Product Overview

The Schneider Electric HMIGXU5512 is a 10.1-inch advanced touchscreen panel in the Harmony Easy GXU series. It belongs to the Universal configuration of the GXU range and combines a widescreen operator display with Ethernet, two serial communication ports, and USB connectivity.

Unlike the basic HMIGXU5500, the HMIGXU5512 supports a broader range of communication arrangements. Its COM1 port supports RS-232C, while COM2 supports RS-422/RS-485. An integrated 10/100BASE-TX Ethernet interface provides another communication option for PLC-based automation systems. This combination is useful in machines where the HMI needs to exchange data with a main controller while maintaining a separate serial connection for compatible equipment.

The 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen uses an 800 × 480-pixel WVGA resolution and displays 65,536 colors. The widescreen layout gives application developers more room to organize machine diagrams, operating parameters, alarm information, and frequently used controls. Operators can monitor several related process conditions without switching constantly between individual screens.

The HMIGXU5512 contains 48 MB of application memory, 128 MB of internal DDR memory, and 128 KB of backup memory. An integrated real-time clock supports applications involving timestamps and time-related operating information.

Vijeo Designer Basic is used to develop the HMI application. Engineers can configure graphical objects, communication drivers, alarm displays, and operator functions according to the connected controller and machine requirements.

In a typical installation, the HMIGXU5512 is mounted on a machine enclosure and connected to a PLC through Ethernet or a compatible serial interface. The PLC remains responsible for executing control logic and processing field signals, while the HMI provides the operator with access to machine information and configured commands.

The HMIGXU5512 is suitable for packaging machinery, textile equipment, pumping installations, HVAC systems, and other applications where a larger operator display and multiple communication interfaces are required.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

• 10.1-Inch Widescreen Touchscreen

  The HMIGXU5512 uses a 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen with an 800 × 480-pixel WVGA resolution. Its display area accommodates machine diagrams, operating indicators, alarm lists, and graphical controls, making it suitable for equipment with multiple operating parameters.

• Universal Communication Architecture

  The Universal configuration combines Ethernet with two serial communication interfaces. Engineers can select the appropriate connection according to the controller, communication protocol, and existing machine architecture.

• Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX

  The integrated Ethernet port supports communication with compatible PLCs and network-connected automation equipment. It is useful in applications where the HMI needs to exchange operating data through an industrial Ethernet connection.

• Dual Serial Communication Ports

  COM1 supports RS-232C, while COM2 supports RS-422/RS-485. Having both interfaces available allows the terminal to accommodate compatible devices using different serial communication standards.

• 48 MB Application Memory

  The internal application memory stores the configured HMI project, including screen layouts, graphical objects, alarm information, and application resources.

• 128 MB Internal DDR Memory

  The integrated DDR memory supports application execution and normal touchscreen operation.

• USB Type-A and Mini-B Interfaces

  The USB Type-A interface supports compatible USB host functions, while USB Mini-B provides an engineering connection for supported programming and application-transfer operations.

• Integrated Real-Time Clock

  The built-in RTC supports applications that use time-related information, including clock displays and event records. Its clock function is useful when operating information needs to be associated with a specific time.

• IP65 Front Protection

  The front panel provides IP65 protection when installed correctly in a suitable enclosure. This helps protect the operator interface against dust and water jets encountered in industrial environments.

• Vijeo Designer Basic Support

  Vijeo Designer Basic provides the engineering environment for creating operator screens, configuring communication drivers, defining alarm functions, and organizing machine information.

Working Principle

The HMIGXU5512 operates as the visualization and operator-input terminal in a PLC-based control system. It exchanges configured data with the connected controller and presents that information through its 10.1-inch touchscreen.

During normal operation, the PLC collects signals from field sensors and executes the machine control program. Variables such as motor status, production counts, temperature, pressure, and equipment operating conditions are made available to the HMI through the configured communication connection.

The terminal reads these variables and updates the corresponding screen objects. Operators can monitor the equipment, review alarm messages, and enter authorized operating parameters through the touchscreen.

When an operator changes a setpoint or selects a configured command, the HMI transfers the corresponding data to the PLC. The controller evaluates the input according to its programmed logic before executing the requested machine operation.

The HMIGXU5512 supports three main communication paths:

• Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX for compatible network-connected controllers.
• RS-232C through COM1 for supported point-to-point serial communication.
• RS-422/RS-485 through COM2 for compatible serial equipment.

For example, a packaging machine may use Ethernet to communicate with its main PLC while COM2 connects to a compatible serial device. The operator can monitor production speed, machine status, alarm conditions, and other operating values from the same touchscreen.

The USB interfaces support compatible engineering and peripheral operations. Vijeo Designer Basic is used to configure the application, communication drivers, and screen functions before the terminal is put into service.

Typical Ethernet Communication Path:

PLC / Controller → Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX → HMIGXU5512 → Graphical Display → Operator Input → PLC

Typical Serial Communication Path:

Serial Controller / Device → RS-232C or RS-422/RS-485 → HMIGXU5512 → Operator Interface

Application Development Path:

Engineering Computer → Vijeo Designer Basic → USB Connection → HMIGXU5512

Role in Harmony Easy GXU Control Architecture

Within the Harmony Easy GXU family, the HMIGXU5512 serves as the 10.1-inch Universal operator interface. Its communication configuration distinguishes it from the HMIGXU5500 Basic model, which does not include Ethernet or USB Type-A connectivity.

The HMIGXU5512 handles machine visualization, operator commands, and alarm presentation. The connected PLC continues to execute control logic, process field signals, and manage the actual operation of motors, pumps, valves, and other equipment.

Its Ethernet and serial interfaces allow the HMI to accommodate different communication requirements within the same machine. For example, Ethernet can be used for the main PLC connection while a serial interface handles a compatible peripheral device.

The separation between visualization and machine control is important. The HMI provides the operator with access to configured functions, but safety-related control and essential machine interlocks should remain within the appropriate independent control architecture.

Industrial Applications

Installation and Maintenance

1. Verify the Model Configuration: Confirm that the terminal is HMIGXU5512. Do not confuse it with HMIGXU5500, which has a basic serial communication configuration without integrated Ethernet.
2. Prepare the Panel Opening: Check that the enclosure cutout matches the specified 255 × 185 mm mounting requirement before installing the terminal.
3. Inspect Mounting Hardware: Check the mounting fixings and anti-drop hooks. Ensure that the terminal is securely positioned against the enclosure surface.
4. Verify the Power Supply: Use a regulated 24 V DC supply and inspect the power connector for loose terminals or damaged wiring.
5. Check Grounding Arrangements: Connect the functional ground according to the electrical installation requirements to reduce electrical interference.
6. Inspect the Ethernet Connection: Check the RJ45 connector, network cable, and link indicators. Verify that the connected PLC and network equipment use compatible communication settings.
7. Check Both Serial Interfaces: Inspect COM1 and COM2 separately. Verify connector pin assignments and cable wiring before connecting external devices.
8. Configure Communication Parameters: Set the appropriate PLC driver, Ethernet IP address, serial protocol, baud rate, and other required communication settings.
9. Verify the HMI Application: Confirm that the Vijeo Designer Basic project matches the HMIGXU5512 hardware configuration and the connected controller.
10. Test Touchscreen Functions: Check screen navigation, numerical input, operating commands, and alarm displays before returning the machine to production.
11. Inspect Front-Panel Sealing: Check the front gasket and enclosure contact area periodically. Damaged seals or incorrect mounting can affect the specified IP65 protection.
12. Back Up Application Data: Keep a copy of the HMI project, Ethernet settings, serial communication parameters, and machine configuration records for future maintenance and replacement.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Related Models

Key Advantages

• 10.1-inch widescreen LCD touchscreen.
• 800 × 480-pixel WVGA resolution.
• 65,536 display colors.
• Integrated Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX.
• Two serial communication ports.
• RS-232C and RS-422/RS-485 support.
• USB Type-A and USB Mini-B interfaces.
• 48 MB application memory.
• 128 MB internal DDR memory.
• Integrated real-time clock.
• IP65 front-panel protection.
• Vijeo Designer Basic configuration software.

Technical FAQs

Can the HMIGXU5512 communicate with a PLC through Ethernet and a serial device at the same time?

The terminal has an Ethernet interface, an RS-232C port, and an RS-422/RS-485 port. These interfaces provide different communication options within an automation system. Actual simultaneous communication depends on the configured HMI application, supported drivers, and the connected devices.

What is the difference between COM1 and COM2 on the HMIGXU5512?

COM1 uses RS-232C communication, while COM2 supports RS-422/RS-485. The distinction affects cable wiring, connector pin assignments, and communication settings. Engineers should select the interface according to the communication standard supported by the connected controller or peripheral device.

Can the HMIGXU5512 use a USB device for application maintenance?

The terminal includes both USB Type-A and USB Mini-B interfaces. USB Type-A supports compatible host functions, while USB Mini-B provides an engineering connection. The actual operation depends on the device, software version, and supported transfer function.

What should be checked when replacing an HMIGXU5500 with an HMIGXU5512?

The two models share the 10.1-inch display format, but their communication configurations differ. When upgrading from HMIGXU5500 to HMIGXU5512, engineers should review the HMI application, PLC communication drivers, Ethernet settings, serial wiring, and USB connections. The project should be checked against the target hardware before commissioning.