Modicon M251 controller is high performance and compact

With its dual-core processor, the Modicon M251 can control machines with a consistently short cycle time, while simultaneously performing large-scale communication tasks. It is specially designed for tasks in which the controller needs to communicate simultaneously via Ethernet within the machine and at network level. With two Ethernet interfaces and an embedded Ethernet switch, it can communicate in parallel operation through two Ethernet networks and can also act as an Ethernet master in one of them.

As an alternative to the Ethernet master interface, a version is also available with CANopen master for a maximum of 63 slaves with otherwise identical functionality. All versions include a USB interface for programming as well as a Web server for integration into modern communication systems and remote access.

The Modicon M251 has an I/O expansion bus on the right side of the housing that is 10 times faster than traditional options. This bus allows flexible and customised expansion by plugging into the newly developed Modicon TM3 expansion modules. Up to 14 terminals can be added to a controller, with no tool requirements. The new safety system modules can also be added to the controllers via the I/O bus. Individual controller configurations can be created using standard I/O modules and safety relays in different configurations on the same expansion bus, without the need for additional, separately installed safety relays.

Additional communication modules can be added on the left side of the housing using the TM4 bus. With up to three additional modules, this controller offers more than enough capacity for customisation with additional interfaces to handle even demanding communication tasks.

Program and firmware data are saved on SD cards, so they can be ported or switched out without the need for a PC. Another feature is the ability to use a PC to install program and/or firmware data on the controllers even when they are powered off, for example when they are still in the packaging.

Engineering with the Modicon M251 is based upon SoMachine, the tool-based engineering suite for all the controllers of the MachineStruxure multi-controller platform. Controller programs can be created in the common languages of the IEC 61131-3 standard, and can be ported between the different Modicon controllers.

For more information on Schneider Electric and the Modicon M251 controller, please visit www.schneider-electric.com/uk.