Many machine builders like decentralized motion control solutions because they simplify machine design and assembly.

Braunschweig, Germany, August 1, 2012 --- Today, Metronix launches

safety-equipped versions of its unique decentralized drive solution DIS-2,
which can be used as a smart drive or mounted on a servo to create a
standalone smart motor. The compact new module provides a versatile and
cost-effective drive and control capability for automation engineers and
machine builders.

The new Safe Torque Off functionality (PLe category 3 according to ISO
13849-1) provides machinery and automation builders with a highly-affordable
means of delivering advanced machine safety features to their customers.
This safety feature is also becoming highly valued in the machinery
marketplace as it typically increases machine uptime.

Since its launch the DIS-2 has become one of Metronix's most popular
products. The rugged decentralized positioning control and drive module has
also become a favorite option in this segment of the motion control market
as it does not restrict users to particular brands of servo motor, and it
can be mounted either directly on the motor or remotely to suit the
available space.

Many machine builders like decentralized motion control solutions because
they simplify machine design and assembly. For example, by integrating the
motor and encoder connections inside the module, DIS-2 reduces the cabling
normally required. When used as a decentralized drive it also allows machine
builders to reduce the size of automation control cabinets.

DIS-2 drives can be used for speed, torque and positioning control to
provide very cost effective solutions to many common processing and
packaging requirements. The range of potential applications is very broad
and includes simple automation solutions for common manufacturing functions
such as synchronizing and sorting, materials handling and conveying systems,
robotic unmanned trucks, and axes that automate auxiliary functions such as
set up and guarding on machine tools or printing presses. Modular machinery
or plant automation - which can be assembled easily to suit specific
applications by combining modular elements - are also common applications
for this form of decentralized motion control technology.

The DIS-2 can be easily integrated in automation solutions by digital and
analog interfaces as well as by exploiting DIS-2's integrated field bus
communication interface. To realize multi-axis systems for higher
performance and more complex movements such as interpolated motion, CANopen,
PROFIBUS and EtherCAT fieldbus networking interfaces are available.

As standard, DIS-2 modules are available with two choices of output ratings:
2A continuous/6A peak with a 230/115 VAC power supply, or 15A continuous/40A
peak with a 48 VDC power supply, and come with built-in digital and analog
I/O, Safe Torque Off capability, an RS232 port, plus a universal encoder
interfacing capability that allows connection to Hall sensors, resolvers,
analog/digital incremental encoders, or single/multiturn absolute encoders
with HIPERFACE. Users can also select any one of three fieldbus options:
CANopen, EtherCAT or PROFIBUS. A powerful Windows-based programming,
configuration and diagnostic software tool is available to users to create
embedded drive and machine control software for Metronix DIS-2 systems.

The modules are very robust and are protected up to IP67, and can be
supplied standalone, or ready-mounted onto the user's choice of brushless
synchronous motor. DIS-2 is very compact, measuring 5.6 x 8 x 11.2 cm (2.2 x
3.15 x 4.4 inches). Metronix offers mounting adapter plates for numerous
brands of servo motor - making it possible to configure systems for lowest
cost or optimum dynamic performance. The footprint of the new
safety-equipped DIS-2 is identical to previous modules, making it simple for
existing users to upgrade machine designs to take advantage of the new
functional safety capability.

Metronix has been producing motion control technology for industrial
machines and automotive applications for over 30 years. Its product range
includes smart servo drives with integrated positioning capability, plus
motion controllers and accessories that provide cost-effective solutions for
multi-axis motion control and automation, and decentralized machine control
requirements. A key feature of Metronix's motion products is their rich
networking and encoder interfacing capability, which ensures that drives can
be integrated easily into virtually any industrial system or machine - even
if an OEM has custom PLC or control hardware. This feature is highly valued
by many OEMs as it allows them to create and continue developing innovative
brands of machine offering unique features. Metronix complements this
capability with what is probably the most sophisticated and capable custom
drive engineering service on the market today. Motion control products
designed by Metronix are marketed under its own brand, and in custom forms
by a number of well known industrial OEMs.

The company additionally makes geophysical instruments and customer-specific
digital controls for measurement and control applications. Metronix is part
of the Apex Tool Group, headquartered in Sparks, Maryland, USA. The Apex
Tool Group has more than 7,600 employees in over 30 countries. Metronix's
design and manufacturing facility is located in Braunschweig, Germany.

For more information please contact:
Metronix Messgeräte und Elektronik GmbH, Kocherstrasse 3, D-38120
Braunschweig, Germany. t.: +49 (0)531 8668-0; sales@metronix.de;
www.metronix.de