GE Fanuc IC200ETM001

The GE Fanuc Automation IC200ETM001 is an expansion module designed to enhance the capability of VersaMax PLC systems by facilitating the connection of up to seven additional racks. Each rack can accommodate a maximum of eight input/output and field bus communication modules, thus significantly expanding the I/O capacity of the system. This module features a front-mounted 26-pin female connector for seamless integration with an expansion receiver module, as well as a 16-pin male serial port connector located at the upper left corner, which allows for firmware updates to be uploaded to the adjacent Network Interface Unit (NIU). The IC200ETM001 is equipped with a high-speed expansion interface and two LED indicators that provide real-time status updates: the power LED shows whether the module is receiving 5V DC power from the CPU or NIU, while the EXP TX LED signals communication status between the expansion transmitter and receiver modules.

The expansion receiver module is available in two variants: the Isolated module (ERM001) with a maximum cable length of 15 meters, and the Non-isolated module (ERM002) which supports an impressive 750 meters of cable length. Installation is straightforward, as the module mounts easily onto a DIN rail, attaching to the left side of a VersaMax CPU or NIU. The modules should be placed on a 35mm x 7.5mm DIN rail with an unpainted finish for proper grounding, and securing the rail with screws spaced six inches apart is recommended. The expansion rack ID, ranging from 1 to 7, is selected using a rotary switch located under an access door on the module. For setup, after inserting labels as needed, the power supply module is connected to the expansion receiver, followed by power activation to observe the LED indicators.

For removing the module, it is necessary to power down the rack and detach the power supply from the expansion receiver before sliding the module off the DIN rail and lifting it free with a screwdriver. The default data rate is set to 250 bits per second to accommodate the maximum cable length, with the option to adjust to 1 Mbit/second if the total cable length is under 250 meters and does not utilize any ERM002 modules. In an NIU I/O Station, the data rate is fixed at its default rate of 250 Kbits. The IC200ETM001 is a crucial component for enhancing the scalability and versatility of automation systems within the GE Fanuc ecosystem.