4351A Triconex TCM Communication Module

Triconex TCM Communication Module: Advanced Network Connectivity

The Triconex TCM Communication Module provides comprehensive network connectivity for Tricon safety systems. This advanced communication module supports multiple protocols and interfaces for seamless system integration. The Triconex TCM enables reliable communication with TriStation, Modbus devices, and external hosts through both Ethernet and serial connections.

Key Technical Specifications

• The Triconex TCM comes in four models: 4351A, 4352A, 4353, and 4354
• It provides four serial ports with RS-232/RS-485 support and DB-9 connectors
• Copper Ethernet models 4351A and 4353 feature RJ-45 connectors
• Fiber-optic models 4352A and 4354 use MTRJ connectors with 62.5/125 μm fiber
• Port isolation provides 500 VDC protection for enhanced safety
• Compatible only with Tricon v10.0 and later systems

Network and Communication Features

• Copper Ethernet ports support 10/100 Mbps speeds for flexible networking
• Fiber Ethernet ports deliver 100 Mbps performance for long-distance communication
• Serial ports handle speeds up to 115.2 Kbps per port
• Aggregate data rate reaches 460.8 kilobits per second across all serial ports
• Supports Modbus master and slave configurations on all serial ports
• Serial port #1 supports Modbus or Trimble GPS interface

Protocol Support and Compatibility

• Comprehensive protocol support includes TCP/IP, Modbus, and TriStation
• NET 1 and NET 2 support Modbus TCP/IP Slave/Master and TSAA
• Additional protocols include SNTP, ICMP, and Jet Direct for network printing
• NET 1 exclusively supports Peer-to-Peer and Time Synchronization
• Modbus functions include Read Coil Status (01), Read Holding Registers (03)
• Also supports Modify Register Content (06) and Preset Multiple Registers (16)

System Integration and Configuration

• Single Tricon system supports maximum of four TCM modules
• Supports total of 32 Modbus masters or slaves across network and serial ports
• Uses five-digit alias numbers for Modbus variable mapping
• Modules must reside in two logical slots with no model mixing
• Includes debug port for Triconex internal use only
• While no hot-spare feature, allows online replacement of faulty modules

Status Indicators and Diagnostics

• Comprehensive status indicators show PASS, FAULT, ACTIVE, and FIRM
• Network port indicators include LINK, TX (Transmit), and RX (Receive)
• Each network port has dedicated status indicators for easy monitoring
• Serial ports are uniquely addressed for flexible configuration
• Serial port #4 supports Modbus or TriStation interface
• Enables communication with other Tricon or Trident controllers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What are the different TCM models available?
  The Triconex TCM offers models 4351A and 4353 with copper Ethernet, and 4352A and 4354 with fiber-optic Ethernet ports
• How many serial ports does the TCM provide?
  The Triconex TCM includes four serial ports that support both RS-232 and RS-485 communication standards
• Can I mix different TCM models in one system?
  No, different TCM models cannot be mixed in one logical slot within the Tricon system configuration