Parker EVM32-II Modular Expansion Base Plate

EVM32 Series I/O Expansion Board: Building a Flexible and Reliable Industrial I/O System for 6K Controllers

Product positioning and system composition

In modern motion control and automation systems, the number of I/O points on the controller itself often cannot meet the requirements of complex devices. To this end, Parker Hannifin has launched the EVM32 series I/O expansion board, specifically designed to work with 6K series motion controllers to achieve large-scale expansion of digital and analog input and output. The EVM32 substrate itself does not contain specific I/O circuits, but rather serves as a modular platform where users can insert different types of SIM boards (sub boards) according to their actual needs, allowing for flexible configuration of input and output types and quantities.

The standard supply scope for each EVM32 order includes the following components: an EVM32 substrate, a detachable ventilation cover, adhesive labels for identifying SIM configurations, and a 2-foot (0.61-meter) connecting cable. This cable can be used to directly connect the EVM32 substrate to the 6K controller, as well as for cascading expansion between multiple EVM32 units to achieve a decentralized I/O layout. The substrate adopts a metal shell and is equipped with a ventilation cover plate, which meets the needs of heat dissipation and protection.

Optional SIM card types and functions

The core of the EVM32 system lies in its modular SIM board design. Users can choose from the following SIM boards based on the on-site signal type and load requirements, with each SIM board providing 8 channels. All installation and replacement of SIM boards must be carried out with the substrate powered off to prevent electrical damage and ensure safe operation.

2.1 Digital input SIM board: SIM8-IN-EVM32

This board provides 8 digital input channels for receiving switch signals from external devices such as sensors, buttons, limit switches, encoder interfaces, etc. The input circuit is usually compatible with 24V DC logic level and has high anti-interference ability. It can be directly connected to industrial field proximity switches, photoelectric switches, etc. Each input status can be read in real-time through the internal registers of the 6K controller, suitable for applications such as status monitoring, position confirmation, start/stop instructions, etc.

2.2 Digital output SIM board: Four models meet different load requirements

The EVM32 system provides up to four digital output SIM boards to adapt to different load types and electrical environments:

SIM8-OUT-NPN (leakage type output): The 8-way output of this board adopts NPN transistor structure, with the common terminal connected to the positive power supply, and the output terminal pulled down to 0V (i.e. "low side switch") when conducting. Suitable for connecting DC relays, small solenoid valves or indicator lights, and the other end of the load needs to be connected to the positive pole. This output form is very common in Japanese PLCs and many industrial equipment.

SIM8-OUT-PNP (Source Output): Unlike NPN, PNP output boards adopt a source structure, and when conducting, the output terminal outputs a positive voltage (high side switch), with a common terminal connected to 0V. It is suitable for occasions that require high-level driving signals, such as certain safety relays or specific brand actuators. Users should choose NPN or PNP versions according to the wiring specifications of downstream devices to avoid signal mismatch.

SIM8-OUT-SSR (Solid State Relay Output): This board isolates 8 outputs through solid-state relays and can switch between AC or DC loads without mechanical contacts. Therefore, it has the advantages of spark free, long life, and high switching frequency. SSR output is particularly suitable for situations that require frequent on-off, such as pulse control, heater regulation, or high-speed counting output. Note: This board requires a 6K controller operating system version of 5.1 or higher to support.

SIM8-OUT-HCR (High Current Relay Output): This board uses high-capacity electromagnetic relays as output devices, and each contact can withstand greater current and surge capacity than SSR, making it suitable for directly driving high-power AC contactors, motor starters, or electromagnets. Due to being a mechanical contact, its switching frequency is relatively low, but the conduction resistance is extremely small and the heat generation is low. Similarly, this board requires 6K OS rev 5.1 or higher version.

The selection of the four types of digital output boards mentioned above directly determines the types of loads that the system can drive, current capacity, and durability. Engineers need to comprehensively consider load power, switching frequency, environmental requirements, and reliability indicators when designing.

2.3 Analog Input/Output SIM Board

For situations that require continuous process control, EVM32 provides analog I/O cards:

SIM8-AN-IN (8-channel analog input): This board provides 8 analog inputs, and each channel can accept ± 10V voltage signals. After analog-to-digital conversion, the input signal is read in digital form by the 6K controller for collecting pressure, flow rate, position feedback (from potentiometers or analog sensors), etc. Its typical resolution is 12 bits or higher, which can meet the needs of most industrial controls.