Protocol Converter

A DH+ (Data Highway Plus) Protocol Converter is a device or piece of equipment used in industrial automation and control systems to enable communication and data exchange between devices or networks that use the DH+ protocol and other communication protocols. DH+ is a proprietary industrial network protocol developed by Allen-Bradley (now part of Rockwell Automation) for connecting programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and other automation devices within an industrial setting.

Here are the key aspects and functions of a DH+ Protocol Converter:

1. Protocol Conversion: The primary function of a DH+ Protocol Converter is to bridge the communication gap between DH+ networks and other networks or protocols. It allows devices using DH+ to communicate with devices or systems that use different communication standards, such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or Profibus.
2. DH+ Network Integration: DH+ Protocol Converters typically feature one or more DH+ network interfaces to connect to the existing DH+ network infrastructure. This allows them to access and communicate with DH+ devices seamlessly.
3. Other Network Interfaces: These devices also have interfaces for other communication protocols. For example, they might have Ethernet ports, RS-232/RS-485 serial ports, or other interfaces to connect to different types of networks or devices.
4. Data Translation: The converter translates data and commands between the DH+ protocol and the target protocol. It ensures that data is properly formatted and understood by both sides of the communication.
5. Data Routing: In some cases, a DH+ Protocol Converter can act as a data router, directing data traffic between different networks or subnetworks within an industrial environment.
6. Data Monitoring and Diagnostics: Some DH+ Protocol Converters offer monitoring and diagnostic features, allowing users to track the status of the DH+ network and troubleshoot communication issues.
7. Real-Time Communication: These devices typically support real-time communication to ensure timely data exchange between devices, which is crucial in industrial automation and control systems.
8. Enhanced Interoperability: DH+ Protocol Converters enhance interoperability by enabling devices from different manufacturers that use various communication protocols to work together within the same industrial network.
9. Security and Access Control: Depending on the model and configuration, these converters may offer security features, such as access control and data encryption, to protect industrial networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

DH+ Protocol Converters play a vital role in modernizing and integrating older DH+ networks with newer industrial communication technologies. They allow organizations to leverage their existing DH+ investments while enabling communication with a broader range of devices and systems. These devices are commonly used in manufacturing, process control, and other industrial applications where automation and data exchange are essential.

The ANC-100e DH+ converters provide communications between newer Ethernet Technologies and DH+ legacy PLC-5s and SLC/504s

The ANC-100e is a pocket-sized, high performance, Industrial Rated Ethernet DH+ Converter.  Features include: Ease of Configuration via Web Interface and DH+ Auto Polarity Detection and DH+ Auto Baud Rate Detection.

$1,295 USD List.

20 min. theautomationblog review.

The ANC-120e is a competitive alternative to AB’s 17

Is an economical and high performance USB-to-Allen-Bradley Data Highway Plus converter interfacing major HMI, SCADA, PLC Programming packages to Devices on DH+. Its features significantly outperform AB’s 1784-U2DHP PLC Programming Cable operating at 12 Mg USB speed with the Controllogix Ethernet/IP Driver.
The ANC-120e works with all SCADA, MMI, PLC programming packages installed on your PC with USB direct access to the DH+ network and stations. These packages include RSLINX/LOGIX Classic & Enterprise with RSLOGIX 5/500, Wonderware DAServer & TCP/IO Server, Citect, and Kepware using Controllogix Ethernet/IP Drivers.
$1,295 USD List. 

20 min. theautomationblog review

http://theautomationblog.com/usb-to-data-highway-plus-using-the-anc-120e-a-lower-cost-alternative-to-the-1784-u2dhp/ for more detailed info.