Product Description:

The 7IF311.7 interface module is produced by B & R Automation for the System 2003 Controllers series. Installed beside the CPU, it adds serial communication capability to the PLC so external drives, sensors, or operator terminals can exchange status data and commands in real time. By occupying a single local slot, the module extends the controller’s flexibility without requiring separate fieldbus hardware.

In operation the module exposes 1 x RS232 communication channel that leaves the controller through a 9-pin DSUB plug on its faceplate. The link supports selectable data word lengths from 5 to 8 bits, one or two stop bits, and user-defined parity modes of none, even, or odd so it can align with legacy serial devices. At a maximum transfer rate of 115.2 kbit/s, the port covers the full speed range of standard asynchronous protocols used in diagnostics and low-bandwidth data acquisition. The circuit draws only 0.5 W from the backplane, therefore thermal loading inside the cabinet is minimal. Mechanical integration follows a screw-in module form factor that occupies CPU local slots 1, 2, or 3 without special carrier hardware. Because the protection rating is IP20, the unit must be mounted inside an enclosed panel, and its PLC-IF1 channel is not galvanically isolated.

Environmental limits define where the interface can be used. The board remains fully functional between 0 to 60 °C when installed horizontally, and relative humidity may be as high as 5 to 95% RH without condensation. For warehousing or shipment the permitted temperature span widens to -25 to 70 °C, allowing transport through unconditioned spaces. Handshaking on the serial line is provided by the dedicated RTS, CTS control leads, enabling hardware flow control so message integrity is maintained when peripherals cannot accept continuous data bursts.