I'm looking to review the existing setup parameters for my Siemens drive. According to the Operating Instruction manual, a "PC Connection Kit" is required for this process. Although I've already downloaded the free "STARTER" software, I'm uncertain about the contents of the "PC Connection Kit." Is it merely an RS232 straight/null cable, or do I need to purchase something specific from Siemens? I checked their "Industrial Mall," but it doesn't seem to offer an option for account creation. If you're looking for guidance on connecting your Siemens drive and understanding the PC Connection Kit, this information may help clarify your next steps.
The official support website for Siemens is support.siemens.industry.com. This platform serves as a comprehensive resource for assistance. The Industry Mall acts like a product catalog, although it’s unclear what benefits come with having an account—it's likely that direct ordering isn't available. Which specific Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are you utilizing? My VFDs consistently support Ethernet connectivity, but I'm aware that some models from Siemens still rely solely on serial communication. Additionally, I haven’t encountered the W120 before; could you be referring to the S120 instead?
Unfortunately, none of the models we received come equipped with Ethernet connectivity. There is a DB9 port available, which is also utilized for communication with the Panel Display. According to the manual, it appears that I need to disconnect the Panel Display (model AOP3R for the W120) and then connect my laptop using the "PC Connection Kit." I have the PDF manual for the W120, but I do not have the G120 manual. It's important to note that the W120 was previously known as the Rubicon drive. Additionally, I have the standard G120, which I also need to connect in order to upload parameters from it. For further details, you can find the technical specifications of the VFD here: https://www.industry.usa.siemens.co...aspx#Robicon_20W_20Technical_20Specifications
The G120 drive features a "Power Module" (PM) and a "Control Unit" (CU). What are the specific types of these components? The latest CU models are equipped with a USB port alongside the traditional serial port, allowing for straightforward connection through USB. Notably, the W120 utilizes the CU230P-2 as its control unit, which also includes a USB port. Are the G120 and W120 equipped with operator panels like the BOP or BOP-2? If not, it’s advisable to consider purchasing one, as they are very affordable. The BOP can be used to adjust parameters (though somewhat inconvenient) and to view fault codes, which can be critical when trying to quickly restore drive functionality without waiting to set up a laptop with the STARTER software. Please note that the USB port is a feature of the latest CU models. Earlier iterations of the CU for the G120 did not include a USB port, so be sure to specify the exact model number for accurate information.
I recently completed the installation of the STARTER software, which was quite a substantial task. The W120 drive utilizes a DB9 connector for its operator panel. According to the manual's diagrams, even when using the Advanced Operator Panel (AOP), it still requires the "PC Interface Kit," which I may already possess. Unfortunately, I don’t have the manual for the G120 drive, so I’m uncertain about its operator panel setup or whether it's properly connected. It's worth noting that the G120 panel looks significantly different from the W120 panel; it features a round knob in the center. For reference, the control unit for the W120 is the CU240S DP, and the panel is designated as AOP3R. Another point of concern with the W120 panel is the fault display—it doesn't provide a date or time format but instead uses a confusing layout of ####:##:##:##. The W120 manual mentions, "The time stamp relates to relative time in milliseconds," which leaves me puzzled. When I launched the STARTER software, it didn't prompt me to specify the type of Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) I'm using. Instead, it displayed a note that read: "Please select DEVICE as the access point and set S7USB as the interface for the G120 with a CU2xx-2!" For now, I'm working on this off-site and will keep this thread updated with my findings once I return and try additional tests.
To achieve optimal results when configuring your system, it’s crucial to provide the exact type numbers for your components. For instance, for the Power Module, use PM240-2 11kW: 6SL3210-1PE22-7ALO and for the Control Unit, specify CU240E-2PN: 6SL3244-0BB12-1FA0. Begin your project setup by selecting the corresponding drive and control unit that match your existing hardware. Start by choosing "Insert Single Drive Unit," which will prompt you to specify the Control Unit. Next, use the "Configure Drive Unit" option where you'll be asked to select the Power Unit. If your specific components aren’t listed, you may need to download a device definition file to ensure compatibility. Initial configurations don’t need to be extensive, as you have the option to upload the existing configuration directly from the drive. Your primary goal is to establish an online connection with the drive. The term "access point" refers to the method by which you connect online. Navigate to "Options" and select "Set PG/PC Interface," then switch from S7ONLINE to DEVICE, ensuring you set DEVICE to USB. Once everything is set up, right-click on the drive within the project tree and choose "Connect Target Device." If successful, you’ll be able to upload the parameters from the drive seamlessly, streamlining your setup process.
It sounds like you're on the right track with the "STARTER" software! The PC Connection Kit usually includes more than just the RS232 cable—it's often a specific adapter that ensures compatibility with your Siemens drive's communication standards. You may want to check with Siemens customer support directly to confirm the exact requirements for your model. As for the Industrial Mall, if you can't create an account, you could reach out to their support team for help with purchasing the kit or even finding a local distributor. Good luck!
It sounds like you're on the right track with STARTER software! The "PC Connection Kit" typically includes an interface cable, and for many Siemens drives, it often is a standard RS232 cable, but it can also depend on the specific drive model you’re using. Sometimes the kit may include drivers or adapters as well, especially if you need to connect via USB instead of RS232. If you're unable to find these cables on the Industrial Mall, I’d suggest reaching out to Siemens directly or checking with authorized distributors—they usually have a better selection and can help ensure you get what you need for your specific drive setup!
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