B&R 3IF681.86 Interface Module Detailed Product Description Product Overview

The B&R 3IF681.86 is a compact dual-interface communication module designed specifically for the B&R SYSTEM 2005 platform series, featuring integrated RS232 and Ethernet connectivity. With a standard slot-in design, it can be directly installed into the CPU or IF expansion slots of the 2005 series. The module integrates one RS232 serial interface and one 10BASE-T Ethernet interface, engineered for multi-protocol, multi-link data exchange in industrial automation environments. It offers high reliability, strong anti-interference capability, and hot-swappable functionality, enabling stable long-term operation even under harsh industrial conditions. It serves as a core expansion unit for connecting serial devices to networks and enabling remote controller communication in medium- and small-scale automation systems.

Basic Information  

Product Model: 3IF681.86  

Brand: B&R (Bernecker+Rainer)  

Series: SYSTEM 2005 Interface Module Series  

Product Type: Multi-Protocol Communication Interface Module  

Installation Method: Fits 2005 series CPU/IF slots (e.g., CP260, IF260, IF060), plug-in installation  

Dimensions: Approx. 140 mm × 18 mm × 86 mm (L × W × H)  

Weight: Approx. 0.1 kg  

Protection Rating: IP20 (suitable for cabinet mounting)  

Operating Voltage: 5 VDC (supplied via backplane)  

Certifications: CE, UL, CSA industrial compliance certifications  

Origin: Austria  

Function and Positioning  

This module is a core communication expansion unit for the 2005 series PLC system, serving as a central hub for bridging serial and Ethernet communications in industrial settings. It combines traditional serial communication with modern Ethernet networking capabilities. The RS232 interface uses a 9-pin D-Sub connector, ideal for point-to-point connections with human-machine interfaces (HMIs), barcode scanners, serial printers, and legacy serial devices—optimized for short-range, high-reliability serial data transmission. The 10BASE-T Ethernet interface features an RJ45 female socket, enabling industrial Ethernet communication and seamless integration with host computers, SCADA systems, other PLCs, and Ethernet field devices, supporting remote monitoring, program downloading, and data sharing. Supporting hot-swap functionality, the module allows installation, replacement, and maintenance without system downtime, significantly reducing operational and maintenance costs. It meets the communication expansion and upgrade needs of medium- and small-scale automation systems.

Key Performance Specifications  

Communication Interfaces: 1×RS232 (9-pin D-Sub), 1×10BASE-T Ethernet (RJ45 female)  

Supported Protocols: RS232 (ASCII, binary protocols); Ethernet (TCP/IP, UDP)  

Data Transfer Rates: RS232 up to 19.2 kbps; Ethernet 10 Mbps (auto-adaptive half-duplex/full-duplex)  

Electrical Isolation: Electrical isolation between RS232 and Ethernet interfaces, providing excellent noise immunity  

Power Consumption: ≤2.5 W  

Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C  

Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C  

Relative Humidity: 5%–95% (non-condensing)  

Status Indicators: TX/RX LEDs for RS232, link/activity LEDs for Ethernet  

Network Features: Supports static IP address configuration, compatible with 2005 series PLC network topologies, enables node number-to-IP address association  

Commonly Used Accessories  

Communication Cables: Shielded straight-through RS232 cable, shielded industrial Ethernet twisted pair cable (compatible with 10BASE-T) Connection Accessories: 9-pin D-Sub connector (RS232), RJ45 industrial waterproof connector (Ethernet)  

Installation Accessories: 2005 series standard backplane (6/9/12/15 slots), DIN rail mounting kit (compatible with host station)  

Software Tools: B&R Automation Studio (configuration / programming), Ethernet communication configuration library, RS232 driver, network debugging and diagnostic tools  

Applicable Equipment Areas  

Industrial Automation: 2005 series PLC control systems, automated assembly lines, process control stations, discrete manufacturing production lines  

Factory Communication Networks: Industrial Ethernet networking, data exchange between PLCs and HMIs/supervisory computers, remote monitoring and maintenance systems  

Machinery & Equipment: Packaging machinery, textile machinery, plastic injection molding equipment, woodworking machines, 3C processing equipment  

Intelligent Buildings: HVAC systems, building automation equipment, energy monitoring and management systems  

Process Industries: Water treatment equipment, food and beverage production lines, pharmaceutical equipment, small-to-medium chemical control systems  

Other Applications: Equipment retrofitting and upgrading (serial to Ethernet conversion), multi-device networking in industrial environments, communication expansion for embedded control units