B&R 3CP380.60-1 Compact and Robust Automation Controller for Focused Applications

Overview

In the world of industrial automation, not every application requires extensive expansion capabilities, but none can compromise on core processing power and reliability. The B&R 3CP380.60-1 Automation Controller from the proven 2005 series is engineered precisely for this purpose. It delivers the same high-performance computational heart as its larger siblings but in a more focused package, offering an ideal balance of power, stability, and cost-effectiveness for dedicated machinery and standalone systems.

This controller is built around the robust Intel Pentium III processor, running at 500 MHz. This ensures that even complex control logic, data processing tasks, and real-time operational demands are handled with speed and precision. The memory configuration is meticulously designed to support sustained performance. With 64MB of DRAM, the unit efficiently manages the operating system and application program execution. Complementing this is 512KB of SRAM, which provides a fast and secure area for retaining critical process data, safeguarding key variables and system parameters through power interruptions, thus ensuring a swift and deterministic restart.

A key feature that underscores the flexibility of the 3CP380.60-1 is its use of a removable CompactFlash card for primary application storage. This approach revolutionizes maintenance and deployment. Machine builders can pre-load and test entire application images on the card, drastically reducing on-site commissioning time. For end-users, it simplifies the process of creating full system backups, performing version upgrades, and replacing hardware, thereby minimizing machine downtime and enhancing operational efficiency.

The defining characteristic of the 3CP380.60-1, which distinguishes it from other models in the series, is its streamlined expansion capability. It is equipped with a single slot for an aPCI (attached Peripheral Component Interconnect) module. This makes it perfectly suited for applications where the core I/O requirements are well-defined and a limited number of special functions are needed. This single slot can be populated with a crucial communication interface—such as a second Ethernet port, PROFIBUS, or CANopen master—or a specialized I/O card, providing essential customization without the complexity or cost of a larger form factor.

The B&R 3CP380.60-1 is the optimal choice for a wide range of focused industrial applications. It excels in controlling standalone machines like compact pressers, conveyor systems, specialized test stands, and basic packaging units. It is also an excellent solution for acting as a dedicated sub-system controller within a larger automation network or for modernization projects where a powerful, reliable, but space-conscious PLC is required. Its robust design guarantees longevity and stable operation in harsh industrial environments.

In conclusion, the B&R 3CP380.60-1 embodies the principle of "right-sized" automation. It leverages the same powerful Pentium III architecture and versatile CompactFlash technology as the rest of the 2005 series but packages it with a singular expansion focus. This results in a highly capable, dependable, and cost-efficient automation controller that delivers exceptional value for applications where targeted performance and unwavering reliability are the primary drivers.