Hcmarc-0ct B & R Automation

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The B & R Automation Hcmarc-0ct is part of the HCM Maestro PLC Modules series and supports the ARCNET network protocol with a data rate of 2.5 MBaud. It uses token passing (ISO 802.4) as an access method and can support up to 255 nodes per network, with a maximum station distance of 6 km using amplifiers.

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Product Description:

The Hcmarc-0ct is a communication interface module produced by B & R Automation for the HCM Maestro PLC Modules series. Installed in a PLC rack, it links the controller to ARCNET field segments so distributed I/O and motion nodes can share deterministic data. By converting backplane signals into ARCNET frames, the module supports coordinated machine sequences and time-critical interlocks across multiple control cabinets in industrial automation lines.

The module transmits at a sustained rate of 2.5 MBaud, and access to the medium follows a Token Passing (ISO 802.4) scheme, so only the node holding the token can initiate traffic. When coaxial trunk cabling is used, the recommended impedance is 93 Ω. Matching this value minimizes signal reflections that could otherwise distort the Manchester-encoded ARCNET waveforms. A single coax segment may extend up to 300 m, allowing controllers to sit in remote enclosures without repeaters, and each such segment may host 8 active stations before signal loading requires an amplifier. The electrical layer also supports a twisted-pair option, providing an alternative where coax installation is impractical.

Network growth is handled logically and physically. An ARCNET domain supported by this module may contain up to 255 node addresses, keeping configuration tables manageable while still covering sizable plants. With inline amplifiers, station spacing can be stretched so the farthest device sits 6 km from the PLC cabinet, which benefits conveyor or pipeline installations with long corridors. For shielded two-wire media, a segment length of 120 m remains within the timing guard bands used by the ARCNET protocol, and although only 10 stations are permitted on that segment, deterministic token rotation is preserved because the propagation delay stays below the maximum slot time.

Access Method
Token Passing (ISO 802.4)
Coax Cable Impedance
93 Ω
Coax Segment Max Length
300 m
Coax Segment Max Stations
8
Data Rate
2.5 MBaud
Max Nodes Per Network
255
Max Station Distance (with Amplifiers)
6 km
Network Protocol
ARCNET
Twisted Pair Segment Max Length
120 m
Twisted Pair Segment Max Stations
10

Frequently Asked Questions about Hcmarc-0ct:

Q: What is the maximum data rate available on the Hcmarc-0ct PLC module?

A: The Hcmarc-0ct PLC module supports a maximum data rate of 2.5 MBaud for rapid network communication.

Q: Which network protocol is used by the Hcmarc-0ct PLC module?

A: The Hcmarc-0ct is designed for ARCNET protocol networks, enabling reliable distributed control.

Q: What is the maximum allowable length for a coaxial cable segment with the Hcmarc-0ct?

A: A single coaxial cable segment with the Hcmarc-0ct can be up to 300 meters long.

Q: How many nodes can be connected to the network using the Hcmarc-0ct PLC module?

A: The Hcmarc-0ct allows up to 255 nodes to be connected on a single network.

Q: What is the longest possible distance between stations using the Hcmarc-0ct with amplifiers?

A: When amplifiers are used, the maximum station-to-station distance on the Hcmarc-0ct network can reach 6 km.


Internal Product Review

  • ‘‘The Hcmarc-0ct from the HCM Maestro PLC Modules series by B & R Automation is an ARCNET network module featuring a 2.5 MBaud data rate with token passing (ISO 802.4) access. Supporting up to 255 nodes per network and both coaxial and twisted pair segments, it offers flexible integration for large-scale control systems. This module stands out for its reliable communication and scalable architecture.’’

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