Product Overview

The Schneider Electric TM241CEC24R is a programmable logic controller (PLC) from the Modicon M241 series, intended for machine automation and distributed control applications. It combines embedded digital inputs and outputs with Ethernet, CANopen, and serial communication interfaces, allowing it to manage machine operations while exchanging data with other automation devices.

This model has 24 embedded I/O points, consisting of 14 digital inputs and 10 digital outputs. The input section includes eight high-speed inputs and six regular inputs. On the output side, four high-speed source transistor outputs are available for pulse-generation applications, while six relay outputs support conventional switching tasks.

One distinguishing feature of the TM241CEC24R is its combination of Ethernet and CANopen Master communication. This allows the controller to communicate with Ethernet-connected equipment while also managing a CANopen network containing compatible drives, remote I/O devices, and other field-level components.

For example, on an automated packaging machine, the controller can monitor photoelectric sensors, position switches, and machine status signals through its embedded inputs. Its relay outputs can operate suitable auxiliary loads, while the fast transistor outputs can generate pulses for compatible motion-related devices. CANopen communication can be used to exchange operating data with connected drive equipment.

The controller also includes two serial communication interfaces and a USB Mini-B programming port. These interfaces are useful when integrating equipment that uses serial communication or when connecting a programming computer during commissioning and maintenance.

Its 100–240 V AC power input distinguishes it from the 24 V DC-powered transistor-output versions in the same M241 family. This makes the TM241CEC24R particularly relevant to machine installations where an AC-powered controller with relay outputs and CANopen networking is required.

The controller can also be expanded through compatible Modicon expansion modules, allowing additional I/O and communication capabilities to be incorporated as machine requirements grow.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

• 24 Embedded I/O Points: Combines 14 digital inputs and 10 digital outputs for direct connection to machine-level signals.
• High-Speed Input Processing: Includes eight high-speed inputs suitable for counting and monitoring fast-changing signals.
• Mixed Output Configuration: Combines six 2 A relay outputs with four high-speed source transistor outputs.
• CANopen Master Communication: Supports communication with compatible CANopen drives, distributed I/O, and field devices.
• Integrated Ethernet: Provides an Ethernet interface for controller programming and industrial network communication.
• Dual Serial Interfaces: Includes two serial communication ports for connecting compatible serial equipment.
• USB Mini-B Programming Port: Allows connection to a programming computer running EcoStruxure Machine Expert.
• AC Power Input: Accepts a 100–240 V AC supply, making it suitable for control cabinets with AC power distribution.
• Expansion Capability: Supports compatible Modicon expansion modules for additional machine I/O and communication functions.
• DIN Rail Installation: Uses a 35 mm DIN rail mounting arrangement for control cabinet integration.
• Removable Terminal Blocks: Simplifies field wiring and facilitates controller replacement during maintenance.
• Integrated Status Indicators: Provides LED indication for I/O states and controller operating conditions.

Product Working Principle

The TM241CEC24R executes a stored automation program to monitor input signals, process machine conditions, and control connected output devices.

During operation, sensors and switches connected to the digital input terminals provide information about the machine. The controller reads these signals and evaluates them according to the programmed logic in EcoStruxure Machine Expert.

For example, on a conveyor system, a photoelectric sensor can detect the arrival of a product at a transfer station. The controller evaluates the sensor signal together with other operating conditions, such as motor status and downstream equipment availability. When the required conditions are satisfied, the program activates the appropriate output or sends a communication command to another device.

The output arrangement provides two different control methods. Six relay outputs can switch compatible electrical loads, while four source transistor outputs can generate high-speed pulses for equipment requiring pulse-based control signals.

The communication interfaces extend this operation beyond the embedded I/O terminals. Ethernet supports communication with supervisory systems and other network devices, while the CANopen Master interface manages data exchange with compatible field devices.

The two serial interfaces provide additional connectivity for equipment using supported serial communication protocols. A USB Mini-B connection is available for programming and maintenance.

A simplified control sequence is:

Sensors / Switches → Digital Inputs → TM241CEC24R CPU → Program Execution → Relay / Transistor Outputs and Communication Networks → Machine Equipment

The controller continuously repeats this process during normal operation. Its control program determines how input conditions, internal variables, communication data, and output commands interact.

The CANopen Master capability is particularly useful when a machine includes several networked devices. Instead of wiring every control signal directly to the PLC, compatible devices can exchange information through the CANopen network.

Role in Schneider Electric Modicon M241 Control Architecture

Within the Modicon M241 architecture, the TM241CEC24R serves as the central machine controller, coordinating embedded I/O, communication networks, and compatible expansion equipment.

Its combination of Ethernet and CANopen Master makes it suitable for applications requiring communication between the main PLC, operator interfaces, motor drives, and distributed field devices.

The Ethernet interface can connect the controller to an HMI, engineering workstation, or industrial network. The CANopen interface provides a separate communication path for compatible drives and distributed devices. This arrangement helps separate higher-level machine communication from field-level device networking.

A representative architecture is:

Sensors / Actuators → TM241CEC24R → CANopen Network / Ethernet Network → Drives / HMI / Supervisory Equipment

The TM241CEC24R is particularly useful when a machine requires both local hardwired I/O and network-based communication without moving to a larger modular PLC architecture.

Industrial Applications

The TM241CEC24R is suitable for machinery and equipment requiring a combination of relay switching, high-speed pulse outputs, and industrial network communication.

Installation and Maintenance

1. Verify Controller Model: Confirm that the TM241CEC24R is the required AC-powered relay-output version, rather than a similar M241 model with a 24 V DC supply or transistor-only outputs.
2. Prepare the DIN Rail: Install a suitable 35 mm DIN rail inside the control cabinet and ensure that the mounting surface is secure.
3. Check Power Requirements: Prepare a 100–240 V AC supply at 50/60 Hz and verify the protective grounding arrangement before connecting the controller.
4. Inspect Terminal Blocks: Check the removable screw terminal blocks for damage and confirm that the wiring matches the controller terminal assignments.
5. Connect Digital Inputs: Wire the field sensors and switches to the 14 embedded digital inputs, observing the specified input wiring configuration.
6. Wire Output Devices: Connect suitable loads to the six relay outputs and four high-speed source transistor outputs according to their respective electrical ratings.
7. Configure CANopen Communication: Set the required CANopen network parameters and verify node addressing and bus termination before commissioning connected devices.
8. Connect Ethernet and Serial Devices: Attach the required Ethernet and serial communication cables, checking the communication settings of each connected device.
9. Install and Configure the Program: Connect a programming computer through the USB Mini-B port and use EcoStruxure Machine Expert to configure the controller and load the application.
10. Check Expansion Connections: If TM3 or compatible TM4 expansion modules are installed, verify the bus connections and hardware configuration before starting the system.
11. Test Controller Operation: Check the Run/Stop status, I/O indicators, communication status, and programmed machine sequences under controlled operating conditions.
12. Perform Routine Inspection: Periodically inspect terminal connections, DIN rail mounting, ventilation clearance, wiring condition, and communication interfaces.

During troubleshooting, pay particular attention to the difference between relay outputs and high-speed transistor outputs. They serve different electrical functions and should not be treated as interchangeable when replacing the controller or modifying field wiring.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Related Models

Key Advantages

• 24 embedded digital I/O points.
• Eight high-speed inputs for counting applications.
• Four high-speed source transistor outputs.
• Six 2 A relay outputs.
• Integrated Ethernet and CANopen Master communication.
• Two serial communication interfaces.
• USB Mini-B programming connection.
• 100–240 V AC power supply.
• Compatible Modicon expansion architecture.
• 35 mm DIN rail mounting.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the main difference between the TM241CEC24R and TM241CE24R?

Both controllers have 24 embedded I/O points, 14 digital inputs, and 10 digital outputs, including six relay outputs and four high-speed transistor outputs. The key difference is communication capability. The TM241CEC24R includes an additional CANopen Master interface, while the TM241CE24R does not.

2. Can the TM241CEC24R control a CANopen-compatible Altivar drive?

Yes. Its integrated CANopen Master interface supports communication with compatible CANopen devices, including supported drive configurations. The drive’s communication option, node address, baud rate, and application configuration must match the controller’s CANopen network settings.

3. Are all 10 digital outputs relay outputs?

No. The output arrangement consists of six relay outputs rated at 2 A and four high-speed source transistor outputs. The transistor outputs are intended for pulse-generation applications, so the connected equipment and wiring must be selected according to the output type.

4. Can the TM241CEC24R be expanded beyond its built-in 24 I/O points?

Yes. The M241 platform supports compatible Modicon expansion modules, including TM3 I/O modules. Additional modules can be selected according to the required signal types and system configuration, subject to the controller’s expansion limits and compatibility requirements.