ICS Triplex TC-304-01 Maintenance Cable

ICS Triplex TC-304-01 Trusted Maintenance & Diagnostic Cable

The ICS Triplex TC-304-01 is a maintenance and diagnostic cable engineered for Trusted TMR controller systems. It connects a host computer to Trusted processors (e.g., T8110) or communication interfaces (e.g., T8151) via RS232, enabling firmware updates, event log retrieval, configuration, and real-time system health monitoring.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: TC-304-01
• Product Type: Maintenance / Diagnostic Cable
• Manufacturer: ICS Triplex (Rockwell Automation)
• Cable Length: 6 ft (1.8 m) standard; 5 m extended version available (TC-304-01-5M0)
• Communication Protocol: RS232 asynchronous serial (up to 115.2 kbps)
• Connectors: DB9 male (9-way D-type) + 6-way DIN male (EN 50011)
• Cable Type: 6-core shielded twisted-pair (Belden 9536 equivalent)
• Wire Gauge: 24 AWG stranded copper
• Impedance: 100 ohms
• Shielding: Dual foil & braid (≥90 dB at 100 kHz–1 GHz)
• Voltage Rating: 300 V AC/DC
• Current Rating: 1 A per conductor max
• Jacket Material: Oil-resistant, flame-retardant PVC (UL 94 V-0)
• Cable Diameter: 6 mm
• Min Bend Radius: 30 mm (dynamic) / 18 mm (static)
• Weight: Approx. 0.56–0.6 kg
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
• Storage Temperature: -55°C to +85°C
• Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
• Compliance: CE marked, RoHS compliant, REACH compliant, IEC 61010-1

Features & Benefits

1. Hot-Swap Diagnostics: Enables firmware uploads and fault troubleshooting without system shutdown.
2. Dual Shielding: Foil + braid construction eliminates EMI/RFI in high-noise industrial environments.
3. Impedance Matched: 100-ohm design prevents signal reflection for error-free data transfer up to 115.2 kbps.
4. Industrial-Grade Jacket: Oil-resistant, flame-retardant PVC withstands harsh chemicals and mechanical stress.
5. Factory Tested: 100% tested for continuity, insulation, and shielding integrity.

Applications

• Trusted TMR processor diagnostics and firmware updates
• Event log retrieval and system health monitoring
• Control room and field maintenance operations
• Commissioning and startup of safety-critical systems

FAQ

Q: What systems is the TC-304-01 compatible with?
A: It connects to Trusted T8110 TMR processors, T8151 communication interfaces, and other Trusted modules with RS232 diagnostic ports.

Q: Can I use this cable for Ethernet communication?
A: No. The TC-304-01 is an RS232 serial cable. For Ethernet, use the module's native Ethernet ports with standard CAT5e/CAT6 cables.

Q: Is the 5-meter version the same as the standard TC-304-01?
A: The TC-304-01-5M0 is a 5-meter variant with identical electrical specifications. Standard length is approximately 1.8 m (6 ft).

Q: Does this cable support hot-plugging?
A: Yes, when connected to modules that support hot-swap diagnostics. Always verify your specific module's hot-swap capability in the manual.

Installation Guide

1. Identify the RS232 diagnostic port on your Trusted processor or communication module.
2. Connect the DB9 male end to your PC or laptop serial port (or USB-to-serial adapter).
3. Connect the 6-way DIN male end to the Trusted module diagnostic port.
4. Launch Trusted diagnostics software and verify communication handshake.
5. Perform required maintenance tasks (firmware update, log retrieval, etc.).
6. Disconnect carefully after use; replace dust caps on connectors.

Selection Tips

• Length: Choose 1.8 m for control room use; 5 m for field or panel-access applications.
• Adapter: If your PC lacks a native RS232 port, use a high-quality USB-to-RS232 adapter with FTDI chipset.
• Port Verification: Confirm your Trusted module has an active diagnostic port—not all I/O modules include this interface.