CC-Link IE Field Network – System Configuration for Digital I/O

Setting up the CC-Link IE Field Network for digital I/O allows you to connect and manage various digital devices, such as sensors, switches, and actuators, on a high-speed, reliable network. This guide explains how to configure your system to ensure accurate communication between digital I/O modules and the PLC, with steps covering module configuration, network setup, and addressing.

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1. System Overview and Digital I/O Network Requirements

To establish an effective CC-Link IE Field Network with digital I/O, ensure you have the necessary hardware and software.

Essential Components:

• CC-Link IE Network Module: Connects to the PLC and enables communication with digital I/O modules.
• Digital I/O Modules: Devices that handle digital inputs (e.g., on/off sensors) and outputs (e.g., relays, actuators).
• PLC Unit: Controls the digital I/O devices based on program logic and network communication.
• Network Cables and Connectors: High-quality Ethernet cables for stable, high-speed connections between devices.

Software Requirements:

• Programming Software: Mitsubishi PLC programming software such as GX Works3 for configuration.
• Network Configuration Tool: Often built into the programming software for setting up CC-Link IE Field Network parameters.

2. Setting Up the Network Topology

Design the network topology based on your system’s layout. CC-Link IE Field Network supports a variety of topologies, including star, line, and ring.

Choosing the Topology:

• Line Topology: Best for linear setups where devices are connected in a chain.
• Star Topology: Ideal for systems with centralized control, as each device connects to a central hub.
• Ring Topology: Provides redundancy by looping connections back to the PLC, which can prevent communication loss if a cable fails.

3. Configuring the PLC and Network Module

With the network topology determined, configure the PLC and CC-Link IE Network Module to manage data from digital I/O modules effectively.

Steps for Configuration:

1. Install Network Module: Attach the CC-Link IE Network Module to the PLC and connect it to the network using Ethernet cables.
2. Assign IP Addresses: Each device on the network needs a unique IP address. Set IP addresses using the network configuration tool to avoid conflicts.
3. Set Communication Parameters: In the configuration software, open the CC-Link IE Field Network settings and set communication parameters, including baud rate, data size, and refresh rate.

4. Adding Digital I/O Modules to the Network

Digital I/O modules must be added to the network configuration, allowing the PLC to recognize and manage each module.

Adding and Configuring Digital I/O Modules:

1. Open Network Configuration Tool: In GX Works3 or another compatible tool, navigate to the CC-Link IE Field Network section.
2. Add Digital I/O Devices: Select each digital I/O module by its model and add it to the network. Assign a station number to identify each module.
3. Configure Module Settings: For each module, configure parameters such as input/output modes (sink/source), input delay times, and output response times as required.
4. Define Device Addresses: Assign unique addresses to each digital I/O channel. These addresses will be referenced in the PLC program for control and monitoring.

5. Mapping Digital Inputs and Outputs in the PLC

Mapping digital I/O addresses to the PLC ensures accurate control over each device.

Steps of Mapping :

• Access I/O Mapping Settings: In GX Works3, go to the I/O mapping section and link each digital I/O channel’s network address to a device address within the PLC.
• Define I/O Types: Set channels as either digital inputs or digital outputs based on the connected devices.
• Assign Descriptive Labels: Label each input/output with its function, such as “Start Button” or “Relay Output,” to simplify programming and troubleshooting.
• Verify Connections: Once mapped, check each address to confirm it aligns with the physical device locations.

6. Testing the Digital I/O Configuration

After configuring the system, test the setup to ensure all digital I/O modules communicate correctly with the PLC.

Testing Procedure:

1. Activate Network Communication: In the PLC software, enable network communication to begin sending and receiving data from digital I/O modules.
2. Test Each Input and Output: Manually activate inputs (e.g., press a button) and observe the response on the corresponding PLC input address. For outputs, send test signals from the PLC and observe the activation of connected devices.
3. Monitor Status Indicators: Check the status LEDs on each module for signs of connectivity issues, such as flashing error lights, and resolve any detected issues.
4. Simulate Operational Scenarios: Test scenarios that reflect normal operation, such as machine start/stop, to validate that the system functions correctly under real-world conditions.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

When setting up CC-Link IE Field Network for digital I/O, connectivity issues or incorrect settings may arise. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Address Conflicts: If devices don’t communicate, check for duplicate IP addresses or station numbers in the network configuration.
• Incorrect I/O Mapping: If digital signals don’t register as expected, verify that I/O addresses in the PLC match the device addresses in the configuration tool.
• Network Stability: For intermittent communication issues, inspect network cables for damage or use diagnostic tools to detect any interference.
• Module Status LEDs: Refer to the module’s manual for LED status codes to understand specific error types, such as communication errors or module malfunctions.

Conclusion