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Programmable Controllers > DirectLogic Series P... > DirectLogic 405 (Sma... > Communications & Networking

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DL405 PLC Communications and Networking Modules

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PLC communication is a vital component of any control system. With the many networking options available, including Ethernet and serial, PLC systems need to have adequate ports and protocols. The DirectLOGIC 405 CPUs have built-in serial ports; optional modules can provide protocol conversions or additional communication ports.

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DL405 PLC - Communications Ports

Ethernet networking with the ECOM modules

The H4-ECOM100 module supports 10/100BaseT and industry standard MODBUS TCP/IP Client/Server Protocol
The ECOM modules use standard cables, hubs and repeaters, which are available from a large number of suppliers.
A virtually unlimited number of PLCs can be connected to an Ethernet network using ECOM modules.
This is the fastest data transfer rate we offer for your HMI or other Windows-based software.
Use DirectSOFT5 to program any PLC on the network, and when monitoring your operating PLC, you will see much faster updates with Ethernet and the ECOM module.

DL405 PLC Ethernet Communication Modules Overview

Choose your slot

The ECOM modules plug into any I/O slot of any local DL405 I/O base, including expansion bases when using the DL450 CPU.

The module maintains identification data, descriptive information, and communication parameters for PLC-to-PLC communications in flash memory. Disconnect power before installing or removing any PLC module.

H4-ECOM100 MODBUS TCP/IP support

The H4-ECOM100 supports the industry standard MODBUS TCP/IP Client/Server protocol in addition to the standard IP and IPX protocols. This allows the DL405 PLC with an H4-ECOM100 module to serve as a client (master) or as a server (slave) on a MODBUS TCP/IP Ethernet network.

The H4-ECOM100 can actively issue MODBUS commands to other nodes or devices on the MODBUS TCP/IP network or simply respond to connected MODBUS TCP/IP clients.

NOTE: The DL405 CPUs also support a MODBUS RTU master and slave module for connection to a MODBUS RTU network. These modules are documented in other sections.

Other DL405 Communication Modules

Serial networking with the D4-DCM
All DL405 CPUs support the D4-DCM Data Communications Module that can serve as a DirectNet master/slave, DirectNet peer, or a MODBUS RTU slave. The D4-DCM supports RS-232C and RS-422 communications. You can program the CPU through the DCM locally, or if a PC is the RS-422 master, you can use DirectSOFT5 to program any PLC on the network.
F4-MAS-MB - MODBUS Network Master module, MODBUS RTU Protocol, provides block read/ write and high speed table driven polling, up to 115,200 baud, cable not included.
F4-MAS-MBR - MODBUS Network Master module, MODBUS RTU Protocol, provides block read/ write and high speed table driven polling, port 1 up to 115.2 K baud, port 2 allows connection to a leased line or radio modem up to 1,200 baud, cable not included.
F4-SLV-MB - MODBUS Network Slave module, up to 115.2 K baud, cable not included.
F4-SLV-MBR - MODBUS Network Slave module, port 1 up to 115.2 K baud, port 2 is a built-in leased line radio modem up to 1,200 baud, cable not included

DL405 PLC Serial Data Communications Module Overview

Converters

The DirectLOGIC 405 (DL405) programmable logic controller (PLC) offers the following accessories for converting RS232 to RS422 or RS422/485 and for simple RS232C networking:

FA-ISOCON - Universal, isolated RS232C to RS422/ RS485 converter.
Switch selectable for ANTE (Automatic Network Transmitter Enable) or RTS/CTS handshaking, works with all DirectLogic PLC families and virtually any serial device. Isolation reduces network data problems caused by noisy environments. Power directly from the 5 V pins on most DirectLogic CPU ports, from a PLC base 24 VDC power supply, or from an external power supply. Cables and connectors to most COM ports (RJ12, DB9-female, DB25-male) provided. Integral DIN rail clamp or can be panel mounted. Manual included with product.
F2-UNICON - RS232C to RS422 converter.
Converts RJ12 RS232C port to a DB25 male RS422 port. Powered directly from the 5 V pins on most DirectLOGIC CPU ports. Includes 1 ft. cable with two RJ12 6P6C plugs, and DIN rail mounting kit. Includes manual with product.
NOTE: The F2-UNICON provides no signal isolation, so it is not recommended for noisy industrial environments.
FA-UNICON - In-line, DB25, RS232C to RS422/ RS485 converter.
Connectors provided for the D3-422-DCU and to connect a DirectLOGIC RJ11/ RJ12 RS232C port to a DB25 female RS422/ RS485 connector. Power directly from the PLC base 24 VDC supply or an external power supply. Connection to a PC RS232 COM port requires a custom cable. A pin 4-20 jumper is required on the FA-UNICON for DB9.
NOTE:The FA-UNICON provides no signal isolation, so it is not recommended for noisy industrial environments.
FA-ISONET - Legacy product not recommended for new designs. (Being replaced by FA-ISOCON).
Isolated RS232C to RS422/ RS485 converter. Works with all PLC families. Helps reduce network data problems caused by noisy environments. Powered directly from the 5 V pins on most CPU ports, from the PLC base 24 VDC power supply, or from an external power supply. Includes cable and DIN rail mounting kit. Includes manual with product.

NOTES:New option modules may not be supported by CPUs purchased prior to the modules release. Be sure to check for the latest firmware for your PLC. You can refer to the module specification page on our Web site for this information, or find it in our free catalog.
Here is the direct link to the Firmware Upgrade section of our Web site where you can find the firmware revision histories, the latest files and tools required to download the firmware into your CPU.