Product Description:

The IE6002-1001 is a serial communication extension module produced by Beckhoff within the IE Extension Box Units series. Designed as an RS232 interface node for EtherCAT-based machine networks, the unit provides a single-channel serial port that allows legacy sensors, barcode readers, and operator panels to be integrated into distributed control architectures. By placing the port directly in the field, the module shortens cable runs and permits protocol conversion without additional cabinet hardware.

The module presents its serial interface on a screw connection terminal that carries the 24 V supply and signal ground. Communication conforms to the RS232 electrical layer, and the transceiver operates in full duplex, permitting simultaneous send and receive streams over the five-conductor line. The frame format is fixed at 8 data bits, no parity, and one stop bit, matching common PLC programming tools. Line quality is monitored internally, and the permissible bit distortion is < 3 %, so cabling and terminations must maintain clear waveforms across the specified distance. One control and status byte together with five user data bytes frame each message, and the single channel occupies minimal address space in the controller.

At power-up, the serial port is preset to 9600 baud, which allows standard terminal software to communicate without initial reconfiguration. Incoming characters are held in a 128 byte receive buffer, while outgoing data is staged in a 16 byte send buffer; these capacities help protect transactions from PLC scan-time variations. A galvanic barrier rated at 500 V isolates the line driver from the logic domain, enhancing noise immunity in electrically active machinery. Cabling is accomplished through a 5-pin M12 socket that carries the transmit, receive, and ground legs along with auxiliary handshaking. Because only one channel is present, channel mapping remains simple during setup.