Description
Core Product Summary
The Emerson FX-316 (Part Number 960132-01) is a single-axis positioning servo drive developed under the Emerson Motion Control / Control Techniques family. The unit combines motor drive power electronics with a built-in motion indexer, providing precision positioning and velocity control for industrial automation equipment. It is designed to drive compatible AC servo motors, such as the Emerson DM-316C, in standalone or host-controlled architecture.
The drive operates on a 240 VAC three-phase input supply with a rated continuous output current of 4.0 Amps. It features non-volatile memory capable of storing up to 32 pre-programmed motion profiles or indexes, which can be configured via Emerson PCX user interface software. System integration and external machine interlocks are handled through eight optically isolated digital input lines and four optically isolated digital output lines. Multi-axis networking is supported over serial communication, allowing up to 31 FX series drives to be multi-dropped on a single COM port using DIP-switch node addressing.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification / Value |
| Product Type | Single-Axis Positioning Servo Drive |
| Manufacturer / Family | Emerson Motion Control / Control Techniques (FX Series) |
| Part / Model Number | FX-316 (P/N 960132-01) |
| Input AC Voltage | 240 VAC, 3-Phase |
| Continuous Output Current | 4.0 A |
| Stored Motion Profiles | Up to 32 programmable indexes |
| Configuration Software | Emerson PCX User Interface Software |
| Digital Inputs | 8 optically isolated input lines (2 screw terminals per line) |
| Digital Outputs | 4 optically isolated output lines (2 screw terminals per line) |
| Serial Communication | Multi-drop serial RS-232 / RS-485 interface |
| Multi-Drop Network Capacity | Up to 31 drives per COM port |
| Axis Identifier Addressing | Front-panel DIP switch configuration |
| Target Motor Series | Emerson DM-316C AC Servo Motor |
| Unit Weight | Approximately 7.14 lbs to 9 lbs |
Detailed Product Overview
The Emerson FX-316 is a compact, panel-mounted servo drive engineered for precise motion control applications. By integrating indexer logic directly into the amplifier chassis, the FX-316 reduces the need for an external motion controller or PLC position module in single-axis and low-axis-count machines. It is widely used in machinery executing discrete positional sequences, such as linear actuators, index tables, rotary feeds, and part transfer mechanisms.
Motion routines are structured around internal index positions, homing sequences, and manual jog routines. Each of the 32 pre-programmed indexes acts as an independent motion sequence defining distance, target velocity, acceleration, and deceleration profiles. Motion execution can be triggered via discrete hardware inputs or issued over serial commands using Emerson’s serial command set. All parameters, index definitions, and I/O mapping configuration rules are retained in the drive’s internal non-volatile memory to maintain sequence setup during power cycles.
Parameterization and commissioning are managed through the PCX software application. The software allows engineers to define mechanical system configuration parameters—including gear reducer ratios, lead screw pitch, belt-and-pulley ratios, user distance units (such as inches, feet, or degrees), and mechanical travel or velocity limits.
FX-316
FX-316
System Compatibility & Integration Requirements
| Integration Item | Requirement / Compatibility Detail | Practical Note |
| Configuration Software | Emerson PCX Software | Required for programming index moves, I/O functions, and drive setup parameters. |
| Compatible Motor | Emerson DM-316C AC Servo Motor | Matched power stage design for 240V, 4.0A drive output rating. |
| Serial Command Protocol | FX Drives Serial Commands (P/N 400255-00) | Used for serial host controller integration and multi-axis command transmission. |
| Multi-Drop Network | Up to 31 drives max on a single serial COM port | Each physical drive requires a unique axis identifier set via DIP switches. |
| Discrete Machine I/O | 8 Optically Isolated Inputs / 4 Optically Isolated Outputs | Screw-terminal interface for sensors, PLC trigger outputs, and status signaling. |
Dimensions, Mounting & Connection Notes
- Power Wiring: Connect 240 VAC 3-phase AC input power to the primary power terminal strip.
- Control I/O Terminals: Dedicated screw terminals are provided for each of the 8 isolated input lines and 4 isolated output lines. Each isolated line utilizes two dedicated screw terminals.
- Network Addressing: Set the unique multi-drop axis identifier on each drive using the front-panel DIP switches prior to powering on multi-axis serial networks.
- Serial Connection: Multi-drop serial cables interface to host ports or PCs running PCX software.
- Mechanical Mounting: Standard industrial vertical panel-mount orientation within a metal enclosure to facilitate convection air cooling.
FAQ
What is the Emerson FX-316?
The Emerson FX-316 (Part Number 960132-01) is a single-axis positioning servo drive with integrated motion control and indexer functionality.
What power supply voltage does the FX-316 require?
The drive operates on a 240 VAC, 3-phase power supply and supplies up to 4.0 Amps continuous current to the motor.
How many motion profiles can be stored in the drive?
The FX-316 can store up to 32 unique, pre-programmed motion profiles or indexes within its non-volatile memory.
What software is used to program and set up the FX-316?
The FX-316 is configured and programmed using Emerson PCX user interface software.
How many external digital I/O channels are available on the drive?
The unit includes 8 optically isolated digital inputs and 4 optically isolated digital outputs, with two screw terminals provided per line.
Can multiple Emerson FX-316 drives be connected on one serial port?
Yes, up to 31 drives can be connected on a multi-drop serial cable to a single COM port, using front-panel DIP switches to set individual axis identification codes.
Which motor model is designed for use with the FX-316?
The Emerson FX-316 is rated for use with AC servo motors such as the Emerson DM-316C.
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