B&R 3IF681.96 System 2005 Interface Module with RS232 and 10BASE-T Ethernet

Product Overview

The B&R 3IF681.96 is a specialized interface module developed by B&R Industrial Automation, now a part of the ABB Group, as an integral component of the System 2005 programmable control computer (PCC) platform. This interface module provides the essential communication bridge between the central processing unit and external devices, offering both RS232 serial connectivity and 10BASE-T Ethernet network capability in a single compact form factor. The B&R 3IF681.96 is specifically designed to be installed in interface module slots within the CP260 power supply/CPU module or the IF260 interface expansion module, making it a versatile solution for system integration and legacy automation infrastructure. The B&R 3IF681.96 does not execute control logic itself—that function belongs to the 3CP series CPU modules, analog/digital I/O modules, and ACOPOS motion controllers—but rather serves as a dedicated communication gateway for engineer workstations, human-machine interface (HMI) panels, barcode readers, weighing instruments, and other peripheral equipment. The B&R 3IF681.96 is distinguished by its dual interface design, featuring a 9-pin DSUB RS232 port on one side and a female RJ45 10BASE-T Ethernet connection on the other. The suffix ".96" specifically designates the twisted pair RJ45 version, whereas the B&R 3IF681.95 variant uses a 10BASE2 BNC coaxial connection for Cheapernet networks . The "B R" suffix appended to the model number indicates a specific revision variant, with "B" potentially referring to a terminal or variant option and "R" denoting a hardware revision, while maintaining the same core electrical and functional specifications as the base .96 model. As part of the System 2005 product family, the B&R 3IF681.96 exemplifies B&R's commitment to backward compatibility and long-term industrial support, making it an invaluable resource for maintaining legacy automation systems in the field.

 

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name Value
Product Model B&R 3IF681.96
Manufacturer B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group)
Product Type Interface Communication Module
Series System 2005 PCC
Compatible Slots CP260 interface slot / IF260 interface module
Interface IF1 – RS232 9-pin DSUB male connector
RS232 Controller ST16C650 UART with 32-byte TX/RX FIFO
RS232 Maximum Baud Rate 115.2 kbaud
RS232 Maximum Distance 15 m at 19,200 baud
RS232 Handshake Lines DTR, DSR, RTS, CTS
RS232 Electrical Isolation No
Interface IF2 – Ethernet 10BASE-T twisted pair RJ45 female connector
Ethernet Controller AM79C960 with 128 KB send/receive buffer
Ethernet Maximum Speed 10 Mbit/s
Ethernet Electrical Isolation Yes
Ethernet Bus Capable Yes
Power Consumption (5 V DC) 1.65 W maximum
Power Consumption (24 V DC) N/A
Operating Temperature 0°C to +60°C (within system cabinet)
Certifications CE, cULus E115267
Weight 0.10 kg
Dimensions (L × W × H) 1.80 × 8.60 × 14.00 cm
Country of Origin Austria

 

Main Features and Advantages

The B&R 3IF681.96 delivers reliable, industrial-grade communication capability through its carefully engineered dual-interface architecture, making it an indispensable module for System 2005 installations. The serial interface, powered by the ST16C650 UART controller, provides asynchronous serial communication with a maximum speed of 115.2 kbaud, making it suitable for connecting legacy field devices, programming terminals, and diagnostic equipment. Although the interface does not include electrical isolation—a factor that demands careful attention to grounding and installation practices—it is equipped with input filtering and protective circuitry that maintains signal integrity in typical industrial environments. The inclusion of hardware handshake lines including DTR, DSR, RTS, and CTS ensures reliable flow control, preventing data loss during critical communication sessions .

The Ethernet interface of the B&R 3IF681.96 is designed around the AM79C960 controller, featuring a 128 KB send/receive buffer and 10BASE-T twisted pair connectivity via a standard RJ45 connector. This interface offers complete electrical isolation, protecting the control system from potential ground loops or voltage differentials that could compromise system stability. As a bus-capable interface, the Ethernet port supports network connectivity for INA2000 station addressing, configured through dual BCD rotary switches on the module face, facilitating integration into broader industrial network architectures .

A key advantage of the B&R 3IF681.96 is its exceptional power efficiency, consuming only 1.65 W maximum, which minimizes thermal load within the control cabinet and contributes to overall system reliability. The module’s compact single-width form factor allows space-efficient deployment in rack-based systems, while its compatibility with both CP260 and IF260 slots provides flexible installation options. For operators maintaining legacy System 2005 automation networks, the B&R 3IF681.96 represents an authoritative, manufacturer-supported solution backed by comprehensive documentation, hardware upgrades, and technical specifications available through B&R’s Automation Studio platform. The clear LED indicators for transmit/receive and Ethernet link/activity status simplify installation verification and field troubleshooting, enabling maintenance personnel to quickly assess module operational health .

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