CNC module reduces machine wiring costs A new terminal type I/O module will help machine builders speed up the wiring process, improve machine wiring reliability, and help to reduce the costs of new machines or retrofit applications. A new terminal type I/O module from GE Fanuc Automation will help machine builders speed up the wiring process, improve the overall reliability of machine wiring, and help reduce costs when manufacturing new products or during retrofit applications.

The new terminal type I/O module connects directly to any GE Fanuc CNC via GE Fanuc's high speed serial bus, FANUC I/O Link. Each module provides 24 inputs and 16 outputs.

Up to four modules can be linked in a group, allowing a maximum of 96 inputs and 64 outputs. All I/O connections to the module are easily made to newly designed, spring-loaded, terminal blocks which can be pre-wired and push-mounted onto the boards in the I/O module.

This speeds up the wiring process and provides a more reliable connection. The connecting wires will not become loose as a result of vibration, improving overall machine reliability.

The I/O module can be directly mounted on a DIN rail. Since it is compact and the terminal block is mounted on the I/O module, it will take up less space in the electrical cabinet of the machine.

Also, the distribution boards normally required for GE Fanuc's other I/O devices are no longer required. As well as the Basic Module there are three extension modules, one offering higher output power and another an interface with a manual pulse generator.

The new I/O module is designed to minimise the likelihood that a fault will ever occur. Internal hardware protects it from damage due to grounding, over-voltage, over-current, and over temperature.

The output circuit is optically isolated from the controlling device so excessive voltage in the signal does not damage the control circuit or any other device in the CNC system.Wire break is also detected.

If one of these conditions is sensed by the hardware, an alarm will occur protecting the hardware from damage. Individual LEDs for each I/O device indicate the status of that device; these LEDs and the alarm data sent back to the CNC will assist in locating any problem quickly.