Automationdirect.com HX-ECOM Series - Chapter 7: Maintenance and Troubleshooting; Isolating a Communication Problem; Diagnostic Tools and Techniques; Troubleshooting Chart

Ethernet Communications Modules, 3rd Edition, Rev. D
7-2
Chapter 7: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
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Isolating a Communication Problem
If you are experiencing a problem communicating with an ECOM module, the problem can
usually be isolated to one of four components of the communication link:
• ECOM module itself (hardware or firmware)
• Communication program or the setup of the ECOM module
• Cabling and connections
• Other external influences, such as electrical noise, heavy communication
traffic on the network or exceeding the PLC power budget
You can also use your PC’s DOS “Ping” command to verify communications with a network
server. The PC’s NIC must have the TCP/IP protocol enabled and the server must have a valid
IP address. Visit www.microsoft.com for information on the “Ping” command.
Diagnostic Tools and Techniques
Several available tools and techniques can help you isolate a communication problem:
• The LEDs on the face of the module indicate the status of the
link, the module, and the network communications.
• NetEdit3 displays a list of the active modules on the network
and their protocol and configuration settings.
• Cable testing devices can pinpoint short or open circuits or diagnose
attenuation problems and other cabling problems.
Troubleshooting Chart
The following chart summarizes the different types of communication failures you could
experience. In each case the CPU PWR LED must be on, and you must be attempting to
communicate with the ECOM in question. You must be attempting to send or receive RX/WX
instructions or you must be attempting to link to the ECOM using our KEPDirect for PLCs or
other software driver.
The meaning of the diagnostic LEDs is explained beginning on page 7-4.
ECOM Module LEDs
Corrective Action
Off On FlashLegend:
Troubleshooting Chart
LINK/LINKGD
ACT
ERROR/ERR
1. Cycle power to the PLC. This will clear
the error if it was due to a transient
condition.
2. Replace ECOM module
LINK/LINKGD
ACT
ERROR/ERR
OR
ACTIVE/ACT
LINKGD/LINK
ERROR/ERR
OK / STATUS
ECOM100
OR
OK / STATUS
ECOM100
ACTIVE/ACT
LINKGD/LINK
ERROR/ERR
ECOM(--F)
ECOM(--F)