New Machine Build- Can PowerFlex components be swapped to make one good drive?

[torinwalker]

I'm in a bit of a bind. I bought a PowerFlex 70 online and while I got a good deal because it's missing the human interface, I quickly realized that the RS-232 and USB connectors are actually not as easy to find as I anticipated (go figure.)

I now have an opportunity to make due by buying another drive with the full numeric LCD panel for roughly what it'd cost for an RS-232 interface, so if I can swap out the parts to make one drive whole again, I may as well do it that way.

I know that some systems have software that detects when modules are installed and turn on automatically, so it's not a stretch to imagine I could just pull the LCD from one and install it into another.

Does anyone have any experience piecing together these drives?


Torin...

[torinwalker]

Well, I've answered my own questions. In fact, there are several user-installable options including the HIM, internal brake resistor, filter, encoder, and firmware, of course, assuming you can find an RS232 (1203-SSS) adapter with which to perform brain surgery on the drive. Most parts are easily interchangeable across variants of the PowerFlex 70 series, but the brake resistor and encoders are more specific, supporting a particular drive class. Many of these options are supported by A-B (rockwell), but they can be had on EBay or Kijiji/Craigslist for 1/2 the price (or less), typically, if one is willing to wait a few weeks.

Ordering a 20A-HIM-A3 (in my case) obviated having to interface with the unit via PC and will suffice in my case where I need only program the drive once.


Torin...