic components for all market-relevant civilian aircraft can be tested using this system. |
|
October 2009
VARAN Speaks SAFETY
In machine building, manufacturers increasingly rely on real-time Ethernet for the exchange of Safety-critical data. With the real-time Ethernet system VARAN, Safety and standard data can be exchanged in the same bus system and the separate wiring of Safety components, which has been needed until now, is therefore unnecessary.
The functional machine safety is currently often a topic, since by year's end, the new ISO 13849 machine guidelines will be mandatory. Due to this change in the standards, users are demanding a complete automation solution with integrated safety technology. In this context, the exchange of Safety-relevant data is becoming increasingly important. The real-time Ethernet bus VARAN is perfect for automation systems, which must comply with SIL3 according to IEC 61508 or Performance Level PL e according to ISO 13849 respectively. Safety-relevant and standard data are exchanged in the same bus system, and this without affecting the data transfer speed at the shortest cycle times.
Construction of a VARAN frame with integrated Safety data 
For communication of Safety data, the "Black-Channel" principle is used, whereby the bus does not assume any Safety-relevant tasks but serves only as a single channel exchange medium. The Safety protocol is imbedded in the standard VARAN frame. In the VARAN Safety telegram, the data and addresses are coded twice and saved through a check sum (CRC) and a timestamp. Thereby faulty data is clearly detected during communication.
The Safety in- and output modules can be distributed in the VARAN network as desired. In a network, several Safety controllers can be implemented, which can each control several networks at the same time. Safety-relevant control tasks can be implemented centrally or in a decentralized configuration. The connection to decentralized Safety modules is also made over the VARAN bus.
For communication between the different periphery components within a machine, a uniform system can be used; complex separate wiring is no longer needed. An integrated complete solution is therefore achieved, which includes Safety technology as an integral component. For the user, a real competitive advantage is provided through considerably simplifying the engineering of machines and significantly reducing the time and cost required for certification.
Flexible System Structure
Line, star and tree structures can be combined as desired. This open architecture provides the user with extraordinary flexibility – also with later expansion of a machine or plant. Thanks to VARAN's hot-plug capability, entire machine components for example, can be connected to or removed from the production line after configuration or during operation. With the Multi Manager structures, data is exchanged between the network segments in hard real time with a maximum jitter of 100 ns. Different cycle times in the individual networks are also possible; the networks synchronize automatically.
VARAN: Fail safe and Error Tolerant
With the real-time Ethernet system VARAN, the toughest demands of drive technology are easily met. Data is exchanged with the highest real-time performance and error tolerance. This seamless communication ensures greater precision and efficiency.
The VARAN Bus is based on standard Ethernet physics. The VARAN protocol was implemented completely in the hardware at the FPGA level. VARAN works with the Manager/Client principle, whereby collisions in the bus system are avoided. At the start of each bus cycle, the participants are synchronized. The VARAN bus functions in hard real time with guaranteed determinism at cycle times of less than 100 µs and jitter of less than 100 ns.
In the VARAN protocol, measures are taken to improve the error tolerance. With individual frames, every bus participant is addressed by the VARAN Manager separately. All messages are confirmed by the client components within the same bus cycle. Communication errors are detected immediately and unacknowledged messages can be repeated within the same bus cycle, therefore the consistency of all process data at the end of the bus cycle is guaranteed. |
|
April 2009
 Compact in Hard Real Time
VARAN I/O Module VDM 086
With the compact VARAN VDM 086 I/O module from SIGMATEK, fast digital I/Os can be implemented in a decentralized configuration. The module has 8 digital outputs with read-back capability. The VDM 086 can therefore also be used as an input module. Per output (24 V positive switching), inductive loads up to 2 A can be controlled, which for example appear in hydraulic or pneumatic valves. The outputs are short-circuit proof and therefore are protected against polarity reversal. The status of the VDM 086 supply voltage can be determined through a simple status query. In addition, each channel has an LED that signals the switching status. The compact I/O module also finds a place u nder limited space conditions.
Over the VARAN-Out port, the VDM 086 can be integrated into various VARAN network topologies. With the real-time VARAN Ethernet bus, the digital signals can be processed with bus cycles under 100 µs. At the end of the bus cycle, all data are guaranteed to be consistent. |
|
February 2009
 Theory and Practice
The first VARAN Seminar was a Success
Make real-time Ethernet tangible was the motto of the first VARAN seminar at the Gersberg Alm in Salzburg. Representatives from the various branches of automation used the opportunity to learn more about the advantages of VARAN bus technology.
 In addition to the fundamentals of the real-time Ethernet bus system, the seminar participants also learned about the possibilities and necessity of specified connection technology. A further focal point addressed the possibilities for implementing client and manager solutions.
The user report given by Dipl-Ing. Martin Schuller from the company Testfuchs illustrated the advantages that the VARAN bus provides for testing and measurement technology in aviation. The goal of this project was to connect self-contained measuring stations over several network segments in hard real time and to implement a large number of I/O nodes with maximum data security.
In the workshop, participants were introduced to the safe and easy function of the VARAN bus. Seminar participants also independently tested the various service and diagnostic possibilities of the VARAN bus using the comfortable VARAN Service Tool. |
|
November 2008
 VARAN Coupler Module
Networked Machine Segments in Hard Real-Time
VARAN allows complete production processes to be constructed modularly. SIGMATEK's new VBC 021 bus coupler module connects two independent VARAN networks at the field level. Data is exchanged in hard real-time over a simple DPRAM function. Cycle times of less than 100 µs are possible, whereas different cycles times can be implemented in the network segments. Both independent VARAN Managers communicate over easy to implement driver components. The jitter is, as with all VARAN components, under 100 ns. Over the IP port of the VBC 021, both networks can be accessed using standard Ethernet protocols. The connection to the company network is also made over this port. Because the basic VARAN process already prevents unauthorized access, no additional security measures are required. On the application level, the data to be released must only be defined; VARAN takes care of everything else. Additionally, the module has two splitters that can be used for both networks independently.
The data is exchanged in hard real-time with a deterministic response. The networks are synchronized automatically with a PLL function; distributed clocks according to IEEE 1588 are not required. This simplifies the synchronization and reduces costs. The full Hot-Plug capability with VARAN allows entire cells in the production line to be connected or disconnected during operation. |
|
October 2008
 VARAN Measuring Bridge Module
High speed precision measurement with IP65 protection
The new VARAN PVAI 011 measuring bridge module from SIGMATEK is used for precision measurements in hard real-time. With a 12-bit resolution, measurement values from scales, force, pressure, acceleration, torque and temperature sensors are transmitted within a few µs.
The IP65 protected measurement value converter can be placed directly in the field level near the sensor, eliminating the effects of electrical noise on measurements. Due to the short length of VARAN frames, data can be resent within the same bus cycle in the event of an error. The extremely robust VARAN bus system makes it possible to implement highly dynamic regulation with deterministic properties. The user is thus provided with a safe and complete system for fast precision measurements.
The power for the electronics and sensors is supplied over the VARAN BUS USER ORGANIZATION-certified 8-pin M12 connector (2 reserve pins) with the corresponding hybrid cable, which was designed for harsh industrial conditions. Since only one connector is required for power and bus signal transmission, connection errors are practically eliminated. In addition, costs and assembly time can be reduced. The measurement recorder is also connected over an M12 connection system (4-pin). |
|
October 2008
New Member on Board
Hilscher enhances the VNO
 The company Hilscher is a service provider in the industrial comunication
technology branch. "Many of our customers, who have chosen netX as their communications
platform,
would also like to support VARAN in addtion to other real-time Ethernet
systems." says Dipl.-Ing.
Alexander Ockert (Engineering), Hilscher Ges. für Systemautomation mbH.
|
|
August 2008
More Motion for the VARAN Bus
Danaher Motion enhances the VNO
 "A high flexibility in connecting to network environments has always been a distinctive feature of Danaher's servo amplifiers. As a manufacturer of drive technology systems, it is especially important for us to participate in trend-setting developments in real-time Ethernet systems and implement these in our products. With its open standard and high reliability, the VARAN bus is an interesting option for Ethernet-based bus communication." Siegfried Fischer, Product Manager of Standard Drives Danaher Motion GmbH. |
|
May 2008
The DIV 511 Interface Module
Simple Connection to the VARAN Bus
With the DIV 511 interface module from SIGMATEK, decentralized DIAS I/O components can be connected to the VARAN bus. Existing components that use the DIAS bus can be easily adapted to the real-time Ethernet technology; only the software interface on the application level has to be exchanged. Previously completed development work can therefore be cost-efficiently reused with a conversion to the real time VARAN Ethernet technology.
In addition to the power supply for decentralized components, this interface module is equipped with a VARAN-Out port. This feature allows line structures to be easily configured. A further advantage is that the I/O data from the DIAS module components is collected and sent over the VARAN bus at the same time. The VARAN bus technology offers high data security, stands out with its simple function and provides large capacity reserves for future development. |
|
January 2008
The VARAN Field Bus Gateway CIV 521
Multifaceted connecting options and simple integration
The CIV 521 interface module connects the world of field bus systems to the real-time Ethernet VARAN bus comfortably and flexibly. The multi-language device communicates with all current field buses, from CAN to RS232.
 The VARAN field bus interface always finds the right connection
The Gateway CIV 521 expands a VARAN bus network with numerous standard interface connections. In addition to the integrated VARAN splitter, which allows configuration of linear structures (1x VARAN-In and 1x VARAN-Out), the module has a standard Ethernet interface that can be used for servicing or integration into an office network. The CIV 521 also acts as a power supply for decentralized C-DIAS module groups.
The main task consists of integrating conventional field bus systems into the flexible VARAN bus network. The user has the possibility to unite both worlds. The module has a CAN bus, an RS232 and RS422/485 interface as well as DIAS, C-DIAS and TTY interfaces. These can be addressed over the isochronous, asynchronous or administration task of the VARAN bus.
SIGMATEK libraries are available for programming the interface connections, which allow the user to apply standard field bus instructions.
The commands are converted to the VARAN bus and output to the respective field bus interface connections automatically, allowing completed development work to be reused efficiently. |
|
December 2007
Successful Exhibition Presentation
A great deal of interest in the VARAN bus generated at the SPS/IPC/Drives
 The VNO can be very satisfied with the presentation at the SPS/IPC/Drives. The positive balance shows numerous interesting and concrete contacts.
The VNO was presented at the SIGMATEK GmbH & Co KG as co exhibit.
Visitors were especially interested in the implementation of Multi Manager Structures with the VARAN bus and the connection to conventional field bus systems. In addition to multi faceted questions regarding the implementation and the Hot Plug capability were often the subject of expert talks. |
|
November 2007
New VARAN Bus Products
Mixed digital module für IP67 and multi manager module
The SIGMATEK VARAN Bus product palette has been expanded with a mixed digital module for IP67 and a special manager module for creating multi manager structures. The new products can be seen at the SIGMTEK display at the SPS/IPC/Drives: Hall 7, Stand 370.
 Robust under any condition
With the “protected VARAN digital mixed module PVDM 085”, SIGMATEK expands its palette of VARAN bus products with an IP67 I/O module. The PVDM 085 has eight digital channels that can be configured as in- or outputs (24V/0.5 – 2A) and is protected against short circuits. The maximum continuous current allowed is 4 A.
The PVDM 085 also has an integrated distributor function (VARAN splitter) for extending the VARAN bus (linear structure). Thanks to the integrated power supply, a separate supply for the module electronics is not required. The module can also be powered over a separate socket as well. Each I/O socket is monitored for short circuits in the sensor voltage supply. The status is shown using LEDs and can be read back. Input filters are provided to suppress noise generated on signal lines.
 Multi Manager Networks
A highlight of the expanded SIGMATEK VARAN product palette is the VMC 052. The VMC 052 from SIGMATEK is a special VARAN Manager module, designed for creating VARAN Multi Manager structures. Using this module, several independent systems can be connected to form a synchronized network.
The user therefore achieves maximum modularity with machine and equipment configurations. Complete production cells, for example, can be connected while still in operation and automatically synchronized. Varying cycle times are also possible.
In addition to the standard manager function, the VMC 052 has an integrated VARAN client. This client has a DPRAM over which the real time data exchange between VARAN networks can be defined.
TCP/IP frames in a VARAN network are automatically distributed to all connected systems. TCP/IP traffic is therefore continuous throughout the entire Multi Manager VARAN network.
The malfunction of a connected network is recognized by the system immediately. The user can then take the appropriate measures. |
|
November 2007
VARAN-Bus – Ahead of schedule
VARAN-Bus Connection Technology
The VARAN BUS USER ORGANIZATION (VNO), component suppliers and machine builders are working at full blast. Numerous other machine builders are currently in the process of implementing the VARAN bus and at the coming exhibitions, several of these machines and components can already be seen.
The Right Direction
As an independent organization, the VNO supports members by providing the framework for an optimal system. An example of this can be seen in the support for defining device profiles that greatly simplify implementing the VARAN bus for suppliers and machine builders. For instance, the VNO recently released a new “length measuring system” profile. This profile covers a broad spectrum of components.
The Perfect Connection
The VNO has also been intensively working to create the perfect connection technology, since connectors and cables for real-time Ethernet in industrial automation require a significantly higher degree of robustness and quality as compared to office Ethernet;
The VNO certified connection systems meet the highest demands.
For the IP20 environment, the Harting RJ45 Industrial connector has been tested for its capability in harsh industrial environments.
To meet the demands of machine building companies for inexpensive wiring, solutions were developed for connecting field bus devices in the IP 67 world that require only one connector plug.
For bus participants with 24 V and a maximum current of 2 A, the 8-pin M12 connector from Phoenix Contact is used. For units with higher power that require a separate voltage supply, a new 8+4 power/Ethernet connector was designed by Tyco Electronics.
Corresponding hybrid cables are available for both variants.
At the SPS/IPC/Drives 2007 exhibition, SIGMATEK will be presenting these connector systems at their stand (Hall 7, Stand 370) in addition to the latest developments from their VARAN Bus product line. |
|
October 2007
The new Members Area is online
Strengthening the VNO internal communication
With the new Member Area, VNO members are provided with an attractive and up to date platform:
Forum: Here, members can participate in a brisk exchange of knowledge and information.
Current topics, FAQs and contact data
Download area: specifications, demos, service tools and logos can be downloaded here
|
|
August 2007 
New module profile defined
Simple implementation of VARAN length measurement systems
The VARAN Bus User Organization has passed a new module profile for length
measurement systems. This profile covers a large pallet of products and
applications, from simple potentiometer measurement systems to Trans sonar
length scales. The introduction of this profile allows different measuring
systems to communicate over a single defined interface. This raises the
exchangeability and lowers development time since, when switching between different systems, few or no changes are needed in the software. With the
clear and simple profile construction, almost now computing power is
required and the cost is reduced. Scales that have implemented this profile are
already available at the company BALLUF. |
|
April 2007
New Members on Board
Another step forward
Bosch Rexroth, Festo, Harting Electric and Herrmann Ultraschalltechnik – these are the four new members of the VARAN-BUSER-USER ORGANISATION (VNO). They will actively strengthen the pool of automation and component suppliers as well as users.
Diploma Engineer (FH) Andreas Kurz, Manager Software Development/Control Engineering with Herrmann Ultraschalltechnik GmbH & Co. KG:
The deciding factor for choosing the VARAN bus system as the preferred industrial Ethernet in Herrmann Ultrasound Technology’s control systems was, the technical aspect of the hard real time capability combined with deterministic cycle times of less than 1 ms. Further more, the relatively low costs coupled with the fast time to market provide an economic advantage and will ensure a competitive edge in the future. |
|
March 2007
VARAN Implementation
Road map for component suppliers and machine buildings
What is the process for acquiring a certified VARAN module?
What do I need as a user to build a VARAN bus system?
The most essential steps for implementing VARAN are now available.
<< more >> |
|
December 2006 
SIGMATEK: VARAN service tool and infrastructure
Simple start up and maintenance guaranteed
At SIGMATEK, the VARAN bus is fully integrated into the LASAL2 software programming environment. The specially designed VARAN service tool contains a highly effective result-controlled bus analysis tool. Filtering functions can be freely defined, providing the highest flexibility for parameterization as well as for display and analysis of results. A hex editor is provided for simple editing of memory areas and can be opened in several windows. An additional component of the service tool is the SPI Flash programming. It is used for start up and maintenance as well as in production and includes password-protected programming of the FPGA and module data as well as editing of the VARAN module type label. Setting up of module-specific parameters is also possible. Electronic data sheets can also be stored in a VARAN module. For production, a serial programming function is provided.
The backbone of the service tool is the VARAN tree: the existing VARAN bus structure whether tree, linear or mixed is recorded and displayed automatically. The analysis tool, hex editor and SPI Flash programming tool can be started with selection-dependent presets such as the module address range from the VARAN tree tool.
The safety management expansion module is integrated into the VARAN service tool.
For customer-specific solutions, drivers (ANSI-C) that can be easily ported with various operating systems are available. A model-implementation for Microsoft Windows 2000 and XP is also provided. |
|
December 2006 
SIGMATEK’s safety solution takes off
TÜV certification in spring 2007
Protecting people and machines is the goal of the VARAN safety concept. With SIGMATEK’s scaleable safety solution, both standard and secure communication run over the VARAN bus. Since the cable requirement is minimized, costs are reduced.
The open VARAN bus technology with simple read/write instructions remains uncomplicated. Even with new VARAN safety link cycle times of less than 100 µs are achieved. The secure, single channel I/O modules communicate over the VARAN bus directly, without effecting the existing application.
Through parameterization of the VSO 011 safety output module, logic connections can be made (i.e. emergency stop, light grid…). The safety components are fully compatible with standard VARAN units.
With the calculated error probability, VARAN safety SIL 3 corresponds to IEC 61508 standards. The complete safety conversion meets category 4 of EN 954-1 and PL e of the prEN ISO13849 standard. The TÜV certification is planned for April 2007. |
|
November 2006 
Award for the VARAN Bus
Winner of the Salzburg Innovation Award 2006
SIGMATEK can celebrate placing first in the category for small and mid-sized companies. The project, VARAN Real-time Ethernet bus, was awarded the annual prize for innovation given by Salzburg as well as the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce. The following criteria were evaluated for the presentation: degree of innovation, development risk as well as research and development expenditure. The innovation should be useful for both the company and the customers as well as improve quality and provide cost savings. Companies could receive additional points with market success already achieved, setting new trends and increasing competitiveness. In relation to economic effects, the creation of new jobs and increased exportation were considered. |
|
November 2006
Salzburger Innovation Award 2006
The VARAN bus is nominated
“Innovation is the best answer a company can give to the increasing pressure of international competition”. Under this motto, the Salzburg Chamber of Business honors prominent companies whose innovations stand out in the Austrian and international markets. SIGMATEK is proud to have the VARAN bus counted among the nominees for the 2006 Innovation award, which will presented for the 16th time. |
|
October 2006
Two New VNO Members
Balluff and KEBA focus on VARAN
The VARAN BUS USER ORGANIZATION (VNO) is pleased to welcome two new members:
For Manfred Münzl, Business Development Manager at Balluff GmbH, VARAN offers a real cost advantage.
“For Balluff, crucial for deciding in favor of the VARAN bus was that the customer could integrate an industrial field bus in their machine practically, and most of all, economically. Various Ethernet standards currently available on the market, while offering the user advantages, can only be custom fit for sensor/actuator platforms at a relatively high cost. An Ethernet protocol that offers actual real-time capability for sensor platforms at comparably lower costs is without a doubt the VARAN bus.”
Klaus Kafka, Product manager for industrial automation at KEBA AG, puts focus on the active participation in the further development of VARAN.
“KEBA is a control manufacturer with an open strategy regarding existing RT Ethernet systems so that we can offer our customers optimal system solutions. And naturally VARAN is counted among these RT Ethernet systems. For us, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest VARAN developments and allow our own ideas to be included. This is best accomplished with a membership.” |
|
October 2006
 Cooperation between CAN in AUTOMATION and VNO
CANopen device profiles for VARAN
Salzburg (Austria), Erlangen (Germany). The VARAN  BUS USER ORGANIZATION (VNO) and the incorporated society CAN in AUTOMATION have agreed that the VARAN bus will also be used with the CANopen device profiles. The goal of this cooperation is to enable device manufacturers to easily connect existing CANopen subsystems with the VARAN bus. The existing CANopen device profiles can be easily integrated into the VARAN bus.
“ The CANopen profile family encompasses generic device profiles for I/O modules, electrical and hydraulic drives, as well as encoders and specific device profiles for extruders, web machines, multi-zone regulators and special sensors (i.e. cant sensors)“, explains Holger Zeltwanger, member of the CiA executive board. That’s why CANopen is highly accepted, especially in serial machine building.” Due to the bandwidth limitation however (max. 1 Mbit/s), CAN systems cannot meet all speed requirements; especially those for fast drive controls. With VARAN, the CANopen user has an Ethernet-based alternative available that enables extremely fast external data transfer.
“CANopen today offers one of the most comprehensive selection of device profiles for machine building. It wouldn’t have made sense for VARAN to reinvent the wheel”, explains Martin Schuller, the chairman for the VARAN Bus User Organization. “Unlike other organizations, CiA is not dominated by a manufacturer and could establish themselves in machine building. This fits well with the VARAN strategy of providing embedded real-time Ethernet to machine builders. In addition, both communication systems complement each other perfectly” |
|
October 2006
VARAN BUS USER ORGANIZATION FOUNDED
Martin Schuller named chairman
Salzburg. The independent VARAN BUS User ORGANIZATION was founded in July 2006. Martin Schuller, head of software development at TEST-FUCHS G.m.b.H., was named chairman of the VARAN Bus User Organization. His representative is Andreas Melkus, managing partner at SIGMATEK GmbH & Co KG.
 The first chairman of the VARAN BUS USER ORGANIZATION, Martin Schuller is convinced in the VARAN technology: “As one of the worlds leading companies in test equipment for air and space flight, we are always striving to implement the most modern measurement, control and bus technology. Since our equipment is used to test important components for civilian and military aircraft, we can make no compromises with data security. With the easy implementation process, high performance and outstanding data transfer reliability, VARAN combines all the properties that we expect from a bus system for measurement and control technology.” |
|
