B&R 3CP340.60-2: Robust Foundation for Standard Automation Tasks

Overview

In industrial automation where operational reliability and cost efficiency are equally crucial, the B&R 3CP340.60-2 from the 2005 series stands out as a fundamental building block for standard control applications. This automation controller is specifically engineered to deliver unwavering performance in environments where extreme processing power is not required, but absolute reliability and functional stability are non-negotiable. It represents a perfectly balanced solution for a vast array of industrial tasks, providing the essential computational power, secure data handling, and practical flexibility that form the backbone of countless automated systems.

The core of the 3CP340.60-2 is driven by a proven Intel Pentium III processor, operating at 166 MHz. This robust and time-tested CPU is more than capable of handling a wide spectrum of standard PLC functions with high efficiency, including complex logic operations, timer and counter functions, and data processing tasks. The memory configuration is designed for dependable long-term operation. With 32MB of DRAM, the controller ensures stable performance for its operating system and user program execution. Crucially, it is equipped with 512KB of SRAM, which serves as a secure and fast buffer for critical process data. This ensures the retention of vital system parameters and operational values during power interruptions, guaranteeing a predictable and immediate restart—a key feature for maintaining continuous process integrity.

Aligning with the high standards of the series, the 3CP340.60-2 utilizes a removable CompactFlash card for its primary application storage. This feature introduces a significant layer of operational agility and serviceability. It simplifies the entire lifecycle of the machine, from initial commissioning—where a pre-loaded card can be inserted for rapid startup—to routine maintenance. Creating full system backups, performing version-controlled updates, and replacing hardware become straightforward tasks that dramatically reduce machine downtime and lower the total cost of ownership.

For system expansion and customization, the controller features a single aPCI (attached Peripheral Component Interconnect) slot. This focused approach to modularity makes the 3CP340.60-2 an ideal candidate for applications with clearly defined I/O and communication requirements. This single slot provides the necessary flexibility to integrate one critical additional interface, such as a PROFIBUS DP, CANopen, or DeviceNet module, allowing the system to be precisely tailored to its specific task without introducing unnecessary complexity or expense.

The B&R 3CP340.60-2 is perfectly suited for a broad range of fundamental industrial automation tasks. It excels in controlling standalone machines such as simple conveyor belts, palletizers, basic filling systems, and industrial pumps. It is also an excellent and reliable choice for managing environmental control systems, lighting panels, and as a dedicated sub-system controller within a larger distributed automation architecture. Its rugged design ensures consistent and dependable operation in typical industrial settings, characterized by electrical noise and variable temperatures.

In summary, the B&R 3CP340.60-2 Automation Controller embodies the principle of purpose-built engineering. It delivers the core robustness and essential features of the 2005 series in a highly optimized and accessible package. By providing a reliable Pentium III processor, secure memory management, versatile storage, and targeted expandability, it establishes itself as an outstanding value proposition for engineers seeking a dependable, efficient, and cost-effective control solution for a wide spectrum of standard industrial applications.