I conducted research on the port configurations for the RX3i and 90/30 PLCs, as a customer is seeking to establish communication with the RX3i using the 90/30 (DB15) cable we offer. After reading a post on the GE Automation & Control forum by Russ (http://forums.ge-ip.com/showthread.php?p=60395#post60395), I am hesitant to confirm if the RX3i and 90/30 share the same communication compatibility. Prior to responding to my customer, I want to verify this information.
While the pins may be identical, the compatibility of the Rx3i hinges on the specific protocol you intend to utilize. It's worth noting that the SNPx protocol is not supported by the Rx3i. Find more information on this topic in the GE IP forums: http://forums.ge-ip.com/showthread.php?t=8149&highlight=snpx.
Hello Steve, I appreciate it! I will make sure to share this information.
A user named geniusintraining stated that they are trying to determine the configuration of ports in order to help a customer who needs to communicate with an RX3i using a cable designed for the 90/30 (DB15). Wondering if the RX3i and 90/30 have the same communication compatibility, the user referenced a post on a popular forum. While unsure, they wanted to confirm before advising the customer. It is essential to clarify which ports are being used in each CPU or system and verify the protocol being used. Trust in the expertise provided, as the user is committed to giving accurate information and ensuring the customer is properly taken care of.
RussB reassured: "Have faith in me, I will always lead you in the right direction." However, I have my doubts, as the saying goes, "I believe my lying eyes." Russ inquired about the necessity of a cable in their inventory that could communicate between 15-pin RS-485 ports. Admitting a lack of expertise in GE products, the customer forwarded an email about their experience with GE cables, thanking Russ and Steve for their reliable products. The customer mentioned purchasing an IC690USB901 cable for connecting to GE PLCS, successfully communicating with a 9030 PLC but facing difficulty with an RX3i PLC. Seeking clarification if the same cable could work for RX3i PLCs, the customer previously used a combination of USB-to-9pin and 9pin-to-15pin cables for connecting to both types of PLCs. It was assumed that the cables were plugged into the power supply's 15-pin port.
When connecting to an Rx3i PLC, it's important to ensure you are using a reliable serial cable, RS485/232 converter, and USB/serial converter. If your customer is having trouble connecting, there could be a few reasons for this. The port on the Rx3i may be faulty or configured for different settings or protocols than what is needed for communication. One key question to ask is what is connected to the other end of the cable. If it's a computer with Proficy Machine Edition, make sure the correct COM port is selected for communication. If using a non-GE HMI, it likely utilizes SNPx for serial communications, which the Rx3i doesn't support.
In response to your query, it's crucial to remember that while the RX3i and 90/30 may share a similar design, they aren't entirely compatible in terms of communication, especially when it comes to port configurations. That being said, using a DB15 cable between these two isn't always straightforward. However, with the right conversion adapter or cable - one specifically designed to convert the RX3i signal to one that a 90/30 can interpret - it might just work. I'd recommend contacting GE support directly to ensure you're getting the most reliable and accurate advice.
While I appreciate your caution before delivering information to your client, I do agree with your initial hesitation. Although the RX3i and 90/30 are both products of GE and may seem similar in some respects, the RX3i configuration is designed for more complex applications compared to the 90/30. Their communication protocols may also differ since they cater to different scopes of industrial control system applications. To ensure a successful connection, it would be more reliable to find a cable specifically designed for the RX3i or consider an adapter solution if possible. Make sure to double-check this with a GE representative or closest distributor to deliver the most accurate information to your customer.
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Answer: Answer: The compatibility of port configurations between GE RX3i and 90/30 PLCs for communication using a DB15 cable can be a point of concern. It is advisable to verify this information before confirming compatibility to customers.
Answer: Answer: The GE Automation & Control forum, specifically the post by Russ (http://forums.ge-ip.com/showthread.php?p=60395post60395), may provide insights into the communication compatibility between GE RX3i and 90/30 PLCs.
Answer: Answer: Prior to responding to customers, it is recommended to conduct thorough research on the port configurations of GE RX3i and 90/30 PLCs, considering factors like cable compatibility and communication protocols, to provide accurate information.
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