Resolving Communication Loss Issues with 1769-AENTR Module and 5069-L330ER PLC

Question:

The 1769-AENTR modules are experiencing communication issues with the 5069-L330ER PLC, freezing about once a day. The loss of communication is observed from the PLC's perspective, as the web page is inaccessible from both AENTR ports and the modules do not respond to ICMP ping requests. The only solution to bring the AENTR back online is to power cycle the device. Interestingly, the AENTR can be temporarily disconnected while operating normally, and upon reconnection, communications are automatically restored. This issue is occurring across three remote IO racks, while other Ethernet devices like the PowerFlex750 and E+H flow meters (totalling 30 devices) are unaffected. Any suggestions for resolving this recurring problem?

Top Replies

Are you using managed or unmanaged switches for your network setup? If you are utilizing unmanaged switches, it is crucial to set up a unicast connection from the 1769-AENTR and all Ethernet/IP adapters to the PLC. Selecting multicast could potentially overwhelm the switches and result in communication issues with certain devices. Make sure to configure the connection properly to avoid any disruptions in communication.

How old are the 1769-AENTRs? We encountered a similar issue where the IO functioned perfectly until we updated the PLC firmware. After the update, the modules started dropping randomly, similar to what you're experiencing. Updating the AENTR firmware resolved the issue. There is some conflicting information in technical notes regarding these modules and updating Series A firmware to Series B. While one note advises against it due to a specific error, another note suggests it is okay. Despite the recommendation to replace the module with Series B in the conflicting note, we decided to proceed with updating the firmware and have been running smoothly without any problems for years. The first technote, accessible through TechConnect, indicates that it is acceptable to update Series A firmware to Series B: [link] On the other hand, the second technote, also available through TechConnect, advises against updating to correct connection error 16#0203: [link] One troubleshooting step to consider is ensuring that the firmware is updated to the latest version supported by the module. If you have a Series A module, start by updating to a Series A firmware. If that does not resolve the issue, then consider trying a Series B firmware.

A product notice has been issued for the 1769-AENTR due to potential issues within specific date ranges. For more information, please visit Rockwell's website at https://rockwellautomation.custhelp.com/app/answers/answer_view/a_id/1136614/~/product-notice-2022-09-001---compactlogix-1769-aentr-may-exhibit-16#0204-fault.

The 1769-AENTR is considered a legacy product and lacks a Unicast option. Joseph, please note that the two links provided are for the newer 1794-AENT module.

BachPhi mentioned to Joseph about the two links relating to the 1794-AENT module. Despite acknowledging this, BachPhi believed that recommending firmware upgrades could still be beneficial.

It sounds like an annoying situation, especially since you've got other devices functioning without issues. Have you tried updating the firmware on the 1769-AENTR modules and the 5069-L330ER PLC? Sometimes communication glitches like these are resolved through firmware improvements. Additionally, consider checking the network configuration and ensuring that the AENTR's IP settings don't conflict with other devices. It might also be helpful to look into potential electrical interference or even evaluate the cabling quality to ensure good connections. If you're still facing issues, you could reach out to tech support for more tailored troubleshooting. Good luck!

It sounds like a frustrating situation with the AENTR modules! Have you checked the firmware versions on both the AENTR and the 5069-L330ER PLC? Sometimes, bugs in older firmware can lead to these kinds of communication drops. Also, it might be worth looking into the network topology and ensuring that there are no issues with the cabling or switches that could affect just those modules. If all else fails, consider increasing the timeout settings for your communications to see if that helps stabilize the connection before the daily freeze occurs. Good luck, and keep us updated!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Why is my 1769-AENTR module experiencing communication issues with the 5069-L330ER PLC, freezing once a day?

Answer: - The loss of communication is observed from the PLC's perspective, with the web page being inaccessible from both AENTR ports and the modules not responding to ICMP ping requests. The only solution is to power cycle the AENTR device.

FAQ: 2. Is there a specific reason why the AENTR can be temporarily disconnected and reconnected to restore communications temporarily?

Answer: - It was observed that upon reconnection after temporary disconnection, communications are automatically restored. This might provide a clue to the root cause of the issue.

FAQ: 3. What could be causing the communication loss issues across three remote IO racks with the 1769-AENTR modules and 5069-L330ER PLC?

Answer: - While other Ethernet devices like PowerFlex750 and E+H flow meters are unaffected, a suggestion might be needed to identify and resolve the recurring problem specific to the AENTR and PLC setup.

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