EC: FL mGuard RS2000 and RS4000
Network Integration - Ethernet hardware: The new mGuard security devices feature improved hardware and easier configuration options, making it easier to support customers and add IT and security functions to an industrial network, even in a harsh environment. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice Awards Honorable Mention.
Control Engineering
The new mGuard line has improved hardware and configuration options. Like the original mGuard security devices, the new RS2000 and RS4000 variants provide all-in-one firewall, routing and virtual private network (VPN) capabilities in an industrial-rated package. This enables a machine builder, utility owner, or end user to provide network security, remote connectivity and other IT functions to the industrial network.
The RS2000 and RS4000 have metal housing and can operate between -20 C and +60 C, compared with 0 C to 55 C for the original RS variants. The RS4000 is currently awaiting UL Class I, Div. 2 approval, which will make it suitable for hazardous location environments, such as the oil and gas industry. The integrated SD card reader makes managing configurations much easier. Users can save a configuration on an SD card inserted in one mGuard. To use the same settings on another mGuard device, they can insert that card into a new mGuard. Even if the SD card is removed, the mGuard settings will remain, until reconfigured. The new hardware also features enhanced diagnostic and status information via LED and a 24 V output triggered on successful VPN initiation.
The RS2000 has a limited firewall ("accept all" or "drop all" options for incoming and outgoing traffic). The RS4000's security features include a full stateful inspection firewall able to filter traffic on Layers 2 through 4, a user-based firewall, CIFS Integrity Monitoring, redundancy options and other advanced features. The RS4000 VPN and RS4000 can be upgraded to 250 tunnels via a separately sold license. The RS2000 can support two tunnels. The security functions bring much needed protection to the industrial network, preventing unwanted or unnecessary traffic from affecting critical control and automation devices. The VPN provides an easy and cost-effective means for providing support and communication to remote equipment.
www.phoenixcontact.com/usa-home
Phoenix Contact
Case Study Database
Get more exposure for your case study by uploading it to the Plant Engineering case study database, where end-users can identify relevant solutions and explore what the experts are doing to effectively implement a variety of technology and productivity related projects.
These case studies provide examples of how knowledgeable solution providers have used technology, processes and people to create effective and successful implementations in real-world situations. Case studies can be completed by filling out a simple online form where you can outline the project title, abstract, and full story in 1500 words or less; upload photos, videos and a logo.
Click here to visit the Case Study Database and upload your case study.
2012 Salary Survey
In a year when manufacturing continued to lead the economic rebound, it makes sense that plant manager bonuses rebounded. Plant Engineering’s annual Salary Survey shows both wages and bonuses rose in 2012 after a retreat the year before.
Average salary across all job titles for plant floor management rose 3.5% to $95,446, and bonus compensation jumped to $15,162, a 4.2% increase from the 2010 level and double the 2011 total, which showed a sharp drop in bonus.