Modicon PLC(TM221CE40R) and Module(TM3DQ16R) Compatibility/Voltage Differences

[Alfredo_banoi]

Hello everyone, I’m looking for some input on my current setup. I’m using a Modicon PLC, model TM221CE40R. I need to control 49 outputs, so I decided to use this PLC along with extension modules. My plan is to use the main unit, which has 16 outputs, and add three TM3DQ16R extension modules (each with 16 outputs), giving me a total of 64 outputs—more than enough, with some spare capacity. At any given time, a maximum of 2 outputs are active on the controller and 2 on each extension module, so 8 active outputs in total, though typically no more than 4 are used.

The extension module(TM3DQ16R) documentation states that it is compatible with the Modicon M221 logic controller, which includes my PLC. However, when I started ordering the modules, I noticed they require 24 V DC supplied via the bus connector for operation, while the PLC itself is powered by 100–240 V AC.

The documentation for the extension module also states the rated output voltage is 24 V DC and 240 V AC, while the PLC outputs are specified with a range: 5...125 V DC / 5...250 V AC. This has left me a bit confused.

My questions are:

1. Are the TM3DQ16R modules actually compatible with the TM221CE40R? Has anyone used this setup before?

2. Can I use 24 V AC outputs on the extension module, or am I strictly required to use either 24 V DC or 240 V AC as specified?

Thanks in advance.

[Bastian_Schmitz]

Yes you could use the Expansion Moduls together with the PLC. If you could configure it in Machine Expert Basic it will also work. But you need 24V DC to supply the Expansion Modules.

77mA per Extenstion

The controller has a 250mA 24V DC Output for sensors.

I would suggest to use better a aditional Modicon power supply for the extensions.

If you have relay outputs it will work with AC and DC. Regarding to this 24V AC should not a problem. If you want to switch solnoid valve coils or something like this it would be good to use a RC component