Description
HMS Networks AB7000-C Anybus Communicator CAN – Bridge CAN devices to mainstream PLC networks
The HMS Networks AB7000-C is part of the Anybus Communicator CAN family. From my experience, it’s a practical way to connect a CAN/CAN 2.0A/B device (sensors, drives, smart meters, custom controllers) to a PLC network without rewriting device firmware. You map the CAN frames once, and the Communicator handles the cyclic data exchange on the PLC side, which typically saves days of integration time.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty: 365 days
- Delivery: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
- Payment: 50% advance payment, full payment for delivery
- Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- CAN-to-PLC network conversion – Converts CAN 2.0A/B frames into PLC-friendly cyclic data, so legacy or custom CAN devices can live on modern lines.
- Graphical configuration – Typically configured via Anybus Configuration Manager, so you define CAN identifiers, timing, and data mapping without coding.
- Deterministic data exchange – You might notice stable update times once mapping is set, helping with motion, packaging, or machine safety interlocks.
- DIN-rail, 24 VDC – Industrial form factor with quick-panel mounting and standard 24 VDC supply for easy retrofit.
- Robust CAN handling – From low bitrates to 1 Mbit/s (typical), with proper bus termination and shielding practices supported.
- Variant-friendly – The CAN side is AB7000-C; the host-side interface depends on the chosen variant, which keeps your architecture flexible.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | HMS Networks Anybus Communicator CAN – AB7000-C |
| HS Code | 8517.62 (Data communication apparatus) |
| Power Requirements | 24 VDC nominal (typically 18–32 VDC), low power consumption |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +55 °C (typical for this family), 5–95% RH non-condensing |
| Communication Interfaces | 1× CAN (CAN 2.0A/B, bitrate typically up to 1 Mbit/s), 1× host network port (variant-dependent), 24 VDC power terminal |
| Signal I/O Types | Protocol data mapping only; no dedicated discrete I/O. Process data size depends on host network. |
| Installation Method | DIN-rail (EN 50022), compact housing for cabinet mounting |
| Dimensions & Weight | Approx. 52 × 120 × 65 mm; ~0.2 kg (typical for Communicator/X-gateway format) |
Application Fields
This unit typically shows up in machine building, packaging, material handling, and process skids where a CAN-based device needs to talk to a plant PLC network. A common scenario is integrating a CAN servo drive or a custom CAN controller into a PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, or PROFIBUS environment (depending on the host-side variant you select). One thing I appreciate is how it streamlines brownfield upgrades: you keep your proven CAN device, add the AB7000-C, and the PLC sees clean cyclic data.
Quick example from a customer: a packaging OEM used AB7000-C to map CAN scale readings into a PLC tag table. Setup took under two hours, and they didn’t need to touch the embedded code in their existing scale controller.
Advantages & Value
- Shorter integration time – Drag-and-drop style mapping vs. writing and validating custom firmware.
- Lower retrofit risk – Keep your proven CAN equipment; the gateway presents the data cleanly to the PLC.
- Flexible architecture – Choose the host-side network variant that fits your PLC brand and control strategy.
- Serviceability – Diagnostics LEDs and clear status help maintenance see what’s going on in minutes, not hours.
- Spares strategy – Standard 24 VDC/DIN-rail format and widely available accessories simplifies stocking.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet & mounting – Install on EN 50022 DIN-rail inside a ventilated panel; leave a few centimeters clearance for airflow.
- Power & grounding – 24 VDC supply with proper grounding; keep CAN shields and PE bonding consistent to avoid noise.
- CAN wiring – Use twisted-pair, observe polarity, and apply 120 Ω termination at both bus ends. Keep stubs short.
- Network side – Host port and addressing depend on the selected variant; match PLC settings (baud/role/address) one-to-one.
- Configuration – Define CAN IDs, bitrates, and data mapping in the configuration tool; validate with a CAN analyzer if needed.
- Routine maintenance – Check connector tightness and shield continuity quarterly; clean dust; keep firmware up to date when available.
- Safety – De-energize before wiring; ESD precautions on CAN and host connectors; verify termination before power-up.
Quality & Certifications
- CE and RoHS compliant; UL/cUL listings are common for this family (availability may depend on the exact host variant).
- Manufactured by HMS Networks, known for industrial communication reliability and long product lifecycles.
- Backed by our 365-day warranty and prompt replacement support.
Notes on Model Selection
AB7000-C identifies the CAN-side Communicator hardware (rev. C). Choose the matching host network variant (e.g., for your PLC platform) to complete the gateway. If you share your PLC brand and network, we’ll point you to the exact ordering code to avoid mismatches.
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