Software simplifies subrack specification

A Schroff UK product story

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Mar 7, 2001

Schroff has come up with a software program that allows customers to configure individual subracks, plug-in modules, subunits and front panels.

Schroff has come up with a software program that allows customers to configure individual subracks, plug-in modules, subunits and front panels.

Developed for the proven europac PRO subrack, this novel configurator software known as 'Prof Konrad' also helps save time and money.

This is because designers wanting to create their own application specific solution from the wide choice of components available in the modular europac-PRO range, no longer need to resort to the catalogue and the time consuming process of searching for individual order numbers.

At the same time, mistakes that often occur with manual ordering are avoided.

Prof Konrad combines the knowledge and expertise of Schroff product managers and engineers in one easy to use software package.

The software guides the user through to a complete order list by means of questions relating solely to the user's product and application.

This guarantees that all of the 20 to 25 individual components required, such as side walls, module rails, covers, guide rails, front panels, handles and assembly components, slot together into the desired end product, while also taking appropriate account of EMC aspects and mechanical loading.

The user simply selects from predefined menu options, requirements such as height and width of the subrack, circuit board depths, EMC screening needs, stability criteria as well as special accessories such as handles, ESD clips and front and rear covers.

Prof Konrad supports each option with explanatory graphics.

The user obtains a parts list as output, containing all necessary individual components with order numbers and correct quantities for the number of subracks required.

In addition, the user can request drawings directly in DXF, DWG or IGES format.

The subracks can then be supplied either pre-assembled or as component kits, according to customer requirements.

In order to avoid any subsequent problems when mounting the subracks in complete systems, Prof Konrad uses graphics to ask for the exact positioning numbers of the guide rails to be integrated.

It can then pick up any nonfeasible positions in advance.