Get now the 20-COMM-E, a high-performance EtherNet/IP communication interface designed to provide seamless network connectivity for Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 7-Class drives.
What Is the 20-COMM-E?
The 20-COMM-E is a premier communication adapter that enables PowerFlex 70, 700, 700S, and 700H drives to communicate over an EtherNet/IP network. Developed by Rockwell Automation, this module utilizes the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) to provide a unified communication structure for both control data and explicit messaging. By installing the 20-COMM-E into the drive’s internal DPI (Drive Peripheral Interface) port, users can take advantage of high-speed data exchange, remote web-based diagnostics, and seamless integration with Studio 5000 Logix Designer. It is a critical component for modernizing industrial plants, allowing drives to be part of a factory-wide Ethernet infrastructure for real-time monitoring and advanced motion control strategies.
Key Technical Specifications
- Network Protocol: EtherNet/IP (10/100 Mbps)
- Interface Type: Internal DPI (Drive Peripheral Interface)
- Topology Support: Star, Linear, and Device Level Ring (DLR)
- Power Consumption: 350mA at 5V DC (provided by the drive)
- Connector: Single RJ45 modular jack
- Web Server: Integrated for remote configuration and diagnostics
Industrial Integration and DLR Support
The 20-COMM-E architecture is designed for maximum reliability in high-speed automation environments. It supports Device Level Ring (DLR) topology, which provides hardware-level network resiliency. In a DLR configuration, the network can withstand a single point of failure without losing communication with the drive, which is vital for continuous process industries. Furthermore, the 20-COMM-E supports «Premier Integration,» allowing users to configure all drive parameters directly through the Logix controller’s I/O tree, reducing commissioning time and simplifying spare parts management through Automatic Device Configuration (ADC).
Installation Advice
Before installing the 20-COMM-E, ensure the drive is completely powered down. When connecting the Ethernet cable, use shielded Cat5e or Cat6 cables with industrial-grade RJ45 connectors to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) from the drive’s power stages. Ensure the module is firmly seated in the DPI port and the internal ribbon cable is not pinched. For optimal security, remember to change the default password of the integrated web server and disable unused protocols like SNMP or HTTP if they are not required for your specific network architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the 20-COMM-E be used with PowerFlex 40 drives?
A: No, the 20-COMM-E is designed for DPI-based drives (7-Class). PowerFlex 40 drives require the 22-COMM-E adapter which uses a different DSI interface.
Q: Does it support e-mail notifications?
A: Yes, the 20-COMM-E can be configured to send e-mail alerts for specific drive faults or warnings via its internal web server settings.
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