The new C-more Micro-Graphic operator panels from Lamonde Automation provide a powerful and cost-effective alternative to text-based message displays. The panels are equipped with a 3.1in easy-to-read monochrome LCD display with 128 x 64 resolution. With 768KB memory and the ability to create up to 999 different screens (limited only by memory usage) the small panel can be configured to provide a very powerful user interface. Additional features such as five backlight colours which can be controlled, alarm handling and recipe downloads make this much more than a message display. If used for text, the display can handle up to 10 lines by 32 characters of static text or eight lines by 21 characters of dynamic text.
The C-more Micro is available with or without touch screen. Both models have 5 function keys with LEDs. The keys can be used for screen navigation or can be read by the PLC to trigger control actions. The LEDs can also be driven from the PLC logic. Two innovative bezels are also available which can be used around the base panel. One of these has 8 additional buttons (Menu, Escape, clear, Enter and 4 arrow keys) whilst the second also includes a full numeric entry keypad. When connecting to one of Automation Direct’s PLCs the unit is powered via the PLC communications cable. A snap-on 24Vdc power adapter is available for connection to other PLCs and can be offered with or without an additional serial port.
The configuration software has the same look and feel as that for the larger C-more HMI panels. Applications are very simply created and can be simulated within the development software. A library of graphics objects is also included. The software can be downloaded free or purchased on CD for just £20. C-more Micro costs just £109 without touch screen or £149 with touch screen.