Connecting the Controller to a PC

Overview

To transfer, run, and monitor the applications, connect the controller to a computer, that has EcoStruxure Machine Expert installed, using either a USB cable or an Ethernet connection (for those references that support an Ethernet port).

NOTICE
	INOPERABLE EQUIPMENT Always connect the communication cable to the PC before connecting it to the controller. Failure to follow these instructions can result in equipment damage.

USB Powered Download

In order to execute limited operations, the M241 Logic Controller has the capability to be powered through the USB Mini-B port. A diode mechanism avoids having the logic controller both powered by USB and by the normal power supply, or to supply voltage on the USB port.

When powered only by USB, the logic controller executes the firmware and the boot project (if any) and the I/O board is not powered during boot (same duration as a normal boot). USB powered download initializes the internal flash memory with some firmware or some application and parameters when the controller is powered by USB. The preferred tool to connect to the controller is the Controller Assistant. Refer to the EcoStruxure Machine Expert Controller Assistant User Guide.

The controller packaging allows easy access to USB Mini-B port with minimum opening of the packaging. You can connect the controller to the PC with a USB cable. Long cables are not suitable for the USB powered download.

WARNING
	INSUFFICENT POWER FOR USB DOWNLOAD Do not use a USB cable longer than 3m (9.8 ft) for USB powered download. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, serious injury, or equipment damage.

NOTE: It is not intended that you use the USB Powered Download on an installed controller. Depending on the number of I/O expansion modules in the physical configuration of the installed controller, there may be insufficient power from your PC USB port to accomplish the download.

USB Mini-B Port Connection

Cable Reference	Details
BMXXCAUSBH018	Grounded and shielded, this USB cable is suitable for long duration connections.
TCSXCNAMUM3P	This USB cable is suitable for short duration connections such as quick updates or retrieving data values.

NOTE: You can only connect 1 controller or any other device associated with EcoStruxure Machine Expert and its component to the PC at any one time.

The USB Mini-B Port is the programming port you can use to connect a PC with a USB host port using EcoStruxure Machine Expert software. Using a typical USB cable, this connection is suitable for quick updates of the program or short duration connections to perform maintenance and inspect data values. It is not suitable for long-term connections such as commissioning or monitoring without the use of specially adapted cables to help minimize electromagnetic interference.

WARNING
	UNINTENDED EQUIPMENT OPERATION OR INOPERABLE EQUIPMENT You must use a shielded USB cable such as a BMX XCAUSBH0•• secured to the functional ground (FE) of the system for any long-term connection. Do not connect more than one controller or bus coupler at a time using USB connections. Do not use the USB port(s), if so equipped, unless the location is known to be non-hazardous. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, serious injury, or equipment damage.

WARNING

UNINTENDED EQUIPMENT OPERATION OR INOPERABLE EQUIPMENT

You must use a shielded USB cable such as a BMX XCAUSBH0•• secured to the functional ground (FE) of the system for any long-term connection.
Do not connect more than one controller or bus coupler at a time using USB connections.
Do not use the USB port(s), if so equipped, unless the location is known to be non-hazardous.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, serious injury, or equipment damage.

The communication cable should be connected to the PC first to minimize the possibility of electrostatic discharge affecting the controller.

To connect the USB cable to your controller, follow the steps below:

Step	Action
1	1a. If making a long-term connection using the cable BMXXCAUSBH018, or other cable with a ground shield connection, be sure to securely connect the shield connector to the functional ground (FE) or protective ground (PE) of your system before connecting the cable to your controller and your PC. 1b. If making a short-term connection using the cable TCSXCNAMUM3P or other non-grounded USB cable, proceed to step 2.
2	Connect your USB cable to the computer.
3	Open the protective cover for the USB mini-B slot on the controller.
4	Connect the mini-B connector of your USB cable to the controller.

Ethernet Port Connection

You can also connect the controller to a PC using an Ethernet cable.

To connect the controller to the PC, do the following:

Step	Action
1	Connect the Ethernet cable to the PC.
2	Connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the controller.