IDEC FT1A Series User Manual

5: S PECIAL F UNCTIONS
5-46 S MART AXIS P RO /L ITE U SER ' S M ANUAL FT9Y-B1378
Communication Ports
This section describes how to connect the SmartAXIS to other devices and how to communicate with them.
The SmartAXIS is equipped with a USB port, expansion communication ports (RS232C and RS485), and an Ethernet port. The
SmartAXIS can communicate with connected devices via maintenance communication, user communication, Modbus
communication, and remote I/O by configuring the port and communication method for connected devices.
• Communication ports
All models are equipped with a USB port. The 24-, 40-, and 48-I/O types are equipped with optional RS232C or RS485 expansion
communication ports. The 24-, 40-, and 48-I/O types are equipped with an Ethernet port.
• Communication functions
For details on the communications functions, see the chapter for each function.
Communication Ports and Communication Methods
The communication methods supported by each communication port are as follows.
USB port
Maintenance communication can be performed by connecting the SmartAXIS and a computer with a
USB cable.
Ethernet port
The SmartAXIS can communicate with Ethernet-compatible devices such as computers and operator
interfaces. Maintenance communication, user communication, Modbus communication, and remote I/O
are all possible.
Expansion communication ports Maintenance communication, user communication, and Modbus RTU communication are all possible.
Maintenance communication
(Chapter 9)
Maintenance communication enables you to check the operating status and I/O status of the
SmartAXIS, monitor and change device values, and download and upload user programs using a
computer or operator interface.
User communication
(Chapter 10)
The SmartAXIS can communicate with external devices equipped with RS232C, RS485, or Ethernet
ports using user communication.
Modbus communication
(Chapter 11)
The SmartAXIS can send and receive data with Modbus compliant devices on RS232C, RS485, or
Ethernet port.
Communication Methods USB Port
Expansion Communication Port
(port 2, 3)
Ethernet Port
RS232C RS485
Maintenance
communication
System firmware
downloads
Yes
No No No
User program
downloads/uploads
No No Yes
Monitoring/changing
devices
Yes Yes Yes
User communication No Yes Yes Yes
Modbus RTU
Master
No Yes Yes No
Slave
Modbus TCP
Client
No No No Yes
Server
Remote I/O
Master
No No No Yes
Slave

IDEC FT1A Series Specifications

General

Brand	IDEC
Model	FT1A Series
Category	Controller
Language	English