PLCs, Power Supplies & Others

The Schneider PCI-85 Plus provides reliable computer-to-PLC connectivity for Modicon Quantum programming and diagnostics. This interface adapter converts USB or PCI bus signals to Modicon proprietary communication protocols.

Key Technical Specifications

Multi-Platform Connectivity

The Schneider PCI-85 Plus interfaces with Modicon Quantum, Premium, and Momentum PLC families using a single adapter. This multi-platform compatibility reduces spare parts inventory for facilities operating mixed Schneider control systems.

Engineers utilize this single adapter for programming, firmware updates, and runtime diagnostics across all supported platforms. The PCI-85 Plus eliminates the need for platform-specific programming cables.

Host Interface Options

This interface adapter connects to programming workstations through USB 2.0 or PCI bus interfaces depending on configuration. USB models draw power directly from the computer port, requiring no external power supply.

PCI bus versions install inside desktop workstations for dedicated programming stations. Both variants present identical functionality to the programming software, ensuring consistent user experience.

PLC Side Connection

The PCI-85 Plus connects to Modicon PLCs through a 25-pin D-Sub male connector. This connector mates directly with Quantum CPU programming ports and Premium terminal ports without additional adapter cables.

Locking screw posts provide secure mechanical retention in high-vibration environments. This robust connection prevents communication drops during online program editing or troubleshooting.

Protocol Support and Compatibility

This adapter supports Modbus, Uni-Telway, and Modbus Plus protocols natively. The PCI-85 Plus automatically negotiates protocol selection based on connected PLC model and programming software requests.

Modbus Plus support enables direct connection to Quantum 110 CPU 311 xx, 434 xx, and 534 xx series processors. Uni-Telway compatibility serves Premium and Micro PLC installations throughout Europe and Asia.

Communication Performance

Maximum baud rate reaches 19.2 kbps, matching Modicon PLC communication port specifications. This data rate supports full program upload and download operations within acceptable timeframes for typical program sizes.

The adapter buffers communication transactions to prevent data loss during Windows task switching. This buffering ensures reliable programming even on general-purpose laptops running multiple applications.

Optical Isolation Protection

The PCI-85 Plus includes 500 VDC optical isolation between the computer interface and PLC connection. This isolation barrier protects expensive laptop computers from ground potential differences common in industrial installations.

Isolation also prevents electrical noise from computer switching power supplies from coupling into PLC communication circuits. Field technicians experience fewer communication errors when connecting to grounded control panels.

LED Status Indication

Four front-panel LED indicators provide immediate operational feedback. A green PWR LED confirms proper power delivery, while TXD and RXD LEDs flash during data transmission and reception.

A red FAULT LED illuminates when the adapter detects protocol errors or cable faults. This visual indication accelerates troubleshooting without requiring software diagnostic tools.

Mechanical Design and Portability

Weighing only 0.18 kg, the PCI-85 Plus easily fits inside laptop carrying cases. Its compact dimensions of 85 mm x 55 mm x 25 mm occupy minimal workspace on crowded technician benches.

The molded ABS enclosure withstands drops and impacts common during field service activities. Strain-relieved cable entries prevent internal conductor fatigue from repeated flexing.

Software Driver Integration

Schneider provides native Windows drivers for the PCI-85 Plus compatible with Unity Pro, Concept, ProWORX 32, and Modsoft programming environments. Driver installation requires no special configuration beyond standard Windows device enumeration.

Legacy operating systems including Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows 10 all maintain driver support. This backward compatibility preserves access to older programming workstations.

Application Versatility

System integrators deploy the Schneider PCI-85 Plus across numerous programming and service applications. Typical uses include initial machine commissioning, control program modification, runtime data monitoring, and fault diagnosis.

The adapter also supports operator interface terminal configuration for Magelis and XBT series HMIs. This dual-purpose functionality maximizes value for maintenance departments supporting multiple equipment types.

Energy Storage and Configuration Retention

Internal non-volatile memory stores adapter configuration parameters during power-down cycles. The PCI-85 Plus retains baud rate, protocol selection, and termination settings without battery backup.

This configuration memory persists for over 10 years without applied power. Engineers remove the adapter from service and redeploy months later without reconfiguration requirements.

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