27 September 2019

Just as Ethernet is gradually becoming a standard interface for PLCs, the demand for exchanging data with higher-level devices (SCADA) over the network and for integrating with cloud services keeps growing. To meet those demands, Weintek launched models with two Ethernet ports: the MT8073iE (7”), the MT8090XE (10”) and the cMT series, all of which were well received. To offer users a wider range of screen sizes, the MT8053iE was launched with two Ethernet ports and a 4.3” diagonal, the first of its kind in the MT8000iE range. Adding new I/O ports to such a small enclosure is always a challenge, because space is so tight. Weintek nevertheless managed it with the MT8053iE. The new model was developed on the basis of the existing 4.3” MT8050iE, and this new-generation MT8053iE has the same cut-out size as its predecessor. What is more, despite its small size, the dual-Ethernet architecture was implemented successfully, and users will be able to enjoy every advantage that architecture can offer. The dual Ethernet ports let the MT8053iE communicate over two independent networks: one port can connect to the controller and the other to the host computer, or be used for remote access (e.g. EasyAccess 2.0). Separating the networks not only rules out network interference and congestion in practice, it also improves the reliability and stability of data transfers, and does away with the security concerns.