Does the Keb C6 router work with Allen Bradley plc’s?
In fact, most of our Router users in North America are connecting to a Rockwell PLC. KEB’s Router connects to all Rockwell PLC platforms. The C6 Router used in conjunction with Combivis Connect software can setup a secure end-to-end VPN connection to your Allen Bradley PLC’s.
Does KEB’s router connect to a Rockwell plc?
The answer is YES! In fact, most of our Router users in North America are connecting to a Rockwell PLC. KEB’s Router connects to all Rockwell PLC platforms.
How does KEB’s connect work?
The initial authentication sequence is handled by KEB’s CONNECT servers. There are multiple servers located around the world to ensure reliability and maximum uptime. Once a VPN connection is established, the communication between the user and the Router is direct and does not pass through a 3 rd party server.
What makes the Keb C6 VPN router different from other VPN routers?
An important distinction is that the KEB C6 VPN Router is an industrial product, not a commercial one. The Router has a stainless steel enclosure and is designed to operate on 24VDC (9-36VDC). It is only 36mm wide and can either be wall or DIN rail mounted. The router contains no fans or moving parts and utilizes solid state memory.
What platform does KEB connect to?
KEB’s Router connects to all Rockwell PLC platforms.
What PLCs are compatible with the C6?
The C6 is fully compatible with third-party PLCs, including Allen Bradley, Siemens, and Schneider.
System Architecture
The C6 Router can be configured using two different methods. Configuration is possible using a local network connection or from an exported configuration data file via USB. Regardless of the method used, the required configuration methods will be the same. This example will illustrate how to configure the router using a local network connection.
Setting up VPN Connection to PLC
6. Setup VPN connection to C6 Router. Select “Connect” at the bottom of the Device access window or right-click on the C6 Router in the device tree and select “Connect VPN” to establish a VPN connection.
What are security parameters in KEB?
Further, security parameters can be defined in KEB’s CONNECT software. Users and groups can be created which define permission levels and timeouts. Individual users create unique passwords which are not shared. Firewalls, ports, and individual MAC IDs can be assigned to limit access.
What if the machine or control is in a remote location?
What if the machine or control is in a remote location? If there is cellular service, the answer is KEB’s 4G Cellular Router. The M-version has a mini-SIM slot that is compatible with with GSM networks worldwide
What is the biggest concern with remote connecting to a machine?
The biggest concern with remote connecting to a machine deals with the security of the connection and what is required in order to connect. The importance of security cannot be overstated and this is likely where different remote access solutions vary widely.
Is KEB re-audited?
But don’t take our word for it. In 2020, KEB was re-audited by ProtectEM, an independent company that specializes in industrial cybersecurity. The Router and, more importantly, KEB’s CONNECT server infrastructure and software were evaluated and found secure according to the IEC 62443 specification.
Does KEB charge for data usage?
KEB does not limit, throttle, or charge for data usage. This is one of the points where we are different. All investment costs are known and paid upfront.
Can antennas be placed on the outside of enclosures?
Various antenna lengths are offered which allows the antenna to be placed on the outside of the enclosure. Additionally, data transfer can be initiated via an SMS text so the system does not need to be online all the time. This reduces data usage and the fees that go along with it.
Is KEB C6 a commercial router?
An important distinction is that the KEB C6 VPN Router is an industrial product, not a commercial one. The Router has a stainless steel enclosure and is designed to operate on 24VDC (9-36VDC). It is only 36mm wide and can either be wall or DIN rail mounted. The router contains no fans or moving parts and utilizes solid state memory. The standard Router offering is capable of operation from 0°C … +50°C.
Step 1: Internet Access to Router
In order for Combivis Connect to set up a VPN connection, the C6 router must have internet access. The router acts as a VPN server and assigns the user PC an IP address within the VPN network ensuring a direct end-to-end connection using secure TCP/UDP ports and SSL/TLS protocol.
Step 2: Configure LAN Interface
Assign the LAN interface an IP address within the local PLC network. All Allen Bradley PLCs using EtherNET/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, etc. belonging to the subnet of the LAN interface can be reached via the VPN tunnel.
Step 3: Serial Port Configuration
Allen Bradley PLCs using serial protocols such as DF1, DH+, or DH485 can also be remotely monitored and programmed. Combivis Connect uses a virtual serial adapter to map to the physical serial port of the C6 router. Select the correct port setting.
Step 4: Register Router to Domain
Before the C6 router can be connected, too, the router must be assigned to the domain of Combivis Connect. Assign the router a name, and apply the settings.
Step 5: Connect to C6 Router
Once the router has finished rebooting, the router can be connected to. Simply select the Connect button to establish a connection. Once the router is connected, the Allen Bradley PLCs can be accessed via the VPN tunnel.
Step 6: Remote Access with RSLogix
At this point, RSLogix can go online with the PLC and program in desired Controller operating mode.
