Emerson FM-3 manual Introduction

Introduction

The FM-3 module is a compact and rugged function module that attaches to the front of the drive. It provides eight digital input lines and four digital output lines, in addition to the four input and three output lines available on the drive.

Unlike other function modules, the FM-3 module offers complex motion profiling. A complex motion profile consists of two or more indexes that are executed in sequence such that the final velocity of each index except the last is non-zero. Logical instructions between index statements can provide a powerful tool for altering motion profiles "on the fly". The FM-3 module defines complex motion by a configuration file that includes setups, function

assignments and programs. The configuration file is created using PowerTools Pro software1. Setup views have the same look and feel as dialog boxes. The wiring of input and output functions is done through assignments in the software. PowerTools Pro is an easy-to-use Microsoft® Windows® based setup and diagnostics tool.

Figure 1: EN Drive with FM-3 Function Module

Note that the drive’s firmware is disabled whenever a Function Module such as the FM-3 module is attached. Therefore, if the drive’s hardware is FM compatible, then the drive’s firmware can be any version because the programming features reside in the function module’s flash memory. Flash files used for firmware upgrades are available on the Control Techniques webpage.

The FM-3 module stores drive setup parameters within the module itself. This allows you to transfer the FM-3 module to another drive without losing setup parameters.

1.In this manual, Emerson Motion Control PowerTools Pro software will be referred to as PowerTools Pro.

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