Nexto Xpress - Using the XP201 Digital I/O Expansion Modules

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This tutorial provides guidelines and procedures to enable the user to use the Nexto Xpress I/O expansion modules via the CANopen communication protocol, a feature widely used in automation applications.

Components

Software: Mastertool IEC XE 3.34

PLC: XP340

Expansion Modules: XP201

Tutorial Sections

1.  ARCHITECTURE 

2.  DEVELOPMENT

   2.1. Electrical connection and manual dip switch configuration

   2.2. Adding expansion modules in MasterTool

   2.3. Configuring CAN network and expansion module parameters

   2.4. Changing digital inputs and outputs

1. ARCHITECTURE 

In the architecture of this tutorial, the H terminals of both expansions were connected to the H terminal of the XP340's CAN port, and the L terminals of the expansions were connected to the L terminal of the Xpress. The controller's Ethernet port was also connected to the computer's Ethernet port. 

2. DEVELOPMENT

This tutorial will show the steps to use the Nexto Xpress I/O expansions through the CANopen protocol. All steps for inserting the protocol and using the expansions are illustrated, but it is worth emphasizing the importance of having the Nexto Xpress Series Manual and the technical specifications document of the expansions on hand, allowing consultation during application stages. This document will guide you on installation and physical connection of the modules, programming, and configurations in MasterTool.

2.1. Electrical connection and manual dip switch configuration

The expansions are powered by 24Vdc, connected at terminals V+ and V-, and the CAN network adapter connection to the PLC is made by connecting H terminals with H and L with L.

Important: Both the electrical connection and the dip switch configuration table can be found in the technical specifications document of the expansions, available in the Support and Downloads section on Altus's website.

https://www.altus.com.br/suporte/download/baixararquivo/AwQKVA==/2  

2.1.1. Internal termination configuration

Regarding the internal termination switch, it should only be activated at the ends of the CAN network, that is, on the CanOpen_Manager and on the last communication adapter.

CanOpen_Manager

Adapter

The internal termination on the expansion modules is activated via dip switch SW2.5.

2.2. Adding expansion modules in MasterTool

The .eds files of the expansion modules are available in the download center on Altus's website, under the "software" category, with the series "Nexto Xpress" and function "I/O Modules". 

After installing the .eds files on your computer, to add them to MasterTool just go to Tools and then Device Repository.

Important: Starting from MasterTool version 3.61, the .eds files described below will already be included in the software.

A new window will open. Click Install, select the expansion module files you are using, click Open, and then close this window.

Now, right-click on CAN, and then choose Add Device.

Initially add the Manager, which will be the PLC.

After this, right-click on Manager and add the expansions, one at a time.

2.3. Configuring CAN network parameters

The CAN protocol parameters can be configured by double-clicking on “CAN”. 

The same applies to the Manager and the expansions, where a tab will open allowing parameter configuration.

IMPORTANT: For the producer times (Heartbeat) of the CANopen_Manager and slaves, use the same time defined for the Maintask cycle.

The DIP switches on the expansion modules must be configured manually, according to the node ID configured on each module and the CAN communication baud rate.

2.4. Changing digital inputs and outputs

It is possible to change the state of the digital outputs and inputs of the expansion modules. To do this, go to the corresponding module's tab and click on the Prepared Value column, on the row of the specific output/input. After TRUE appears, press Ctrl + F7, and then Yes.