Description
The Yokogawa F3LC21-1N is a personal computer link module designed for the Yokogawa FA-M3 (Free and Multi-Abled) programmable logic controller series. This module establishes half-duplex serial communications conforming to the EIA RS-232-C standard, allowing the PLC to exchange data efficiently with supervisory computers, operator interfaces, and third-party software packages.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Manufacturer | Yokogawa Electric Corporation |
| Product Type | PC Link / Serial Communication Module |
| Model | F3LC21-1N |
| Communication Standard | EIA RS-232-C |
| Transmission Mode | Half-duplex |
| Baud Rate | Up to 38,400 bps |
| Maximum Transmission Distance | 15 meters |
| Number of Ports | 1 port (D-sub 9-pin connector) |
| Current Consumption | 100 mA (5 V DC via backplane) |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 to +55 °C |
| Enclosure Rating | IP20 |
| Weight | Approximately 110 g |
Commercial Terms & Availability
- Condition: New Original / Factory Sealed or Tested Surplus inventory options.
- Lead Time: 1 to 3 business days for standard stock items. Contact our sales desk to confirm current warehouse availability.
- Warranty: 12-month standard replacement warranty from the invoice date.
- Pricing Note: Listed price is indicative and subject to market conditions. Contact our engineering sales desk for a formal, project-specific quotation.
Engineering Context and Field Integration
When integrating the F3LC21-1N into an FA-M3 rack architecture for legacy data exchange or supervisory monitoring, field engineers should observe the following guidelines:
- Physical Cabling Limits: Because the module relies on RS-232-C physical signaling, keep cable lengths under 15 meters and utilize multi-conductor shielded cables with the shield drain wire connected to the protective earth ground at one end to prevent common-mode noise coupling.
- Protocol Handshaking: Ensure proper configuration of software parameters (baud rate, parity, stop bits, and station address) inside the engineering tool to match the communicating host computer or SCADA device.
- Slot Allocation: The module mounts directly into standard I/O slots on the FA-M3 base unit. Verify that the rack’s power supply module has adequate 5 V DC backplane current capacity available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the F3LC21-1N be used for multi-drop network configurations?
No. Because this module implements the point-to-point EIA RS-232-C standard rather than RS-422/RS-485, it is restricted to single-device connections up to 15 meters. For multi-drop network layouts, utilize dedicated multi-link or network communication cards.
How is the module configured within the FA-M3 system?
Communication parameters and link device allocations are configured via Yokogawa’s standard programming software environment and stored in the CPU or module registers upon system initialization.
What should I check if data transmission drops intermittently?
Verify that the RS-232 cable is securely fastened with locking screws, check for ground loops between the PLC panel and the host computer, and confirm that the baud rate settings match precisely on both ends of the serial link.
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