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- Siemens
- 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0
- KP8 Design Blank Front
- Germany
- 98 × 155 × 49 mm
- 0.31 kg
- Xiamen, China
- New & In Stock
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Product Overview
The Siemens 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0 KP8 Design Blank Front is an empty front panel in the SIMATIC HMI KP8 format. Unlike an electronic operator panel with integrated keys and communication interfaces, this version serves as a mounting platform for standard 22.5 mm operator control and signaling devices.
It is useful when a machine builder needs a customized operator station rather than a fixed arrangement of integrated keys. Pushbuttons, selector switches and indicator lamps can be positioned according to the machine’s operating requirements, allowing the panel layout to reflect the actual sequence of operator actions.
The blank front is also suitable for installation in the Extension Unit of compatible 15-inch and 19-inch, 4:3 SIMATIC PRO devices. This makes it relevant to machine installations where additional physical controls are required alongside an existing HMI or industrial panel PC.
Because the front is supplied without integrated operator keys or electronic control functions, the installed pushbuttons, switches and indicators must be selected separately. Their electrical connections, signal processing and control behavior depend on the components installed and the wider machine-control architecture.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Siemens |
| Model / Order Number | 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0 |
| Product Family | SIMATIC HMI KP8/KP8F/KP32F |
| Product Type | KP8 Design Blank Front |
| Product Category | HMI Operator Panel Accessory |
| Front Design | Empty front panel |
| Supported Operator Devices | Standard 22.5 mm operator controls |
| Number of Control Device Positions | Up to 5 |
| Integrated Keys | None |
| Integrated Communication Interfaces | None |
| PROFINET Support | No |
| PROFIsafe Support | No |
| Mounting Type | Front mounting with clamp terminals |
| Mounting Orientation | Portrait or landscape |
| Compatible Installation | KP8-format modular operator panels and compatible PRO Extension Units |
| Mounting Plate Thickness | 2–6 mm |
| Dimensions | 98 × 155 × 49 mm |
| Weight | 0.31 kg |
Product Features
- Empty front design: Allows the operator control arrangement to be customized for the machine application.
- Standard 22.5 mm controls: Accommodates compatible pushbuttons, selector switches and signaling devices.
- Modular panel construction: Supports the assembly of operator stations with individually selected controls.
- Up to five control positions: Provides mounting positions for a combination of compatible command and signaling devices.
- PRO Extension Unit compatibility: Can be incorporated into compatible SIMATIC PRO device extension arrangements.
- Front mounting: Supports installation in a prepared panel opening using the specified mounting arrangement.
- Application-specific layout: Allows control positions and device types to be selected according to operating requirements.
- No integrated electronics: Leaves control processing and electrical signal handling to the separately installed devices and automation system.
Working Principle
The 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0 functions as a mechanical mounting interface rather than an electronic HMI. It provides the front-panel positions needed to install standard operator controls, while the selected devices perform the actual switching or signaling functions.
For example, a machine builder may install a start pushbutton, a stop pushbutton, a selector switch and indicator lamps in the available positions. When an operator presses a button or changes a selector position, the installed device generates the corresponding electrical signal. That signal is then processed by the connected PLC or control circuit.
The blank front does not interpret operator commands, display process data or communicate over PROFINET. Those functions depend on the separately installed components and the machine’s electrical and control design.
This separation between the mechanical panel and the electrical devices gives machine builders greater control over the operator layout. It also means that the selected components must fit the mounting positions and be wired and configured correctly for the intended application.
Role in a SIMATIC HMI Operator Station
The KP8 Design Blank Front serves as the physical interface for a customized operator station. It complements the automation system by providing a mounting location for the controls that operators use to interact with machinery.
Operator Controls → KP8 Design Blank Front → Electrical Wiring → PLC or Machine Control Circuit → Machine Functions
| System Component | Function | Relationship to the Blank Front |
|---|---|---|
| 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0 | Provides the empty operator-panel front | Holds compatible operator and signaling devices |
| Pushbuttons | Generate discrete commands | Installed in selected control positions |
| Selector Switches | Select operating modes or control states | Provide physical mode selection |
| Indicator Lamps | Display machine status | Give operators visual feedback |
| Emergency-Stop Device, Where Required | Initiates an emergency-stop request | Must be selected and integrated into the appropriate safety circuit |
| PLC | Executes machine-control logic | Processes signals from installed operator devices |
| Safety Controller, Where Required | Executes safety-related logic | Processes signals from compatible safety devices |
| Terminal Blocks | Provide electrical connection points | Connect installed controls to field wiring |
| Control Cabinet | Houses control equipment and wiring | Provides the mounting location for the operator assembly |
| SIMATIC HMI or Industrial Panel PC | Displays process information and operating screens | Can complement the physical controls in the operator station |
Industrial Applications
| Application | Typical Equipment | Role of the Blank Front |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Building | Customized machine operator stations | Provides mounting positions for application-specific controls |
| Packaging Machinery | Filling, sealing and wrapping equipment | Accommodates controls for start, stop and operating-mode selection |
| Assembly Automation | Automated assembly workstations | Supports a dedicated arrangement of operator buttons and indicators |
| Material Handling | Conveyor and transfer systems | Provides a physical interface for selected machine commands |
| Production Lines | Distributed operator stations | Allows controls to be arranged around local operating tasks |
| Industrial Control Cabinets | Panel-mounted pushbuttons and selector switches | Supports modular operator-panel construction |
| Machine Refurbishment | Existing equipment with revised control layouts | Allows the operator interface to be reorganized using compatible devices |
| SIMATIC PRO Installations | Compatible industrial panel PC systems | Provides additional control positions in a supported Extension Unit arrangement |
Installation and Maintenance
- Verify the product reference: Confirm that 6AV3688-3XY38-3AX0 matches the intended KP8-format blank-front application.
- Plan the operator layout: Determine the number and arrangement of pushbuttons, selector switches and indicator devices required by the machine.
- Check device compatibility: Ensure that each selected operator device uses the supported 22.5 mm mounting format and fits the available positions.
- Prepare the installation opening: Check the panel cutout and mounting arrangement against the applicable mechanical installation requirements.
- Inspect the mounting surface: Ensure that the enclosure or Extension Unit interface is clean and free from damage that could prevent correct seating.
- Isolate the equipment: Follow the machine’s electrical isolation procedure before installing or wiring operator devices.
- Install the control devices: Fit each pushbutton, switch or indicator into its designated position and secure it according to the component instructions.
- Mount the blank front: Install the assembly using the specified mounting arrangement and confirm that the front panel is securely seated.
- Wire the installed devices: Connect each device according to the electrical schematic, terminal assignments and control-system requirements.
- Check safety-related controls: Where emergency-stop or other safety devices are installed, verify their connection to the appropriate safety circuit rather than treating them as ordinary PLC inputs.
- Test operator functions: Check mechanical operation, contact switching, indicator behavior and the corresponding machine response before returning the equipment to service.
- Record the configuration: Document the installed device types, terminal assignments and any changes to the operator-panel layout.
Related Components
| Component | Function | Relationship to the Blank Front |
|---|---|---|
| 22.5 mm Pushbuttons | Provide momentary operator commands | Installed in the front-panel positions |
| Selector Switches | Select operating modes | Allow the operator interface to reflect machine requirements |
| Indicator Lamps | Display machine status | Provide visual indication of control-system states |
| Emergency-Stop Devices | Initiate emergency-stop functions where required | Must be incorporated into the machine’s safety architecture |
| Terminal Blocks | Provide wiring connection points | Connect installed controls to the control cabinet |
| SIMATIC PLC | Processes machine-control signals | Executes the logic associated with operator inputs |
| Safety Controller | Processes safety-related signals | Supports appropriately configured safety functions |
| Control Cabinet | Houses electrical and automation equipment | Provides the operator-panel installation location |
| SIMATIC HMI KP8 PN | Provides integrated keys, LEDs and PROFINET communication | Alternative for applications requiring an electronic key panel |
| SIMATIC PRO Extension Unit | Provides additional operator-device mounting positions | Supports the specified compatible installation arrangement |
Recommended Related Models
| Model / Product | Product Type | Relationship | Selection Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siemens 6AV3688-3AY36-0AX0 | SIMATIC HMI KP8 PN Key Panel | Eight-key panel with integrated LEDs and PROFINET communication | Consider when a ready-made electronic key interface is required |
| Siemens 6AV3688-3AF37-0AX0 | SIMATIC HMI KP8F PN Key Panel | Eight-key panel with PROFIsafe support | Consider when the application requires compatible safety-related communication |
| Siemens 6AV3688-3EH47-0AX0 | SIMATIC HMI KP32F PN Key Panel | Integrated 32-key panel with PROFIsafe support | Consider when a larger number of integrated operator keys is required |
| Siemens 6AG1688-3XY38-2AX0 | SIPLUS HMI Design Blank Front | Related blank-front design with conformal coating and an extended temperature specification | Consider when environmental conditions require the specified SIPLUS variant |
| Siemens SIMATIC PRO Extension Unit | HMI Extension Unit | Compatible installation platform for supported PRO devices | Verify the extension-unit format and mounting arrangement |
Key Advantages
- Allows customized arrangements of standard operator controls.
- Supports modular operator-panel construction.
- Accommodates up to five compatible control and signaling devices.
- Can be integrated into supported SIMATIC PRO Extension Unit installations.
- Separates mechanical panel design from electrical control selection.
Technical FAQs
What is the difference between the KP8 Design Blank Front and the KP8 PN Key Panel?
The blank front provides mounting positions for separately selected standard operator controls. The KP8 PN is an electronic operator panel with eight integrated short-stroke keys, multicolored LEDs and PROFINET communication.
How many operator devices can be installed in the blank front?
The design supports up to five positions for compatible command and signaling devices. The final arrangement depends on the selected components and their mounting requirements.
Can the blank front communicate directly with a SIMATIC PLC?
No. The blank front has no integrated communication interfaces or electronic control functions. The installed pushbuttons, switches and indicators must be wired to the relevant PLC, control circuit or other compatible equipment.
What should be considered when using the blank front in a safety-related application?
Select safety devices appropriate to the machine’s risk assessment and connect them through the required safety architecture. The blank front is only a mounting component and does not provide safety logic or PROFIsafe communication.