Maximize the efficiency and reliability of your automation system with the IDEC SX8R bus coupler module
Factory automation is intended to help manufacturing processes run more smoothly by nature. Automating manufacturing processes can increase work efficiency and productivity, raise workplace safety levels, mitigate labor shortages, and contribute to sustainable manufacturing activities.
To help realize factory automation, an important link in the chain of many remote I/O systems used at manufacturing sites is a bus coupler module.
IDEC offers the SX8R bus coupler module: a device that’s compatible with a wide variety of control signals and helps to save space, wiring time, and labor costs.
What is the SX8R bus coupler module?
We will explain the role of bus coupler modules in factory automation systems in terms of a remote I/O system.
I/O modules form the system alongside the main controller, such as a PLC, and act as input/output interfaces for each control device (switches, lamps, sensors, etc.). I/O modules are either housed with the controller (local I/O), or in a different location to the controller and connected via network cables (remote I/O).
Local I/O is also known as a centralized system, and remote I/O is also known as a decentralized system.
Remote I/O systems are commonly used in a variety of industrial applications, including for automated production lines, food and packaging equipment, machine tools, and logistics.
The control devices connected to the system may not all be in the same place – for example, on production lines or in logistics warehouses. Setting up a controller in each location would be inefficient and expensive. Connecting each control device to an I/O module using long cables would be complicated, take up space, and increase the risk of data transmission errors.
To build a decentralized remote I/O system, the I/O modules by themselves aren’t enough. Local I/O modules connected to the controller can share data directly. Remote I/O modules send and receive data via a dedicated communication module with network protocol support.
This is where the IDEC SX8R bus coupler module comes in.
So that I/O modules can transmit data between connected control devices and the controller, the SX8R bus coupler module helps to compile, interpret, and send the control signals.
The SX8R is made for factory automation systems that rely on stable communication between a central control system with a controller and the remote I/Os.
User-friendly features of the SX8R bus coupler module
1. Modular design and scalability
You can choose from a wide range of I/O modules, with the ability to expand to up to 15 modules. This allows for exceptional customization to meet diverse application needs. The SX8R supports up to 7 I/O modules, and by adding the expansion interface module, an additional 8 modules can be integrated.
With a total of 15 modules, the system can handle up to 480 digital I/Os, 120 analog inputs, and 60 analog outputs. This expansion capability provides flexibility in building a remote I/O system tailored to the scale of any automation setup.
The SX8R is compatible with over 40 IDEC FC6A MicroSmart PLC I/O modules, supporting a wide range of discrete and analog signals.
2. High level of safety
The SX8R bus coupler module and FC6A I/O modules are products that comply with PLC standards (IEC/EN 61131-2), have the CE/UKCA mark, and hold UL/cUL, UL 121201: Class 1 Div 2, and RCM certification. As such, they can be safely used in major global regions.
Depending on the location, industry, and operating environment, factory equipment can be exposed to extreme temperatures. The SX8R bus coupler module and the FC6A I/O modules maintain reliable performance in hot and cold environments, with a wide operating temperature range from -25°C to +65°C.
领英推荐
3. Simple, flexible installation
Installing the SX8R is simple for 2 key reasons: its compact size and the use of push-in terminals.
The SX8R can be mounted directly or on a DIN rail, so that it’s ideally positioned within your setup and takes up as little installation space as possible.
Wiring time can be reduced by as much as 55% with push-in terminals, compared to wiring screw terminals. There’s no need to loosen and retighten screws with push-in terminals – or to use a screwdriver at all.
4. Network compatibility and device communication
Enjoy support for EtherNet/IP (adapter), Modbus TCP (server), and CC-Link IE Basic (slave station), the leading networks for industrial use. Using these communication protocols, you can build a remote I/O system with a PLC or controller.
As the SX8R is compatible with multiple protocols, you can connect a controller (PLC) and a monitoring device (HMI) to the SX8R at the same time.
(Note: simultaneous connection of EtherNet/IP and CC-Link IE Basic is not possible.)
5. Easy setup and intuitive operation
SX8R Configurator is the dedicated settings software with the SX8R, offered as a free download from IDEC websites. It helps users configure the SX8R’s transmission settings and each module’s operational settings, and enables module status monitoring.
The SX8R Configurator program feels intuitive – even for first-time users. Start by using the ‘drag and drop’ function to create a layout of your SX8R and I/O module system. You can then configure each module’s operation via the user-friendly menu options.
How the SX8R could simplify industrial automation and remote I/O systems
Module configurations and I/O module setting parameters can be saved as project files for use in a future remote I/O system – a time-saving advantage during initial setup.
Once the system is operational, you can use SX8R Configurator to carry out monitoring and diagnostics remotely.
Information about each I/O module (on/off status for digital I/O modules, current values, set values and error information for analog I/O modules) can also be viewed remotely. If an error occurs, having data on the error type and a proposed solution can reduce the amount of system downtime.
Where does a remote I/O system fit into your factory automation plans?
The SX8R bus coupler module has the compact design and convenience needed in industrial settings. IDEC’s remote I/O system solutions offer control device compatibility, network connectivity, and flexible expansion.
IDEC offers the SX8R bus coupler module and the FC6A I/O modules globally. Visit your regional IDEC website to read the product catalog and explore your options.