KRC4
May 14, 2026

KRC4

The KRC4 (KR C4) is KUKA’s fourth‑generation, high‑performance robot controller, featuring a multi‑core processor, Linux‑based real‑time OS, and integrated safety and PLC functionsKUKA. It runs KSS (KUKA System Software) V8.x / V9.x and controls 6‑axis robots (e.g., KR QUANTEC, KR CYBERTECH, KR IONTECK) plus up to 3 external axes. Designed for energy efficiency, compact footprint, and global compatibility, it is used in automotive, aerospace, and general industry

Description

KRC4.jpg

The KRC4 (KR C4) is KUKA’s fourth‑generation, high‑performance robot controller, featuring a multi‑core processor, Linux‑based real‑time OS, and integrated safety and PLC functionsKUKA. It runs KSS (KUKA System Software) V8.x / V9.x and controls 6‑axis robots (e.g., KR QUANTEC, KR CYBERTECH, KR IONTECK) plus up to 3 external axes. Designed for energy efficiency, compact footprint, and global compatibility, it is used in automotive, aerospace, and general industryKUKA.

2. Technical Specifications

  • Model: KRC4 (compact/smallsize‑2/standard/midsize/extended)

  • Controller Type: Multi‑core PC‑based, real‑time Linux, integrated PLC/safetyKUKA

  • Compatible Robots: KR QUANTEC, KR CYBERTECH, KR CYBERTECH‑2, KR IONTECK, KR QUANTEC nano

  • System Software: KSS V8.x / V9.x (Linux‑based)

  • Power Supply: 3×208/400/415/480/575 V AC, 49–61 Hz, 25–32 A

  • Standard Interfaces: Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps), CANopen, USB 2.0, RS‑232

  • Optional Fieldbuses: PROFINET, EtherCAT, PROFIBUS, DeviceNet

  • Drives: Integrated digital servo drives for 6 robot axes + up to 3 external axesmyKUKA

  • Teach Pendant: smartPAD (10.1” touchscreen, 6D joystick, IP65)

  • Protection Class: IP54 (cabinet), IP65 (smartPAD front)myKUKA

  • Operating Temp: +5°C to +45°CmyKUKA

  • Storage Temp: -20°C to +60°C

  • Dimensions (W×H×D):

    • Compact: ~400×500×300 mm

    • Standard: ~792×960×602 mmmyKUKA

  • Weight: 33–240 kg (varies by model)KUKA

3. Main Components & Controls

3.1 Control Cabinet

  • Main Power Switch: 3‑phase AC input ON/OFF.

  • Emergency Stop (E‑Stop): Red mushroom button; dual‑channel safety cuts servo power.

  • Reset Button: Clears faults, resets safety, restarts system.

  • Status LEDs: Power (green), Run (green blinking), Error (red), Servo Ready (yellow).

  • Control PC: Multi‑core CPU, 1 GB RAM, 16 GB flash memory.

  • Safety Controller: Integrated dual‑channel safety (EN ISO 13849‑1 Cat. 4).

  • Servo Drives: Integrated for axes 1–6 + up to 3 external axesmyKUKA.

  • I/O Module: 64 digital / 32 analog (expandable).

  • Fieldbus Slots: PROFINET, EtherCAT, PROFIBUS options.

  • USB/Ethernet: For program backup/restore, WorkVisual connection.

3.2 Teach Pendant (smartPAD)

  • 10.1” TFT Touchscreen: 1280×800 resolution, color display.

  • 6D Joystick: Cartesian (X/Y/Z/A/B/C) or axis‑specific (A1–A6) jogging.

  • 3‑Position Enabling Switch (Rear):

    • 0: Disabled (no motion)

    • 1: Enabled (manual jog; must be held)

    • 2: Disabled (no motion)

  • Mode Switch:

    • T1: Manual low speed (≤250 mm/s; teaching)

    • T2: Manual high speed (verification)

    • AUT: Automatic mode (production)

    • EXT: External PLC control

  • Alphanumeric Keypad: Program editing, data input.

  • Function/Softkeys: Menu navigation, command selection (e.g., PTP, LIN, CIRC).

  • Touchscreen: Direct menu access, program editing, diagnostics.

4. Safety Instructions

  • E‑Stop: Use only in emergencies; stops all servo motion via dual‑channel safety.

  • Enabling Switch: Must be held in Position 1 for manual jog; robot stops if released.

  • Mode Rules:

    • T1: Reduced speed; use for teaching/testing.

    • T2: High speed; ensure workspace is clear.

    • AUT: No personnel in workspace; safety doors closed.

    • EXT: External PLC control; safety interlocks required.

  • Integrated Safety: Dual‑channel safety controller monitors E‑stop, enabling switch, safety doors, and axis limits (Cat. 4, PL d).

  • No Modification: Never bypass or modify safety circuits (E‑Stop, safety controller, enabling switch).

  • Work Envelope: Stay clear of robot’s full range of motion.

5. Installation & Connection

  1. Positioning: Place cabinet on flat, level floor; allow 100 mm clearance for ventilation.

  2. Power Connection: Connect 3‑phase AC to X1; ensure correct voltage (400 V AC standard).

  3. Motor Cables: Connect axes 1–6 motors to X20; tighten connectors.

  4. smartPAD Connection: Connect smartPAD cable to KCP port; lock connector.

  5. Fieldbus Setup: Install PROFINET/EtherCAT/Ethernet cables; configure addresses.

  6. I/O Wiring: Connect 24 V DC I/O to terminal blocks; check polarity.

  7. Grounding: Earth cabinet and robot base per local codes.

  8. WorkVisual: Connect PC via Ethernet for configuration, programming, and diagnostics.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power‑Up

  1. Turn main power switch ON.

  2. System boots Linux real‑time OS and KSS V8.x/V9.x.

  3. Check LEDs: Power ON, Run blinking, Error OFF.

  4. Press Reset to clear faults and reset safety.

  5. Switch to T1 mode; hold enabling switch (Position 1).

  6. Jog robot to verify motion.

6.2 Manual Jogging (T1/T2)

  1. Mode: T1 (low speed) or T2 (high speed).

  2. Hold enabling switch in Position 1.

  3. Joystick:

    • Axis Mode: Move individual joints (A1–A6).

    • Cartesian Mode: Move TCP in X/Y/Z; rotate A/B/C.

  4. Adjust speed with HOV (Handwheel Override) keys (0–100%).

6.3 Programming (T1)

  1. T1 mode; enable switch held.

  2. Jog to desired position; press Record to store.

  3. Add commands:

    • PTP: Point‑to‑point motion

    • LIN: Linear motion

    • CIRC: Circular motion

    • WAIT: Pause

    • IF/FOR: Logic control

    • SPS: Integrated PLC commands

  4. Name program; save to flash or USB.

  5. Use WorkVisual for offline programming and simulation.

6.4 Automatic Operation (AUT)

  1. Select program from list.

  2. Mode: AUT.

  3. Clear workspace; close safety doors.

  4. Press Start on smartPAD or external panel.

  5. Press Stop to pause; E‑Stop for emergency.

6.5 External Operation (EXT)

  1. Connect external PLC via PROFINET/EtherCAT/Ethernet.

  2. Configure I/O signals for Start/Stop, Fault Reset, Program Select.

  3. Mode: EXT; ensure safety interlocks are closed.

  4. Control robot via PLC commands.

7. Maintenance

  • Daily: Check E‑Stop function; inspect cables for damage.

  • Weekly: Clean cabinet filters; verify fan operation.

  • Monthly: Check servo drive temperatures; tighten connectors.

  • Quarterly: Backup programs to USB; test restore.

  • Annual: Replace battery (CMOS/encoder); calibrate smartPAD touchscreen.

  • Environment: Keep cabinet dry; avoid dust and vibration.


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