Schneider Electric 140CPU67160 – Modicon Quantum CPU for high-end process control and plant-wide networking

The Schneider Electric Modicon Quantum 140CPU67160 is a performance-grade PLC processor designed for medium-to-large control systems where uptime, fast scan execution, and flexible networking matter. From my experience, it’s the CPU you pick when you need solid Ethernet communications, clean integration with existing Quantum I/O, and a stable platform for critical process applications. You might notice that it fits seamlessly into the classic Quantum rack, so migrations and brownfield expansions are typically straightforward.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days from shipment
• Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express shipping: FedEx, UPS, DHL
• Packaging & handling: ESD-safe packing, functional verification before dispatch

Key Features

• High-performance CPU core – Built for demanding logic and fast scan cycles in process and hybrid manufacturing lines.
• Integrated Ethernet – Typically includes 10/100Base‑T for programming, HMI/SCADA connectivity, and plant network integration.
• Serial Modbus support – Commonly used for legacy drives, meters, and third-party serial devices in brownfield sites.
• Unity Pro / EcoStruxure Control Expert – Programmed with Schneider’s modern toolchain, making project maintenance and upgrades more manageable.
• Quantum ecosystem compatibility – Works with 140-series I/O, power supplies, and backplanes to protect prior investments.
• Redundancy-ready architecture – Supports Quantum hot-standby topologies when paired with the appropriate redundancy modules and rack configuration.
• Long lifecycle support – Stable platform with a wide installed base; spare parts and migration paths are typically well-documented.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

The 140CPU67160 is commonly used in process plants where deterministic control and network connectivity are both important:

• Oil & gas unit operations (compressor stations, pipeline control, tank farms)
• Water & wastewater treatment (filtration, chemical dosing, clarifiers)
• Power generation and utilities (balance-of-plant, fuel handling)
• Food & beverage and life sciences (batch process, CIP/SIP, utilities)
• Mining, cement, and heavy industry (material handling, mills, kiln auxiliaries)

A maintenance lead at a municipal WTP told me they appreciate how this CPU “just keeps scanning” during network load spikes, and that upgrading projects in Unity Pro typically take hours, not days.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – Quantum hardware has a strong track record in 24/7 plants; the 140CPU67160 is frequently chosen for critical areas.
• Compatibility – Keeps existing 140‑series I/O and wiring intact, reducing project risk and downtime.
• Network flexibility – Ethernet for SCADA/HMI and serial Modbus for legacy instruments helps bridge old and new assets cost‑effectively.
• Redundancy options – Supports hot‑standby topologies when needed, improving availability without re‑architecting the entire system.
• Service & lifecycle – Global support with documented migration paths; in many cases, firmware updates can extend useful life.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & ventilation – Install in an industrial enclosure with adequate airflow; keep ambient within 0–60 °C and avoid condensation.
• Grounding & wiring – Use proper panel grounding; shielded twisted pair for serial runs; quality Cat5e/Cat6 for Ethernet; segregate high‑voltage and signal wiring.
• Rack & PSU sizing – Verify total 5 VDC load of all modules; choose a Quantum PSU with sufficient headroom to handle inrush and future expansion.
• Hot‑swap practices – The Quantum platform supports module replacement under power in many cases; follow Schneider’s HSBY/maintenance procedures to avoid process interruptions.
• Firmware & backups – Maintain project archives in Control Expert; schedule firmware checks during planned outages to keep features and security current.
• Battery/retentive data – If the CPU uses a memory‑backup battery, keep spares on hand and replace on the recommended interval to preserve retentive data.

Recommended Supporting Components

• 140XBP01000 / 140XBP01600 Backplanes – 10‑slot or 16‑slot Quantum racks for flexible I/O capacity and system layout.
• 140CPS11100 / 140CPS11420 Power Supplies – Reliable 5 VDC rack PSUs; choose based on module count and load budget.
• 140NOE77111 Ethernet Module – Adds advanced Ethernet services and bandwidth for segmented networks and large SCADA systems.
• 140CRP93100 / 140CRA93100 Remote I/O – Head/adapter modules for Quantum remote I/O architectures when the process demands distributed panels.
• 140‑series Discrete/Analog I/O – Wide selection of DI/DO/AI/AO modules to match field signals without extra signal conditioning in most cases.

Quality & Certifications

• CE marked; typically UL and CSA listed for industrial control equipment
• RoHS compliance appears to be observed for standard Quantum modules
• Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• Standard warranty: 365 days