Question 1

Which is the software to program the Modicon M241?

Accepted Answer

The software to program the Modicon M241 is EcoStruxure Machine Expert (former SoMachine). In order to install this software you need to download "Schneider Electric Software Installer" from the next link: Schneider Electric Software Installer - setup | Schneider Electric Then you should be able to install EcoStruxure Machine Expert.The software EcoStruxure Machine Expert has a Free version after the 42 days trial, please check pages 14 and 16 for more information for the free version limitations:https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_Doc_Ref=DIA3ED2180701ENThe user that wants to use this software needs to have an account in our License Portal in order to register the software:https://www.se.com/ww/sites/corporate/en/support/software-licensing/user-login In the past the software was SoMachine and the latest version of this software was the SoMachine V4.3 SP2.The reference for SoMachine is the SOMNACS43:https://www.se.com/ww/en/product/SOMNACS43/somachine-software-v4-3-usb-drive-format/The firmware version of the Modicon M241 for PLC programmed in SoMachine starts in v4.0.x.x., the latest version of the firmware for SoMachine v4.3 is the v4.0.6.41 due to hardware changes. The firmware version of the Modicon M241 for PLC programmed in EcoStruxure Machine Expert v1.2.x starts in v5.0.x.x.The firmware version of the Modicon M241 for PLC programmed in EcoStruxure Machine Expert v2.1.x starts in v5.1.x.x. The firmware version of the Modicon M241 for PLC programmed in EcoStruxure Machine Expert v2.2.x starts in v5.2.x.x.If you install the EcoStruxure Machine Expert , please select also the installation of the "Controller Assistant" so you can check this information.In order to program the Modicon M241 you can use a miniUSB cable (TCSXCNAMUM3P or BMXXCAUSBH018) , a SD Card or an ethernet cable.

Question 2

How to download Vijeo Designer v6.1 (installer)

Accepted Answer

In this FAQ you can find attached the installer for Vijeo Designer v6.1.The software is divided in three (3) parts: Vijeo Designer V6.1.zip.001 , Vijeo Designer V6.1.zip.002, Vijeo Designer V6.1.zip.003 .Once we download the three (3) we will need to unzip one of the files to generate the folder with the installer of Vijeo Designer v6.1.Vijeo Designer v6.1 is not a free software we strongly recommend to work with the latest version of the software Vijeo Designer v6.2 and their Service Pack.We can not have in the same laptop/computer the software Vijeo Designer v6.1 and Vijeo Designer v6.2.If we have Vijeo Designer v6.1 licensed we can upgrade it to Vijeo Designer v6.2 but we need to buy the license with the part number VJDUPDTGAV62M.

Question 3

What is the maximum earth loop Impedance Zs value for the NSX circuit breakers used in the Powerpact 4 panel board?

Accepted Answer

The maximum earth loop Impedance figures can be found on the attached pdf files.16A to 250AThe standard MCCB's used for ratings of 16A to 250A with part numbers beginning with "PP4..." are identical to the NSX with thermal magnetic trip units.400A & 630AThe standard MCCB's used for ratings of 400A & 630A with part numbers beginning with "PP4..." are identical to the NSX with Micrologic 2.3 trip units.

Question 4

How to reset the PowerChute Network Shutdown (PCNS) v3.X, 4.X, 5.0, 5.1 web UI password, username, and authentication phrase.

Accepted Answer

Issue: Password error: unable to log on to PowerChute Network Shutdown web UI due to unknown username or password.Would like to change the authentication phrase use to communicate with the Network Management Card via the pcnsconfig.ini file. Product:PowerChute Network Shutdown (PCNS) v3.X, 4.X, 5.0, 5.1 For PowerChute Network shutdown version 5.2 and above see FAQ000274477Environment:All supported Operating Systems.Cause:Lost/unknown username or password for web user interface.Would like to change the authentication phrase use to communicate with the Network Management Card via the pcnsconfig.ini file. NOTE: if the password for the PowerChute VMware Virtual Machine is unknown see Schneider Electric FAQ000244469 Steps to reset root password on the AlmaLinux PowerChute Virtual Appliance (VM)Solution:To change your username, password or authentication phrase: 1. Stop the PowerChute service. On Windows open a command prompt as an administrator and enter the command net stop pcns1On Linux enter from command window enter sudo service PowerChute stop or systemctl stop PowerChute 2. Go to the group1 directory where PowerChute is installed. On Windows the default path isC:\Program files\APC\PowerChute\group1 On Linux the default path is/opt/APC/PowerChute/group1 3. Make a backup of the pcnsconfig.ini file - copy it to another directory and rename it to pcnsconfig-backup.ini. 4. Open pcnsconfig.ini in a text editor. 5. In the [NetworkManagementCard] section of the INI file, set the following lines with your new values: username = new username password = new password You can also enter the Authentication Phrase user for communications with the Network Management CardauthenticationPhrase= new phrase (note the capital P use with the word Phrase ) 6. Save pcnsconfig.ini. 7. Start the PowerChute service and log in with your new username and password. On Windows open a command prompt as an administrator and enter the command net start pcns1On Linux enter from command window enter sudo service PowerChute start or systemctl start PowerChuteThe acceptable characters for username and password are:• the alphabet in both lowercase and uppercase (a to z and A to Z)• numbers from 0 to 9• these characters: _!\"#$%&'()*+,-./:;<=>?@^`{|}[]~ During the installation of PowerChute Network Shutdown, passwords containing UTF-8 special characters may be accepted in the installer UI, but they are not correctly interpreted. This can result in login failures after installation. For more information concerning UTF-8 special characters see Schneider Electric FAQ000277557The password requires:• Minimum 8 and maximum 128 characters in length See NOTE 1 Below!• One upper and one lowercase letter• One number and special character• The username cannot be part of the password• Leading and trailing white spaces in passwords are removed• Passwords containing a white space are keptThe username must be between 1–10 characters.The authentication phrase must be 15–32 ASCII characters.NOTE 1: "The maximum allowed character limit for the password is 128, as documented in all our user documents. However, currently, PowerChute only allows 32 characters. During password setting/resetting, PowerChute will validate and allow setting a 128-character password. No errors will be displayed as part of the validation. However, users cannot log in with a password greater than 32 characters."NOTE 2: If the username or password do not meet the requirements listed above you will be unable to login to the PowerChute web interface. For security, the username, password, and authentication phrase lines will be deleted from the pcnsconfig.ini file when the PowerChute service is restarted.

Question 5

PowerLogic PM5000 Series (PM51xx, PM53xx, PM55xx, PM56xx) Modbus Register List

Accepted Answer

IssueRegister list for Modbus communication Product LinePM5110, PM5330, PM5340, PM5560, PM5563, PM56xx, PM57xx EnvironmentPower Meter Communications Modbus Register List CausePM5000 series register list is needed for Modbus communication ResolutionSee the attached documents for Register List. There are 2 files. One for the PM5100 and PM5300 series and the other file is for the PM5500, PM5600, and the PM5700 series.

Question 6

What are the Torque settings for NSX MCCB power terminals?

Accepted Answer

Torque settings for NSX MCCB power terminals are below:100amp and less rated frames = 10Nm125-250amp rated frames = 15Nm400-630amp rated frames = 50Nm These are for the top and bottom power terminals

Question 7

What does Internal Arc Classification A-F, A-FL and A-FLR mean?

Accepted Answer

Internal Arc Classification IAC A-F, A-FL and A-FLR are defined in IEC 62217-200 and help to define internal arc performance of medium voltage or high voltage switchgear.The following definitions are described as: A switchgear installation in rooms with access for authorized personnel, closed electrical service locationA-F switchgear front (F-front) only protection for usersA-FL switchgear front and side (F-front, L-lateral) protection for usersA-FLR all sided switchgear (F-front, L-lateral, R-rear) protection for users Ringmaster has A-F or A-FLR designationGenieEvo has A-F or A-FLR designationMCset has A-FL or A-FLR designation For more information on MV switchgear installation conditions with respect to Internal Arc Classification please visit Schneider web page.

Question 8

What are the Zs values for ComPacT NSX new generation circuit breakers?

Accepted Answer

Attached are the documents for the Zs values for the upper limits of the mccb in the Powerpact 4, I-line and standalone devices.

Question 9

How can I cable to the PNP and NPN type outputs for sensors / detectors, using the wiring diagram?

Accepted Answer

PNP and NPN type outputs are available as 3-wire sensors with a DC voltage power supply (the voltage limits are dependent on the specific sensor): PNP type: switching on the positive voltage load NPN type: switching on the negative voltage load These outputs are typical of photoelectric detectors, inductive proximity and other types of sensors.For a detailed explanation of PNP vs NPN, see the following FAQ: FA142566 PNP output The load (relay coil, contactor relay input, PLC input) must be connected between the "-" negative terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Sink. NPN output The load must be connected between the "+" positive terminal and the midpoint. The corresponding PLC input is Source. Some sensors have two PNP and NPN outputs (4-wire sensors) which are wired according to the diagram below.Note that we no longer sell sensors. Telemecanique Sensors, who were previously part of the Schneider Electric brand, were sold in 2023. You can go to their website - www.telemecaniquesensors.com - for more information, including contact details.

Question 10

What are the differences between snap-action and slow-break contacts in limit switches?

Accepted Answer

Note we no longer sell limit switches so the information given below is for information purposes only. You may still be able to buy Telemecanique limit switches (and some 9007 etc. ex-Schneider Electric ranges) but you'd need to go to them directly. This is their website for contact details and product information: www.telemecaniquesensors.com Snap actionThe speed of travel of snap-action contacts is not related to the speed of operation of the actuator. The actuator pretensions an "overcentre spring" mechanism and it is the spring tension which operates the contact once a certain tension has been achieved. This results in a very fast and assured operation of the contacts as the spring mechanisms "flicks" (or "snaps") over the trigger point and latches the contacts on. A similar action takes place on the release, i.e. as the actuator is released the spring tension reduces but the contacts do not move until the tension has dropped below a certain level, when the spring mechanism will snap the contacts open again.Slow BreakA "slow break contact" is one where the physical movement of the actuator is directly linked to the physical movement of the contact. This can give very precise positioning and synchronization of both make and break points but is susceptible to arcing and intermittent signalling at the crucial make/break position, where actuator movement is slow and/or erratic.Main differences between Snap Action and Slow BreakThe snap action contact mechanism inevitably creates a hysteresis effect, where the closing and opening of the switch have considerable overlap. Please see attached timing diagram example. This does not occur with slow break, as the movement of the contacts is directly linked to the movement of the switch / object.Slow break have a higher minimum actuation speed, to overcome the effect of sustain arcing on the contacts. Note that for applications that cause the switch to open a little and then re-close repeatedly / rapidly, this can reduce electrical durability over time.Both types commonly have positive opening N/C contacts (always check your switch to confirm), but snap action provide an assured signal at slower speeds, whereas slow break rely on the minimum actuation speed. This is why there is potential for intermittent signalling on slow break, if that minimum speed is not adhered to.Slow break can often switch bigger loads and offer higher electrical reliability values compared to snap action but please check product tables / data to confirm this on a case-by-case basis.Sequence of moving contactsTiming Sequence for "Snap Action". Note overlap of switching positions for different directions of travel.Timing sequence for "Slow Break". Note same position for make and break.

Question 11

How does the "Dead man's switch" or "Dead man's handle" position work on a controller handle?

Accepted Answer

Please note that we no longer sell joysticks, so this FAQ is for information only. Technological description The handle grip comprises a fixed part (lower section) and a moving part (upper section).Action on the upper part of the handle grip (pressing down) drives a sliding rod inside the control lever.This rod actuates a moving retainer which causes a change in electrical state of the contact element on the lower part of the mechanism, regardless of the position of the control lever. Operation In normal operation, the operator must maintain pressure on the handle grip to operate the machine.If the operator releases pressure (e.g. feels ill and passes out), even if they are still holding on to it, the electrical contact at the base will change state.

Question 12

What is the difference between the REFLEX mode and the POLARISED REFLEX mode on photo-electric sensors?

Accepted Answer

Note that we no longer sell these devices, this FAQ is for information only. Both systems comprise a transmitter and receiver (usually within a single-body sensor), and a reflector. The transmitter sends a beam which is bounced back by the reflector and detected by the receiver. An object passing through the beam blocks the reflection and triggers the sensing signal.REFLEX mode sensors may not be suitable for detecting reflective objects, as a shiny target may bounce the beam back to the sensor in the same way as the reflector. The sensor may not be able to tell the difference between the target and reflector and will therefore fail to detect the object. For maximum effectiveness the targets should be opaque or near opaque and should not be highly reflective in nature. However, the advantage of reflex mode sensors is that they give relatively long sensing distances.POLARISED REFLEX mode sensors have polarising filters over both the transmitter and receiving sensor. The filters are at 90 deg to each other which means that the receiver cannot see the transmitted beam as it will be blocked by the receiver filter. The reflector turns the polarised light waves through 90 deg so that the receiver can see them. Light bouncing off other objects is not rotated so it will not trigger the sensor. This means that the polarised reflex can be used to detect very reflective surfaces, even mirrors, polished metal and semi transparent materials. However, the sensing distance is shorter than REFLEX.

Question 13

What is the difference between PNP and NPN when describing 3 wire connection of a sensor?

Accepted Answer

Most industrial proximity sensors (inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic and photo electric) are solid state.The term solid state refers to the type of components used within the sensor. Solid state electronic components such as transistors are used to switch the output of the sensor upon detection of an object.Two specific types of 3 wire sensors are available; PNP and NPN. The difference is a result of the internal circuit design and type of transistors used. Refer to attached document for simple explanation of the two.A key point to observe is that PNP and NPN has nothing to do with whether the sensor is normally open (N/O) or normally closed (N/C), i.e. a PNP sensor may be either N/O or N/C as can an NPN be either N/O or N/C.Please note that the subject of this FAQ is specifically related to wiring PNP/NPN outputs for sensors, not to give a detailed understanding of transistor technology. However, for ease of understanding please see attached a page extracted from our Practical Aspects book, showing (in brief) transistor terminology and circuit diagrams. Further learning material regarding PNP and NPN transistors can be found online from several sources. Why two types?The selection of a PNP sensor verses an NPN sensor is determined by the nature of the circuit the device is to be used in. When used in a traditional relay type control circuit, it is normally possible to use either the PNP or the NPN type of sensor as shown below. PNP sensors tend to be more commonly used. WiringTraditional relay type control circuit; Use with a programmable logic controller (PLC).When selecting a sensor to be used with a PLC, it is very important that the sensor matches the type of PLC input card to be used.Two types of input cards exist, those that 'sink' current (also known as positive logic) and those that 'source' current (also known as negative logic). It is worth mentioning, that whilst the terms sinking / sourcing and positive / negative logic are well known in some industries, they are not always commonly used terms. It is therefore important to identify the type of sensor to be used with the PLC card based on the PLC manufacturer's documentation and / or wiring diagrams.Most common in Europe is the 'sinking' type of input, these will be used with the PNP sensor as shown below. Less common nowadays are input cards that 'source', these were popular in Asia and require the NPN type of sensor in order to operate correctly. Many modern PLC input cards can be configured and wired to be either 'sinking' or 'sourcing' although it will usually necessitate all inputs on a particular input card being configured the same. NOTE the dotted line in the following diagram is optional and may or may not be required, depending on your hardware/setup. The key wires to take note of are solid red, black and blue wires.

Question 14

What size overload do I use with a star delta starter ?

Accepted Answer

In the majority of cases, the overload of a star delta starter is fitted below the delta contactor with wiring connections to one side of each of the motor windings.The other side of the windings are connected to the line contactor. This means the motor load is split between 2 contactors but the overload only sees the current carried by one.It is not a 50/50 split but has to be calculated by a special formula which, simply put, means the overload and each of the delta and line contactors only “see” 0.58 x the motor current.This configuration of the overload is described as “inside the delta loop”. The overload will be rated at 0.58 x Motor Full Load Current ( Inom ). Example: A typical 415V 11KW motor has a full load current rating of 21A. for overloads mounted “in the delta loop” the rating will be 21 x 0.58A = 12.18A Sometimes, usually, in Type 2 configuration installations, the overload (often in the form of a motor circuit breaker such as a GV2ME** or similar) will bemounted upstream of the starter in the main supply cables.In this case all the current drawn by the motor will pass through the overload so it needs to be rated at 100% of full load motor current, i.e. in above example, 21A.

Question 15

What are the differences between 220VAC, 230VAC and 240VAC Mains Supplies and what voltage equipment should I use?

Accepted Answer

For many years, mainland Western Europe has used a mains electricity supply rated at nominally 220VAC 50Hz while the UK used 240VAC 50Hz.In 1994, the European Union state members decided to proceed with a voltage harmonisation at 230Vac. This meant that consumers could be sure that a product bought in the UK would work in another EU country, and vice-versa (when used with the correct plug adaptor). Since it wasn't economically viable to replace all existing grid switchgear to comply with the new 230V voltage level, the approach taken was to increase the tolerance of the supply in such way that will cover both existing 220Vac and 240Vac.Regarding the LV Grid hardware, nothing immediately changed with the voltage harmonisation.The new European tolerance values (230Vac +10% -6%) were chosen to cover all the existing supply voltages so any supply that was compliant before will be compliant after. However, across the years, as new grid switchgear is installed, the 230Vac nominal voltage is becoming more and more common. Regarding the end devices, before the harmonisation, the products were designed to 220Vac and 240Vac depending on where the item was going to be sold. After the harmonization, manufacturers started designing end devices according to new 230Vac nominal voltage, but you can still find 220Vac and 240Vac devices aimed for other markets other than European.Regarding the selection of products to be used in the UK, ideally it should have a nominal voltage of 230Vac. Due the historical reasons stated above, the 240Vac devices can be used with confidence.

Question 16

What are the differences between 380V AC, 400V AC and 415V AC mains supplies and what voltage equipment should I use?

Accepted Answer

For many years, mainland Western Europe has used a mains 3 phase electricity supply nominally rated at 380V AC 50Hz while the UK used 415V AC 50Hz.Currently, all Western European 3 phase supplies are classified 400V AC. In reality, there is no 400V AC supply unless you create one locally. 400V AC was a “standard” created during European "harmonisation" to give a single voltage standard across Western Europe, including UK and Irish Republic.Although the ideal would have been to have a single voltage there were too many political, financial and technical obstacles to reduce UK voltage to European levels or to increase European voltage to UK levels, so a new standard was created to cover both. This was achieved by changing the tolerances of previously existing supply standards. UK voltage to 415V AC +6% and -10% and European to 380V AC +10% and -6% (thereby creating a manageable overlap) and we would call these two combined 400V AC, despite the fact that nobody was intentionally generating at 400V AC!Depending on the voltage sensitivity of the product and the variance from nominal of the actual supplied voltage, it may not be advisable to use a 380V AC specific device in the UK or a 415V AC specific device in Mainland Europe etc. For instance a 415V AC supply can rise to as high as 439.9V AC and still be within tolerance, but the maximum assured rated voltage for a 380V AC product is only 418V AC. A 380V AC supply can drop as low as 357.2V AC within tolerance but the minimum assured voltage for correct performance of a 415V AC product is 373.5V AC. It may work perfectly well either way but it could be, technically, outside the specification of the equipment with obvious implications. A 400V AC product must be compatible with all voltages across this range.If a product is to be used in the UK a 415V AC rated device is ideal but either 415V AC or 400V AC products can be used with confidence.If a product is to be used in mainland Europe or Irish Republic a 380V AC rated device is ideal, but either 380V AC or 400V AC products can be used with confidence.

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