LAUER LCA 245 Text Display SU 245.100.1

Product Introduction

The LAUER LCA 245 (model SU 245.100.1, reference 300688) is a robust alphanumeric operator terminal designed for simple yet effective man‑machine dialogue in industrial environments. It features a large, easy‑to‑read LCD screen, a comprehensive keypad, and flexible communication options, making it suitable for parameter entry, machine status display, and alarm notification on production lines and packaging machinery.

Display and User Interface

The terminal is equipped with a 4‑line by 20‑character backlit LCD with adjustable contrast via a front knob. The display supports both standard ASCII and extended character sets (e.g., Cyrillic, Greek) via downloadable font tables. The backlight (LED) has a lifetime of 50,000 hours and is dimmable via software. The keypad consists of 24 tactile membrane keys, including a full numeric pad (0‑9), decimal point, and minus sign, plus eight function keys (F1‑F8) that can be programmed to execute specific actions or screen jumps.

Communication Capabilities

The LCA 245 provides two independent serial ports: Port 1 (RS‑232, 9‑pin D‑sub) and Port 2 (RS‑485, 5‑pin screw terminal). The ports are configurable for baud rates from 1200 to 38400 bps, with parity (none/even/odd), and data format (7/8 bits). The unit supports the LAUER LCA protocol, Modbus RTU (master or slave), and a transparent ASCII mode for connection to barcode readers or printers. The RS‑485 port supports multi‑drop networks with up to 32 devices.

Memory and Application Features

• Screen Capacity: 256 screens (flash memory), each up to 4 lines x 20 characters plus dynamic fields

• Variables: 500 internal registers (bit, byte, word, double word, float)

• Alarms: 100 alarm messages with programmable priority and acknowledgment

• Recipes: 20 recipe sets, each with up to 50 parameters (stored in EEPROM)

• Data Logging: 8 trend channels (circular buffer, 1000 samples each)

• Real‑time Clock: Battery‑backed (CR2032) with automatic daylight saving adjustment

Electrical and Mechanical Specifications

• Power Supply: 24 V DC ±20 %, 250 mA max

• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C

• Storage Temperature: –20 °C to 70 °C

• Protection: Front IP65, rear IP20

• Housing: ABS plastic, impact‑resistant

• Mounting: Panel‑mount with clamping brackets (cut‑out 185 mm x 86 mm)

• Dimensions: 210 mm x 110 mm x 45 mm (W x H x D)

• Weight: 0.6 kg

Configuration and Programming

The LCA 245 is programmed using the LAUER LCA‑Config software (Windows 7/10 compatible). The software offers a graphical screen editor with a library of pre‑defined objects (text fields, numeric input, selection lists, bar graphs). It also includes an alarm editor, a recipe manager, and a communication wizard that simplifies the connection to various PLC brands. The project is downloaded via the RS‑232 port using a standard null‑modem cable. The software includes a monitor mode that allows online viewing and modification of variables without stopping the target application.

Installation and Wiring

Cut the panel opening, insert the terminal, and secure it with the four clamping brackets – tighten evenly to achieve a uniform seal. Connect the power supply (2‑pin terminal block) with 0.75‑1.0 mm² wires. For RS‑232, connect a shielded cable to the 9‑pin D‑sub (pin 2: TX, pin 3: RX, pin 5: GND). For RS‑485, use a twisted‑pair cable (A to A, B to B) and connect the common ground. If the unit is the last device on the bus, enable the internal termination resistor (switch on the rear). After wiring, apply power – the terminal will display the startup screen and then switch to the application’s default screen.

Diagnostics and Maintenance

The terminal performs a power‑on self‑test (POST) that checks the display, keypad, and memory. Errors are shown as numeric codes on the screen. The unit stores a diagnostic log in non‑volatile memory, retrievable via the configuration software. Regular cleaning of the front overlay is recommended. The battery (CR2032) should be replaced every 5 years; it is accessible through the rear cover – only qualified personnel should open the unit. If the terminal becomes unresponsive, perform a reset by pressing the reset button (recessed) on the rear panel.

Compatibility and Ordering

The LCA 245 is compatible with all LAUER LCA and PCS controllers, as well as with third‑party PLCs via Modbus. The standard model SU 245.100.1 has a green backlight and RS‑232/RS‑485. Optional versions include a red backlight (for alarm‑critical applications) and extended temperature range (‑10 °C to 60 °C). When ordering, reference the full part number 300688 to ensure correct connectivity and firmware version.