Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE PowerFlex 700S AC Drive is an industrial variable frequency drive designed for advanced control of three-phase AC motors. Manufactured by Rockwell Automation, it belongs to the PowerFlex 700S family and uses Phase II control technology to support applications requiring precise motor-speed and torque regulation.

Unlike a basic variable frequency drive used primarily for straightforward speed adjustment, the PowerFlex 700S is designed for more demanding motor-control tasks. Its control architecture supports field-oriented control, programmable operating parameters, and encoder-based feedback capabilities. These features make it suitable for selected industrial machines where motor response and coordinated operation are important.

This model has a nominal 240 V AC three-phase input rating, with a continuous output current of 9.6 A. Its power ratings are 3 HP for normal-duty applications and 2 HP for heavy-duty applications. The drive is designed for compatible motors operating within these electrical limits.

The 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE configuration includes Phase II control, an expanded control cassette, a standard incremental encoder interface, an installed braking IGBT, and an EMC filter with common-mode choke. It has an IP20 / NEMA Type 1 enclosure configuration and conformal coating. It does not include an internal braking resistor, an installed human interface module, or an internal communication module.

These configuration details should be considered when selecting a replacement. PowerFlex 700S drives may share a similar appearance while differing in control hardware, feedback options, voltage ratings, and communication capabilities.

Technical Specifications

Specifications should be checked against the drive nameplate and applicable technical documentation before installation. Dimensions and weight are the supplied listing values.

Function and Working Principle

The PowerFlex 700S regulates the electrical power delivered to a motor. It converts incoming AC power into a controlled output, allowing the motor to operate at different speeds and respond to changing torque demands.

1. Variable-Frequency Operation

The drive adjusts the output frequency and voltage supplied to the motor. This allows the motor speed to follow a process reference instead of remaining fixed at the speed associated with the incoming power supply.

In an automated production line, for example, the motor may need to accelerate during material transfer and slow down when products reach a positioning station. The drive can execute these changes through programmed speed references and operating parameters.

2. Phase II Field-Oriented Control

The 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE uses PowerFlex 700S Phase II control. Field-oriented control manages motor current components to regulate motor flux and torque.

This control approach supports more sophisticated motor operation than basic scalar frequency control. It can be useful in applications where torque response, speed regulation, and coordinated machine movement are important.

The final performance depends on motor characteristics, drive configuration, tuning, and whether the application uses encoder feedback.

3. Incremental Encoder Feedback

The specified configuration includes a standard incremental encoder interface. An encoder can provide information about motor speed and position-related movement to the drive.

When correctly connected and configured, feedback can support improved speed regulation and control performance. The encoder type, signal format, voltage, wiring, and mechanical installation must match the drive’s supported interface.

The encoder interface should not be confused with an encoder supplied as part of the drive. The actual feedback device and its wiring should be verified separately.

4. Acceleration and Deceleration Control

The drive supports independently programmable acceleration and deceleration times. These parameters define how quickly the motor changes speed.

Appropriate ramp settings can reduce mechanical shock, improve process transitions, and help protect connected machinery. For applications involving frequent stopping or high-inertia loads, the braking-energy requirements must also be evaluated.

5. Dynamic Braking Circuit

The model has a braking IGBT installed but does not include an internal braking resistor. The IGBT is a switching component used to control a braking circuit; it does not independently dissipate regenerated energy.

If the motor frequently decelerates a high-inertia load, an external braking resistor or another suitable braking arrangement may be necessary. Selection must follow the manufacturer’s electrical and thermal requirements.

Role in Industrial Automation Systems

The PowerFlex 700S can serve as an advanced motor-control component within a PLC-based or coordinated automation system.

PLC Coordination

A PLC can manage machine sequences and issue operating commands to the drive. Depending on the installation, the PLC may control start and stop conditions, speed references, and machine interlocks.

The 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE does not include an internal communication module in its specified configuration. Engineers should therefore confirm the available control interface and any additional hardware needed for the intended PLC connection.

Motion and Speed Feedback

The incremental encoder interface provides a way to incorporate motor feedback into the control strategy. This can be useful where the motor must maintain a defined speed despite changing mechanical loads.

For applications requiring coordinated motion across multiple axes, the overall system architecture must be evaluated to determine whether the drive and its control options meet the required performance.

Operator Interface

An HMI can provide operating commands, process information, alarms, and diagnostic displays. In many installations, the HMI communicates with a PLC that manages the drive.

This particular catalog configuration does not include an installed HIM. Local programming and operator-access requirements should be checked before commissioning or maintenance.

Industrial Applications

The PowerFlex 700S series is designed for industrial motor-control applications requiring configurable operation and advanced control capabilities. The 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE is rated at 3 HP normal duty and 2 HP heavy duty, so the motor and application must remain within its specified electrical limits.

1. Material Handling Equipment

Conveyors, transfer mechanisms, and compact handling machines may require controlled acceleration, speed regulation, and coordinated stopping.

The drive’s programmable control parameters can help match motor operation to the movement requirements of the machine.

2. Packaging Machinery

Packaging equipment often relies on controlled motor speed to synchronize feeding, conveying, and processing operations. Encoder feedback may be useful where stable speed is important during changes in load or operating conditions.

The suitability of the drive depends on the required synchronization accuracy and the machine’s control architecture.

3. Industrial Pumps

Some pumping applications require adjustable motor speed to match changing process demand. A variable frequency drive can regulate motor speed within the limits of the pump and motor.

Before installation, check minimum speed, motor cooling, fluid characteristics, and the required torque profile.

4. Fans and Blowers

Industrial fans and blowers may use variable-speed control to adjust airflow. Proper speed regulation can help match ventilation output to process requirements.

The drive must be installed in a suitable enclosure with adequate ventilation and environmental protection.

5. General Manufacturing Machinery

The drive may be used in compatible production machines requiring controlled motor acceleration, speed adjustment, and feedback-based operation.

Its Phase II control and encoder interface can be relevant to applications where a basic open-loop drive does not provide the required control performance.

Installation and System Integration

Proper installation is essential for safe operation and reliable performance.

1. Verify the Input Supply

Confirm that the incoming supply matches the drive’s 240 V AC three-phase rating and applicable operating range. Check supply frequency, motor voltage, motor current, and protective-device requirements.

Do not select a drive based only on the motor’s horsepower. Continuous current, overload capability, and load characteristics must also be considered.

2. Mounting and Environmental Conditions

The supplied dimensions are 336 × 166.9 × 200 mm, with a listed weight of 7.03 kg. Verify the physical dimensions and mounting arrangement against the actual unit before preparing the control cabinet.

The IP20 / NEMA Type 1 enclosure configuration is intended for installation in a suitable protected environment. It does not provide unrestricted protection against water or dust ingress.

Maintain adequate ventilation and clearance around the drive. Avoid locations exposed to excessive heat, conductive dust, moisture, or corrosive substances unless the installation provides suitable protection.

3. Power and Motor Wiring

Connect the incoming supply and motor conductors according to the manufacturer’s installation requirements. Use correctly rated conductors, protective devices, grounding, and cable routing.

Keep control and feedback wiring appropriately separated from power conductors to reduce electrical interference. Follow the required shielding and grounding practices for the incremental encoder connection.

4. Encoder Installation

When encoder feedback is required, confirm that the encoder’s electrical characteristics match the drive interface. Check the supply voltage, signal type, wiring polarity, shielding, and mechanical coupling.

Incorrect feedback wiring or configuration may cause unstable operation, speed-regulation errors, or drive faults.

5. Parameter Configuration

Configure the motor nameplate information, control mode, speed references, acceleration and deceleration times, and protection parameters.

For field-oriented control, follow the required motor identification and tuning procedures. If encoder feedback is used, verify the feedback configuration and direction before operating the machine under load.

6. Braking Arrangement

The drive includes a braking IGBT but no internal braking resistor. Applications requiring dynamic braking should be evaluated to determine the appropriate external braking equipment.

Confirm resistor ratings, duty cycle, thermal requirements, wiring, and protective arrangements before commissioning.

7. Commissioning and Functional Testing

Before returning the machine to service, inspect the wiring, grounding, feedback connections, and cabinet ventilation.

Test motor direction, start and stop commands, speed references, encoder feedback, acceleration and deceleration, interlocks, and fault responses. Record the final parameter configuration for future maintenance.

Compatible System Components

The 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE can be integrated into a wider industrial control system with appropriately selected components.

The table lists possible system components. It does not mean that these items are included with the drive.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

The PowerFlex 700S 20D family has been discontinued. When replacing an existing unit, the complete catalog number and installed options should be reviewed before selecting another drive.

Before approving a replacement, compare:

• Input voltage and phase configuration.
• Continuous output current and overload ratings.
• Normal-duty and heavy-duty power ratings.
• Phase II control requirements.
• Encoder feedback compatibility.
• Communication and PLC interface requirements.
• Braking IGBT and external resistor arrangements.
• EMC filtering and enclosure requirements.
• Mounting dimensions and cooling requirements.
• Existing motor parameters and machine-control logic.

A replacement with the same horsepower rating may still differ in control functionality or electrical configuration. A detailed compatibility review is recommended.

Key Advantages

Advanced Phase II Control

The drive uses a field-oriented control architecture designed for applications requiring more advanced motor regulation.

Encoder Feedback Capability

The standard incremental encoder interface supports feedback-based motor control when a compatible encoder is installed and configured.

Adjustable Motor Speed

Variable-frequency operation allows motor speed to be matched to changing production and process requirements.

Programmable Acceleration and Deceleration

Independent ramp settings provide flexibility when controlling motor starts, stops, and speed transitions.

Integrated Braking IGBT

The installed braking IGBT provides a braking-circuit capability. An external braking resistor may still be required depending on the application.

EMC Filtering

The specified EMC filter with common-mode choke helps manage electromagnetic interference when the drive is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Conformal Coating

The configuration includes conformal coating on electronic assemblies. This provides an additional level of protection but does not eliminate the need for a suitable installation environment.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the Allen-Bradley 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE?

It is a PowerFlex 700S AC drive with Phase II control, designed for three-phase AC motor applications requiring configurable speed and torque regulation.

2. What is its rated output current?

The continuous output current rating is 9.6 A.

3. What is the motor power rating?

The drive is rated at 3 HP for normal-duty operation and 2 HP for heavy-duty operation.

4. What input voltage does this model use?

It is a 240 V AC nominal, three-phase model. The manufacturer’s configuration also identifies a 208 V AC operating rating. Confirm the drive nameplate and applicable supply range before installation.

5. Does this drive support encoder feedback?

Yes. The specified configuration includes a standard incremental encoder interface. The encoder itself and its wiring should be verified separately.

6. Does it include an internal braking resistor?

No. It has a braking IGBT installed but does not include an internal braking resistor. An external braking arrangement may be required for applications with significant regenerative energy.

7. Does it have a built-in communication module?

No internal communication module is included in this configuration. Confirm the required PLC interface and any additional communication hardware before system integration.

8. Is the drive suitable for closed-loop motor control?

Its incremental encoder interface supports feedback-based control configurations. The exact control strategy and performance depend on the motor, encoder, parameters, and application requirements.

9. Is the 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE still in production?

No. Rockwell Automation lists the model as discontinued, with a discontinuation date of June 30, 2023. Availability should be checked with industrial spare-parts suppliers.

10. What should be checked before purchasing a replacement?

Verify the full catalog number, input voltage, output current, duty rating, Phase II control configuration, encoder interface, braking options, and physical condition. For used equipment, request clear nameplate photographs and available test information.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

Since this PowerFlex 700S model has been discontinued, accurate catalog-number identification is important when sourcing replacement equipment.

Before ordering, confirm that the unit is the exact 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE configuration. Check the 240 V AC input class, 9.6 A continuous output rating, Phase II control, expanded cassette, encoder interface, braking IGBT, and EMC filtering.

For used or refurbished drives, request photographs of the nameplate, terminals, and overall enclosure. Confirm the condition of the cooling system and connectors, and ask for functional test information where available. Verify whether the product includes accessories or is supplied as a standalone drive.

For maintenance, keep the enclosure clean and ensure cooling airflow remains unobstructed. Inspect power connections, grounding, encoder wiring, and cabinet conditions according to the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Back up drive parameters and document any changes made during troubleshooting or commissioning.

When replacing the drive, review the existing motor, encoder, PLC program, control wiring, and braking arrangement. A newer model may require changes to wiring, feedback configuration, control logic, or commissioning procedures.

Conclusion

The Allen-Bradley 20DB9P6A0EYNANANE PowerFlex 700S AC Drive is a Phase II control variable frequency drive with a 240 V AC three-phase input rating and a 9.6 A continuous output rating. Its 3 HP normal-duty and 2 HP heavy-duty ratings make it suitable for compatible industrial motor applications.

With field-oriented control, an incremental encoder interface, an installed braking IGBT, and EMC filtering, this configuration supports more advanced motor-control requirements. Since the model is discontinued, careful verification of its catalog number, condition, and system compatibility is essential when sourcing spare parts or planning an equipment replacement.