Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
The Delta Tau 603605-106 is not a conventional standalone PLC CPU. It is the processor board used within the PMAC motion-control architecture, where deterministic computation and multi-axis coordination are central to machine operation.
The board is associated with PMAC-PCI systems using the DSP563xx Flex CPU architecture. Depending on the complete PMAC-PCI configuration, the system can support four or eight axes and ±10 V analog command interfaces.
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Delta Tau Data Systems
- Part Number: 603605-106
- CPU Family: DSP563xx
- Processor Speed: 40 MHz
- Board Type: Flex CPU piggyback board
- SRAM: 128K × 24, zero-wait-state Flash-backed SRAM
- Flash Memory: 512K × 8 for firmware and user backup
- EEPROM: 2K × 8 for setup-variable backup
- Serial Interface: RS-232 / RS-422
- Host Interface: PCI through the PMAC-PCI carrier
- Associated Carrier: PMAC-PCI
- PMAC-PCI Configuration: Four- or eight-axis versions depending on installed options
- Analog Command Architecture: ±10 V for compatible PMAC configurations
Artisan Technology Group identifies 603605-106 as the Flex CPU piggyback board and lists both 40 MHz and 80 MHz configurations within the broader DSP563xx family. That means the physical board number alone should not be used to infer every possible CPU configuration; the installed option/configuration should also be verified.
Field Application & the “Trench” Experience
A common legacy-motion situation is a machine that still performs its production task correctly but depends on a PMAC controller that is no longer part of the mainstream automation supply chain. When the CPU section fails, replacing the entire motion architecture can mean rewriting motion programs, retuning axes, and revalidating machine mechanics.
Picture a multi-axis machining or precision-motion system where the PMAC-PCI carrier remains functional but the Flex CPU board no longer initializes. A maintenance engineer can isolate the problem to the processor section, compare the failed board’s identification and configuration, and source a matching 603605-106 rather than replacing the entire controller assembly.
Representative applications include:
- Multi-axis machine tools using analog ±10 V servo-command interfaces.
- Precision positioning equipment requiring coordinated axis motion.
- Legacy semiconductor or electronics machinery where established PMAC motion programs are difficult to migrate.
- Automated manufacturing machinery using PMAC-PCI controllers for synchronized servo control.
The PMAC-PCI architecture is documented as a multi-axis motion controller with onboard axis-interface circuitry and optional additional channels.
603605-106
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
For this particular board, configuration verification is as important as electrical testing.
A practical inspection sequence is:
1. Identification — verify 603605-106, the DSP563xx Flex CPU marking, board revision, and any installed option/configuration identifiers.
2. Physical inspection — examine the processor area, memory devices, connectors, headers, PCB traces, and mounting points for corrosion, impact damage, or rework.
3. Memory verification — test the SRAM, Flash, and EEPROM functions where the appropriate PMAC test platform is available.
4. Processor/boot test — install the board on a compatible PMAC-PCI carrier and verify controller initialization.
5. Communication test — verify the applicable RS-232/RS-422 interface and host communication.
6. Motion-system test — where practical, confirm communication with the PMAC environment before placing the controller back into production.
This is particularly relevant for surplus inventory. Current market listings describe 603605-106 both as new-old-stock/surplus and as tested used equipment, so the seller’s actual test scope should be confirmed rather than inferred from the part number.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Trap #1 — Confusing the CPU board with the complete PMAC-PCI
603605-106 is the Flex CPU board. It is not necessarily the complete PMAC-PCI controller. The PMAC-PCI carrier has its own part number, such as 603588-105 in documented configurations.
⚠️ Trap #2 — Assuming every 603605-106 has the same processor configuration
The DSP563xx Flex CPU family exists in different configurations, including documented 40 MHz and 80 MHz variants. Verify the actual configuration on the replacement against the failed board and machine documentation.
PRO TIP: Photograph the original board’s option labels and configuration jumpers before removal. With legacy PMAC equipment, those small details can matter more than the headline part number.
⚠️ Trap #3 — Forgetting that the motion program is part of the replacement risk
A working replacement CPU does not automatically mean the machine will resume production. User programs, setup variables, axis parameters, servo tuning, and machine-specific configuration may need to be restored or verified.
Dynamic FAQ
What is Delta Tau 603605-106?
603605-106 is a DSP563xx Flex CPU board used in Delta Tau PMAC motion-control hardware, particularly PMAC-PCI configurations.
Is 603605-106 the complete PMAC-PCI controller?
No. It is the Flex CPU piggyback board. A complete PMAC-PCI assembly can include the carrier board, CPU board, axis-interface circuitry, and optional hardware.
What CPU does it use?
The documented default configuration uses a 40 MHz DSP563xx processor. Other DSP563xx Flex CPU configurations exist, so the installed board and option configuration should be checked before substitution.
What memory is installed?
The published specifications identify 128K × 24 zero-wait-state Flash-backed SRAM, 512K × 8 Flash, and 2K × 8 EEPROM.
Is 603605-106 still available?
It is available through the industrial surplus and aftermarket market, although supply is limited and condition varies. Current listings include both surplus and tested used examples.
Does New Surplus mean it carries a Delta Tau factory warranty?
No. New Surplus/NOS describes inventory condition; it does not by itself establish an active OEM warranty. For a procurement order, request the seller’s exact condition statement, test report, return policy, and warranty period. Current aftermarket listings demonstrate that warranty periods can vary substantially by supplier.
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