Schneider TSXMRPC007M PCMCIA Memory Card for Modicon PLC

The Schneider TSXMRPC007M is a PCMCIA Type I memory card designed for use with Modicon Premium (TSX P57) and Modicon Micro (TSX 37) programmable logic controllers. This card provides 2MB of non-volatile storage (SRAM with battery backup or flash, depending on variant) for storing PLC application programs, symbol tables, parameter files, and data logging archives. It enables easy program transfer between controllers, recipe management, and firmware updates without a computer connection.

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: PCMCIA ATA flash / SRAM memory card

• Order Code: TSXMRPC007M

• Memory Capacity: 2 MB (user area)

• Card Type: Type I (3.3 mm thickness), 68-pin

• Power Supply: 3.3V / 5V auto-sensing via PCMCIA slot

• Data Retention: 10 years minimum (flash) / battery-backed SRAM (RTC battery in CPU)

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C

• Storage Temperature: -25°C to 85°C

• Compatible PLCs: Modicon Premium (TSX P57 2xx/4xx/5xx), Modicon Micro (TSX 37-05/08/10/12/21/22), and certain ATV drives with PCMCIA slot

Functional Capabilities

The TSXMRPC007M can perform multiple functions depending on the PLC firmware and configuration. It can store the complete user program (including configuration and symbols), allowing a controller to boot directly from the card in the absence of an internal memory. It supports online data logging: the PLC can write data to the card during operation to create production logs, fault records, or trend archives. Recipe management is also possible, where the PLC reads parameter sets from the card to change machine settings without reprogramming. The card can also hold firmware update files for upgrading the PLC operating system.

File System and Compatibility

The card uses a FAT16 file system format, readable by any standard PCMCIA adapter connected to a PC. However, files written by the PLC are in a proprietary format (usually with extensions .STX, .DEF, .CHR). The card can be formatted using Unity Pro (or PL7 Pro) software via the PCMCIA slot of the CPU. It supports long file names up to 32 characters. The card is also compatible with programming terminals and certain Schneider Electric HMIs equipped with a PCMCIA slot.

Installation and Usage

To install, insert the card into the PCMCIA slot of the Modicon Premium CPU (located on the front panel) until it clicks. The CPU automatically detects the card upon power-up or after a hot insertion (if supported by the firmware). The PLC status register can be read to verify card presence and health. LED indicators on the CPU show card access activity. When used for program backup, the user must perform a transfer command via the programming software to copy the internal RAM to the card.

Data Integrity and Reliability

The TSXMRPC007M includes error correction code (ECC) to detect and correct single-bit errors. It also features write protection via a mechanical switch on the card body to prevent accidental overwriting. The SRAM version relies on the CPU’s lithium backup battery; if the battery discharges, data on the card may be lost (flash version retains data without battery). The card withstands at least 100,000 write/erase cycles per sector. Mean time between failures (MTBF) is specified at 1,000,000 hours.

Applications

Typical uses include machine program backup for changeover, recipe storage for multi-product lines, data logging for quality assurance, and firmware distribution across multiple identical PLCs. In the food and beverage industry, the card holds cleaning cycle parameters. In automotive assembly, it stores part-specific torque and angle values for electric nutrunners controlled by the PLC.

Environmental and Compliance

The card is RoHS compliant, CE marked, and meets UL 60950-1 for information technology equipment. It is resistant to 15 kV ESD (air discharge) per IEC 61000-4-2. Humidity tolerance: 5% to 95% non-condensing.

Conclusion

The Schneider TSXMRPC007M PCMCIA memory card offers a simple, rugged, and standardized method to expand the non-volatile storage of Modicon PLCs, facilitating program management and data recording in industrial environments.