Yokogawa F3NC96-0N | 15-Axis Motion Control Module

Yokogawa F3NC96-0N Positioning Module with MECHATROLINK-II Interface

Product Introduction

The F3NC96-0N from Yokogawa serves as a high-speed positioning module for FA-M3 and FA-M3V programmable controllers. As a motion control unit, it acts as a MECHATROLINK-II master station that sends commands to slave devices such as servo drives. The model F3NC96-0N occupies a single I/O slot yet manages up to 15 axes, which makes it suitable for compact multi-axis machinery. Engineers deploy this module in packaging, semiconductor, and assembly equipment where precise coordinated motion is essential.

Technical Specifications

The F3NC96-0N delivers motion control through the open MECHATROLINK-II network. Specifically, it transmits at 10 Mbps with a 32-byte frame including subcommands. Users can select a 1.0 ms cycle for up to 8 axes or a 2.0 ms cycle for up to 15 axes. Additionally, the module supports linear interpolation with simultaneous start and stop across multiple axes, enabling coordinated path control.

Key Communication and Motion Parameters:

• Interface: MECHATROLINK-II compliant (C1 master station).

• Transmission Rate: 10 Mbps.

• Cycle Time: 1.0 ms (up to 8 axes) or 2.0 ms (up to 15 axes).

• Network Topology: Bus (multi-drop).

• Communication Method: Master/slave synchronous.

• Transmission Media: 2-wire shielded twisted pair cable (proprietary).

• Maximum Distance: 50 m total length.

• Minimum Station Distance: 0.5 m.

Positioning Functions:

• Position Reference Range: -2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647 (reference unit).

• Linear Interpolation: Simultaneous start and stop for multiple axes.

• Independent Axis Movement: Executed via MECHATROLINK-II commands.

• Status Reading: Target position, current position, and other external device data.

• Parameter Access: Read and write parameters of connected external equipment.

Mechanical and Environmental Parameters

The module features a compact single-slot design that conserves rack space in FA-M3 systems. Its connector-based wiring reduces installation effort and cabling cost compared with discrete pulse-output modules. The unit draws 570 mA at 5 V DC and weighs approximately 120 g.

Physical Characteristics:

• Dimensions: 28.9 mm (W) × 100 mm (H) × 83.2 mm (D), excluding protrusions.

• Weight: 120 g.

• Current Consumption: 570 mA (5 V DC).

• External Connection: One MECHATROLINK-II communication connector.

• Maximum Modules per System: 8 modules (up to 120 axes).

Installation Guide

Proper setup ensures reliable motion control and network stability. First, verify that the FA-M3 base unit has an available I/O slot and that power is off. Next, insert the F3NC96-0N firmly into the slot and secure it according to the controller manual.

Cable routing requires attention to MECHATROLINK-II specifications. Use the proprietary 2-wire shielded twisted pair cable for all network connections. Moreover, maintain at least 0.5 m between stations and keep the total bus length under 50 m. Finally, configure the cycle time in the CPU programming software to match the number of connected axes before starting operation.

Packaging List

• 1 × Yokogawa F3NC96-0N Positioning Module

• 1 × Installation Reference Guide (documentation only)

FAQ

Q1: What is the primary function of the F3NC96-0N?
A: The F3NC96-0N acts as a MECHATROLINK-II master for motion control. It sends positioning commands from the FA-M3 CPU to servo drives and other slave devices.

Q2: How many axes can this module control?
A: A single F3NC96-0N controls up to 15 axes. The cycle time determines the maximum: 1.0 ms supports 8 axes, while 2.0 ms supports 15 axes.

Q3: What cable type does the MECHATROLINK-II network require?
A: The network uses a proprietary 2-wire shielded twisted pair cable. The total bus length must not exceed 50 m, with at least 0.5 m between stations.

Q4: Does the F3NC96-0N support coordinated multi-axis motion?
A: Yes, the module performs linear interpolation with simultaneous start and stop across axes. This function enables straight-line cutting, pick-and-place, and similar coordinated moves.

Q5: Which Yokogawa controller series accepts this module?
A: The F3NC96-0N installs in FA-M3 and FA-M3V base units. It occupies one I/O slot and communicates with the CPU module through the backplane.