Schneider TM221CE24R M221 PLC 24 I/O Relay

TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic Controller

Product Introduction

The TM221CE24R expands the Modicon M221 family with a higher I/O count and robust relay output stage. This controller provides 24 discrete I/O points, comprising 14 inputs and 10 relay outputs, alongside 2 analog inputs for monitoring analog signals. Its 100–240 V AC power supply makes it compatible with standard industrial mains. With support for up to 7 expansion modules, the TM221CE24R scales easily to meet growing application demands. Built-in Ethernet, USB, and serial communication ports ensure flexible connectivity, while the real-time clock and PID regulation enhance its capability for time-based and process control tasks.

Technical Specifications

Power Supply and Electrical Ratings

The TM221CE24R operates on a rated supply voltage of 100 to 240 V AC, with limits from 85 to 264 V AC. It supports network frequencies of 50 or 60 Hz. The inrush current peaks at 40 A, while power consumption reaches 58 VA with a full set of expansion modules and drops to 35 VA without them. For expansion modules, the controller provides a 5 V output at 0.52 A and a 24 V output at 0.16 A. Additionally, a dedicated 24 V DC sensor power supply delivers 250 mA, directly powering connected sensors and simplifying wiring schemes.

Input Configuration

This logic controller includes 14 discrete inputs that comply with IEC 61131-2 Type 1 standards. Among these, four terminals (I0, I1, I6, I7) serve as fast inputs with response times as low as 5 µs. The inputs operate at 24 V DC and support both sink and source logic configurations. State 1 is guaranteed at ≥15 V with currents of ≥4.2 mA for discrete inputs and ≥2.6 mA for fast inputs. State 0 is guaranteed at ≤5 V with currents ≤1.3 mA for discrete inputs and ≤0.6 mA for fast inputs. These thresholds ensure reliable signal detection even in electrically noisy environments.

Analog Input Details

The TM221CE24R features 2 analog inputs with a 0–10 V range and 10-bit resolution. Each input offers an LSB value of 10 mV and a conversion time of 1 ms per channel plus one controller cycle. The absolute accuracy error stays within ±1% of full scale. Permanent overload protection allows ±13 V DC, while temporary overloads up to ±30 V DC are acceptable for 5 minutes. The input impedance of 100 kOhm minimizes signal loading, preserving measurement accuracy for sensors and transmitters.

Relay Output Stage

The controller provides 10 normally open relay outputs, each rated for 2 A at voltages from 5 to 125 V DC and 5 to 250 V AC. Output voltage limits extend to 125 V DC and 277 V AC. The current per common terminal is 7 A for COM 0 and COM 1, and 4 A for COM 2. These relays demonstrate excellent electrical durability across various load types, including 100,000 cycles at 240 V AC / 120 VA (inductive AC-15) and 300,000 cycles at 240 V AC / 160 VA (resistive AC-12). The mechanical durability exceeds 20 million cycles, with a minimum load of 1 mA at 5 V DC. Protection against short circuits is not internal, so external fusing is recommended for high-current circuits.

Switching Performance

The relay outputs on the TM221CE24R achieve a switching frequency of 20 operations per minute at maximum load. Turn-on and turn-off response times are both 10 ms. For the fast inputs, turn-on time is 5 µs and turn-off time ranges from 5 µs to 35 µs depending on the terminal. The configurable filtering time for inputs can be set to 0 ms, 3 ms, or 12 ms, allowing you to balance noise immunity against response speed according to your application requirements.

Communication and Connectivity

Built-in Ethernet connectivity is a core feature of the TM221CE24R. The RJ45 port supports 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX and provides Modbus TCP client/server, Modbus TCP slave, and Ethernet/IP adapter capabilities. For programming and diagnostics, a mini B USB 2.0 port offers a direct connection to SoMachine Basic software. Additionally, a non-isolated serial link with RJ45 connector supports RS232/RS485 interfaces and Modbus RTU/ASCII protocols. This combination of communication options enables the Modicon M221 controller to integrate seamlessly with HMIs, drives, sensors, and supervisory systems.

Memory and Processing Power

The TM221CE24R houses 256 kB of RAM for user applications and data, plus another 256 kB for internal variables. A further 256 kB of built-in flash memory backs up your application and critical data. The controller executes 1,000 instructions in 0.3 ms, with Boolean instructions taking just 0.2 µs. The event task response time is 60 µs. Object areas support up to 512 memory bits, 8,000 memory words, 512 constant words, 255 timers, and 255 counters, providing ample resources for medium-scale automation projects.

Real-Time and Regulation Functions

A real-time clock maintains accurate time with a monthly drift of ≤30 seconds at 25 °C. The BR2032 lithium battery preserves clock and data settings during power interruptions for up to one year. The TM221CE24R also includes an adjustable PID regulator capable of handling up to 14 simultaneous loops. This built-in regulation function is ideal for temperature, pressure, flow, and level control applications, eliminating the need for external PID controllers in many cases.

High-Speed Counting

Four fast inputs operate in high-speed counter (HSC) mode at frequencies up to 100 kHz. They support single-phase, A/B, and pulse/direction control signal types, with a counting capacity of 32 bits. These counters are well-suited for encoder feedback, product counting, and speed measurement tasks. The rapid response of these inputs ensures accurate data capture even at high production speeds.

Expansion and Scalability

A significant advantage of the TM221CE24R is its expandability. It supports up to 7 I/O expansion modules, whether transistor or relay output types. This scalability allows you to tailor the system precisely to your application needs, whether you require additional digital inputs, more relay outputs, or specialized analog modules. The expansion bus draws power directly from the controller, simplifying installation and reducing external power supply requirements. With this flexibility, the Modicon M221 controller grows alongside your automation requirements.

Mechanical and Environmental Specifications

Mounting and Dimensions

The TM221CE24R measures 110 mm in width, 70 mm in height, and 70 mm in depth. It mounts on a top hat TH35-7.5/15 rail per IEC 60715, or on a panel using the optional fixing kit. The product weight is 0.395 kg, and with packaging it adds minimal weight to your shipment. The removable screw terminal blocks for both inputs and outputs simplify wiring, maintenance, and future reconfiguration. The compact width allows efficient use of cabinet space, even when multiple expansion modules are installed.

Operating Conditions

For horizontal installation, the ambient temperature range spans -10 to 55 °C, while vertical mounting supports -10 to 35 °C. Storage temperatures range from -25 to 70 °C. Relative humidity between 10 and 95% (non-condensing) is acceptable in both operation and storage. With the protective cover fitted, the TM221CE24R achieves an IP20 protection rating. The pollution degree is rated ≤2, making it suitable for most industrial environments with controlled levels of non-conductive contamination.

Mechanical Robustness

Vibration resistance is rated at 3.5 mm from 5 to 8.4 Hz and 1 gn from 8.4 to 150 Hz on both rail and panel mounting. Shock resistance reaches 98 m/s² with an 11 ms test wave duration. These robust mechanical properties ensure reliable operation in applications subject to continuous machinery vibration or occasional impacts, such as those found in manufacturing, material handling, and packaging lines.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

The TM221CE24R exhibits strong immunity to electromagnetic disturbances. It withstands electrostatic discharge of 4 kV contact and 8 kV air, radiated fields up to 10 V/m, and fast transients of 2 kV on power lines and relay outputs. Surge immunity includes 2 kV common mode on AC power lines and 1 kV common mode on relay outputs and I/O lines. Conducted and radiated emissions meet EN/IEC 55011 Class A limits. Marine certifications from LR, ABS, DNV, and GL further confirm its suitability for shipboard and offshore applications.

Insulation and Safety

Insulation ratings include 2300 V AC between output and internal logic, 2300 V AC between supply and internal logic, 1500 V AC between supply and ground, and 500 V AC between input and internal logic. Analogue inputs are non-insulated from each other and from internal logic. The controller complies with EN/IEC 61010-2-201, EN/IEC 60664-1, and EN/IEC 61131-2 standards. Certifications include CSA, cULus, RCM, EAC, DNV-GL, LR, and IACS E10, streamlining global deployment and regulatory acceptance.

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation of the TM221CE24R ensures optimal performance and longevity. Begin by mounting the controller securely on a DIN rail or panel, ensuring adequate clearance for ventilation and cable access. Connect the AC power supply to the 3-terminal block, observing correct wiring and voltage limits. The removable terminal blocks for I/O simplify wiring: use shielded cables for fast inputs up to 10 meters to minimize electrical noise. Unshielded cables work well for standard digital inputs and outputs up to 30 meters. For analog inputs, keep unshielded cable length to 1 meter or use shielded cable for longer runs. Connect the Ethernet cable to the RJ45 port and, if needed, the USB cable for programming. Always terminate unused wires properly and secure all connections to avoid intermittent faults. For relay outputs, consider external fusing or circuit breakers to protect against overload conditions, as the controller does not include built-in protection.

Packaging List

• 1 x TM221CE24R Modicon M221 logic controller

• 1 x Removable screw terminal block for inputs

• 1 x Removable screw terminal block for outputs

• 1 x Mini B USB 2.0 programming cable (length varies)

• 1 x Mounting clip for DIN rail

• 1 x Quick start guide (multi-language)

• 1 x Product label with serial number

Shipping: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What software is required to program the TM221CE24R?
The TM221CE24R is programmed using Schneider Electric's SoMachine Basic software. This intuitive tool supports ladder logic, instruction list, and structured text, making it suitable for programmers of all skill levels.

2. How many expansion modules can I connect to the TM221CE24R?
The TM221CE24R supports up to 7 I/O expansion modules, which can be either transistor or relay output types. This allows you to significantly expand the I/O capacity of your system.

3. Does the TM221CE24R support Ethernet/IP communication?
Yes. The built-in Ethernet port supports Ethernet/IP adapter functionality, enabling the Modicon M221 to communicate with Rockwell Automation and other Ethernet/IP-compatible devices seamlessly.

4. What is the difference between the TM221CE24R and the TM221CE16R?
The TM221CE24R offers 24 I/O points (14 inputs, 10 relay outputs) compared to the TM221CE16R's 16 I/O points (9 inputs, 7 relay outputs). The TM221CE24R also supports up to 7 expansion modules, whereas the TM221CE16R supports only 4. Both operate on 100–240 V AC.

5. Does the TM221CE24R include protection for its relay outputs?
No, the relay outputs on the TM221CE24R do not have built-in protection. For high-current or inductive loads, we strongly recommend using external fusing, circuit breakers, or snubber circuits to protect both the controller and your connected equipment from overload or voltage spikes.