Product Overview

The 45C997 is a modular I/O (Input/Output) card designed to expand the capabilities of a Reliance Electric Shark XL or XL II PLC system. Specifically, it is a 4-channel, 0-10 VDC Analog Output Module.

In industrial automation, analog output modules are used to control devices that require a variable voltage signal. For example, they can control the speed of a variable frequency drive (VFD), adjust the position of a control valve, or set a reference point for a servo system. The “0-10 VDC” indicates the range of the output voltage, and “4-channel” means it can provide four independent analog output signals.

Reliance Electric’s Shark XL and XL II PLCs were designed as cost-effective and flexible programmable controllers, suitable for replacing relay control systems and handling more sophisticated control operations with analog and arithmetic capabilities.

Key Technical Specifications

Based on the available information from datasheets:

• Part Number: 45C997
• Manufacturer: Reliance Electric (now part of ABB/Baldor-Reliance)
• Product Type: Analog Output Module
• Series: Shark XL / Shark XL II Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
• Number of Channels: 4 Channels
• Output Signal Range: 0-10 VDC (Volts DC)
• Resolution: Typically 8-bit resolution (as mentioned by some vendors, meaning the 0-10V range is divided into 256 steps).
• Module Type: Plugs into an I/O rack/rail of the Shark XL/XL II system.
• Environmental Conditions (typical for Shark XL series):
  • Operating Temperature: 0 to 55°C (32 to 131°F)
  • Humidity Range: 20% – 90% Non-Condensing

Main Features and Advantages

• Analog Control: Provides precise variable voltage output for controlling various industrial devices.
• Modular Design: Allows for flexible expansion of the Shark XL/XL II PLC system, enabling users to add analog output capabilities as needed.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with the Shark XL/XL II processor and other I/O modules within the same rack.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Part of a series designed to offer economical control solutions for machinery and systems.
• Four Independent Channels: Allows for control of four separate devices with 0-10V inputs from a single module.

Application Field

The Reliance Electric 45C997 analog output module is primarily used in industrial automation and control systems that utilize the Reliance Electric Shark XL or Shark XL II PLCs.

Common applications include:

• Process Control: Regulating variables like flow rates, pressure, temperature, or motor speeds in manufacturing processes.
• Machine Control: Providing variable setpoints for machine axes, controlling the speed of conveyors, or adjusting heating elements.
• HVAC Systems: Controlling fan speeds, damper positions, or valve openings in industrial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
• Packaging Machinery: Precision control of various machine operations.
• Material Handling: Controlling the speed of pumps, fans, or other devices in material transport systems.

It’s suitable for applications where analog signals (0-10V) are required to drive or modulate field devices.

 

Related Products

The 45C997 module functions as part of a larger PLC system. Related products include:

• Reliance Electric Shark XL or XL II Processors: These are the central processing units (CPUs) that the 45C997 module connects to (e.g., 45C900 XL Processor, 45C901 XL II Processor).
• I/O Racks/Rails: The chassis or backplane into which the 45C997 and other I/O modules are plugged (e.g., 45C1 I/O Rail).
• Memory Modules: Required for the processor (e.g., 45C975, 45C977).
• Other Shark XL I/O Modules: Other input and output modules from the same series, such as:
  • Digital Input/Output Modules
  • Analog Input Modules (e.g., 45C990, 45C992 for 4-20mA or 0-10V inputs)
  • Other Analog Output Modules (e.g., 45C993, 45C995 for 4-20mA outputs)
  • Network Modules (e.g., 45C987, 45C988, 45C989 for Remote I/O or network capability)
• Programming Tools: Standard or Universal Programmers, or PC-based software for configuring the PLC and modules.
• Field Devices: The actual industrial components that the 45C997 controls, such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), proportional control valves, actuators, or chart recorders.
• Power Supplies: Power supply units for the PLC system.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation and maintenance of the Reliance Electric 45C997 should be performed by qualified personnel familiar with industrial control systems and electrical safety. Always refer to the official Reliance Electric (now ABB/Baldor-Reliance) instruction manuals for the Shark XL/XL II series.

Installation (General Guidelines):

1. Safety First: Ensure all power to the PLC system and controlled equipment is disconnected and locked out before installation.
2. Mounting: The 45C997 is a modular card that slides into an available slot on the Shark XL/XL II I/O rack. Ensure it is seated firmly.
3. Wiring: Connect the 0-10VDC analog output signals from the module to the appropriate input terminals of the field devices it will control. Pay close attention to polarity and grounding.
4. Configuration: After physical installation, the module must be configured within the PLC program using the appropriate programming software. This involves assigning addresses to its channels and defining the scaling and behavior of the analog outputs.
5. Functional Test: Power up the system and perform thorough functional tests to verify that the analog outputs provide the correct voltage signals and that the controlled devices respond as expected.

Maintenance (General Guidelines):

• Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the module and its connections for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, loose wiring, or overheating.
• Environmental Control: Ensure the operating environment (temperature, humidity, dust) remains within the specified limits for the PLC system to prevent component degradation.
• Firmware/Software Updates: If applicable, ensure the PLC processor’s firmware and programming software are up-to-date according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Calibration Check: While analog output modules are generally stable, for critical applications, periodic calibration verification of the output voltage may be performed using a multimeter or a calibrated test device.
• Troubleshooting: If an issue arises, use the PLC’s diagnostic tools and the module’s status indicators (if present) to pinpoint the problem.

Product Guarantee

Reliance Electric products (now part of ABB/Baldor-Reliance) would typically have come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty when purchased new. For industrial control components:

• New Purchase: If purchased new from an authorized distributor of ABB/Baldor-Reliance, it would usually carry their standard warranty (e.g., 12 to 24 months from installation or manufacture date).
• Discontinued Status: The Shark XL series, and thus the 45C997, is likely discontinued by the manufacturer. This means that if you are acquiring this part now, it will likely be from surplus stock or a third-party reseller.
• Aftermarket/Surplus/Refurbished: When purchased from industrial surplus dealers or third-party resellers, the warranty will depend entirely on the seller. Many reputable industrial parts suppliers offer their own limited warranty (e.g., 30-day, 1-year, or 2-year) for “new” or “refurbished” items.