Keyence IV4-GCU1 PROFINET EtherCAT Communication Unit

Keyence IV4-GCU1 Communication Unit

Product Introduction

The IV4-GCU1 is a communication expansion unit designed for the Keyence IV4-G120 compact amplifier. It enables the amplifier to join industrial networks such as PROFINET and EtherCAT. Additionally, it supports simple TCP/IP no-procedure communication for basic data transfer. This unit helps machine builders integrate IV4 vision inspection into PLC-controlled lines with less wiring effort.

Technical Specifications

The IV4-GCU1 supports PROFINET Conformance Class C for real-time control tasks. Furthermore, it handles EtherCAT with CoE protocol for high-speed deterministic communication. Besides, TCP/IP no-procedure communication allows straightforward command and result exchange. The unit provides one RJ45 Ethernet port. Specifically, this port operates at a stable 100 Mbps speed. No additional communication expansion is available on this model.

The module receives power directly from the connected IV4-G120 amplifier. Therefore, no separate supply wiring is required. However, power consumption figures are not published. Meanwhile, network configuration happens through the amplifier’s setup interface, which keeps commissioning simple.

Mechanical and Environmental Parameters

The IV4-GCU1 operates within a temperature range of 0 to +50°C without freezing. Moreover, relative humidity must remain at 85% RH or less with no condensation. The protection rating is not specified for this unit. Hence, installers should place it inside a control cabinet for reliable long-term use.

The main unit case uses PC material for light weight and electrical insulation. In addition, the Ethernet connector is copper alloy with gold plating, which resists corrosion. The rear DIN rail fixing tab uses POM for mechanical strength. Furthermore, the nameplate is PC. The unit weighs approximately 100 g, so it adds almost no load to the DIN rail. It is ESD safe and complies with IEC61340-5-1.

Installation Guide

First, confirm that your amplifier is an IV4-G120 model. Next, attach the IV4-GCU1 to the amplifier using its rear DIN rail fixing tab. Then, connect a standard RJ45 Ethernet cable to the unit. After that, set the network protocol through the amplifier menu. Specifically, select PROFINET CC-C or EtherCAT CoE based on your controller type.

For PROFINET, assign a device name and IP address from the master. For EtherCAT, verify the CoE settings align with your master configuration. Finally, run a short communication test before full production. Always keep the ambient temperature within 0 to +50°C. Besides, avoid condensing humidity, since the unit has no stated IP rating. Follow standard ESD precautions during handling.

Packaging List

• 1 x Keyence IV4-GCU1 Communication Unit

• 1 x DIN rail mounting tab (pre-installed)

• 1 x Quick start guide

FAQ

Q1: Which device works with the IV4-GCU1?
A: It is compatible with the Keyence IV4-G120 compact amplifier.

Q2: Does the IV4-GCU1 require a separate power supply?
A: No, it receives power directly from the connected IV4-G120 amplifier.

Q3: What network protocols does this unit support?
A: It supports PROFINET Conformance Class C, EtherCAT CoE, and TCP/IP no-procedure communication.

Q4: How many Ethernet ports does the IV4-GCU1 have?
A: The unit has one RJ45 Ethernet port running at 100 Mbps.

Q5: Is the IV4-GCU1 protected against water and dust?
A: The protection rating is not specified, so mount it inside a control cabinet.