Description
Product Overview
The ABB IEPAS01 is a dedicated expansion power supply module designed for ABB’s AC 500 PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) system, specifically for the PM5xx series of processor modules. This vital accessory ensures system stability and reliability by providing supplemental, isolated power to the controller’s expansion I/O modules. When the power demands of connected digital, analog, or special function modules exceed the capacity of the CPU’s internal power budget, the integration of the ABB IEPAS01 becomes essential. This module effectively extends the power capabilities of the AC 500 rack, allowing for larger and more complex I/O configurations without compromising performance. The design philosophy behind the ABB IEPAS01 is to offer a simple, plug-and-play solution for system scalability, ensuring that every module in the PLC rack receives clean and stable power. For engineers building robust AC 500 systems, the ABB IEPAS01 is a key component in achieving a reliable and fully-powered automation solution.
Product Parameters and Specifications
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Manufacturer: ABB
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Product Type: Expansion Power Supply Module
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Compatible System: ABB AC 500 PLC (designed for use with PM5xx CPUs, e.g., PM571, PM581, etc.).
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Input Voltage: Typically 24 V DC (standard for industrial control systems). The exact range (e.g., 19.2-30 V DC) should be verified in the datasheet.
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Output Power: Provides a dedicated, isolated power output specifically for supplying the I/O modules connected to the expansion bus. The exact wattage or current rating (e.g., several amps) is defined by the module’s specifications.
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Isolation: Features electrical isolation between the input power circuit and the output expansion bus, protecting the CPU and other modules from potential electrical noise or faults originating in the I/O circuits.
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Mounting: Installs directly onto the DIN rail within the AC 500 rack assembly, adjacent to the CPU or other expansion units, connecting via the system’s internal backplane bus.
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Diagnostics: May include LED indicators for power status (input OK, output OK).
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Ordering Code: IEPAS01 is the base model number; always confirm the full ordering code for the correct version.
Advantages and Key Features
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Enables System Scalability: The primary advantage of the ABB IEPAS01 is that it removes the power limitation barrier, allowing users to expand their AC 500 system with a large number of I/O modules, communication couplers, or special function modules without overloading the CPU’s internal power supply.
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Enhanced System Stability and Reliability: By providing a dedicated, clean power source for I/O modules, it prevents voltage drops and electrical noise on the bus, which can cause erratic module behavior or communication errors, leading to a more stable and reliable control system.
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Plug-and-Play Installation: The module is designed for straightforward integration. It snaps onto the DIN rail and connects seamlessly via the existing rack interface, requiring no complex wiring or configuration.
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Electrical Isolation: The isolation between input and output circuits is a critical safety and performance feature. It helps in grounding scheme management and protects the central CPU from disturbances on the I/O side.
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Optimized for AC 500 Ecosystem: As a genuine ABB accessory, the ABB IEPAS01 is fully tested and guaranteed to be compatible with all AC 500 components, ensuring optimal performance and preserving system warranties.
Application Case Studies
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Large Material Handling System: In an automated warehouse, an AC 500 PLC controls hundreds of sensors (photoelectric, proximity) and actuators (motor starters, solenoid valves) across multiple conveyors. The ABB IEPAS01 is installed to power the extensive digital I/O modules needed to interface with all these field devices reliably.
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Process Skid with Extensive Analog Control: On a modular chemical dosing skid, the PLC must read numerous 4-20mA signals from flow meters, pH sensors, and pressure transmitters, while also outputting analog signals to control valves. The ABB IEPAS01 supplies the necessary power to multiple high-density analog input and output modules.
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Machine with Distributed I/O Panels: For a large packaging machine, remote I/O drops using ABB’s CS31 or PROFINET couplers are placed near different machine sections. The central AC 500 rack uses the ABB IEPAS01 to provide ample power for these communication couplers and their associated local I/O modules.
Comparison with Competing Products
| Feature | ABB IEPAS01 (for AC 500) | Siemens PS 407/PS 405 (for S7-400) | Rockwell ControlLogix 1756-PAx (for ControlLogix) |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Role | Expansion power supply for I/O modules in a local rack. | Central or expansion power supply for S7-400 rack (powers CPU and I/O). | System power supply for ControlLogix chassis (powers all modules). |
| Architecture | Supplements the CPU’s internal power for expansions on the same base rack. | Typically the primary power source for the entire rack, allocated to slots via backplane. | Provides power to the chassis backplane, which is distributed to all modules. |
| Configuration | No software configuration required; purely a hardware component. | May require hardware configuration in TIA Portal to define current distribution. | No software configuration; sized based on total chassis power budget. |
| Key Benefit | Simple, cost-effective solution to scale I/O count on a single rack. | Provides high power capacity and redundancy options for large systems. | Modular, with different current ratings; allows for precise power sizing per chassis. |
| Selection Driver | Used when the CPU’s integrated power is insufficient for the desired I/O load. | Selected based on total rack current consumption, including CPU and all modules. | Selected based on the number and type of modules in a specific chassis. |
Selection Suggestions and Important Notes
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Selection Suggestion:
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Integrate the ABB IEPAS01 during the initial design phase whenever the planned I/O module count and their total power consumption are calculated to exceed the power budget provided by the AC 500 PM5xx CPU module.
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It is also a crucial spare part for troubleshooting. If an existing system exhibits intermittent I/O failures or module resets, an overloaded CPU power supply could be the cause, and adding an ABB IEPAS01 can resolve the issue.
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Always consult the AC 500 system planning manual or use ABB’s online configuration tools to calculate the total 24V DC current consumption of all I/O modules in the rack to determine if this expansion supply is necessary.
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Important Notes:
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Power Calculation is Mandatory: Do not guess the need for this module. Carefully sum the backplane current (5V/24V) requirements of all modules (excluding the CPU) as per their datasheets and compare it to the CPU’s rated output capacity.
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Correct Installation Slot: The ABB IEPAS01 must be installed in the correct slot within the AC 500 rack assembly (typically immediately to the right of the CPU or another power supply module). Refer to the hardware manual for the exact mounting position.
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Input Power Wiring: Ensure the 24V DC input power to the IEPAS01 is properly fused, wired, and sourced from a stable power supply, as it is the foundation for all connected I/O modules.
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Genuine Part: Use only genuine ABB IEPAS01 modules to ensure compatibility, reliability, and safety within the control system.
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