Nematron Pointe Controller - Manual (Page 16)

Chapter 1: Introducing the Pointe Controller Pointe Controller User Guide
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1.1 The Node Controller Concept
Deployable, localized control with a high-speed, standards-compliant interface to
a larger network of devices – that’s the concept of a node controller.
The Pointe Controller is part of a new generation of control devices designed to
meet the needs of today’s more integrated world. It provides all of the features
and functionality of traditional PLCs together with advanced features that enable
it to become a node in a larger, more integrated system. That is the Node
Controller Concept – deployable, localized control with a high-speed, standards-
compliant interface to a larger network of devices. The design architecture
enables this advanced functionality to be implemented easily and seamlessly.
All of the key features of the traditional PLC are incorporated into the design of
the Pointe Controller. These key features include the following:
Real-time local control;
Embedded, high reliability electronic design;
Modular I/O;
Pluggable terminal strip connectors;
Ladder logic programming capability; and
Compact, DIN rail mountable package.
Pointe Controllers also incorporate many advanced features that are typically not
found in traditional PLCs. Some of these advanced features include:
Advanced visual flow chart programming capability;
Ability to mix flowchart and ladder programming;
Application program deployment over an Ethernet link;
Firmware update deployment and management over an Ethernet link;
Advanced communications for development, deployment, monitoring and
coordination within a networked system;
Remote monitoring, programming and debug capability over Ethernet;
Powerful diagnostic tools for use during program development and
system monitoring;
Scalable solutions;
Remote Ethernet I/O options and ability to network Pointe Controllers;
Easy integration into larger systems and easy future expansion of systems;
Coordinated operation within a larger system;