WOODHEAD APP-ETH-PCU-PCU2000ETH – Industrial Ethernet-to-Fieldbus Communication Unit for PLC/SCADA Integration

The WOODHEAD APP-ETH-PCU-PCU2000ETH is part of the classic Applicom series designed to bridge Ethernet-based control systems with legacy or mixed fieldbus networks. From my experience with the PCU2000ETH family, it’s typically used as a standalone communication gateway to connect PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA to networks such as PROFIBUS DP, DeviceNet, Modbus (TCP/RTU), or CANopen—depending on the internal configuration and protocol cards. You might notice that this approach lets you modernize communications without changing the existing machine controls.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Delivery: In-stock items typically ship in 1 week; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Ethernet gateway for multi-protocol plants: Integrates PLC/SCADA over TCP/IP with common fieldbuses (e.g., PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, Modbus) depending on installed options.
• Stand-alone architecture: Offloads communications from the PLC and PC, improving determinism and reducing CPU load.
• Flexible configuration: Typically supports protocol role selection (master/slave) and mapping tools for data exchange to tags/registers.
• Diagnostics and event logging: Practical for maintenance—fault codes help technicians pinpoint cabling or bus errors quickly.
• Industrial enclosure: Designed for control cabinets with standard 24 VDC power and DIN-rail mounting in most cases.
• No local discrete/analog I/O: Communications-focused device, which helps keep the footprint compact and the setup straightforward.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

This unit is a good fit for plants that need to link modern Ethernet PLCs or SCADA with existing fieldbus segments without ripping out legacy hardware. Typical scenarios:

• Bridging SCADA over Ethernet to PROFIBUS DP drives and remote I/O racks
• Interfacing EtherNet/IP/Modbus TCP PLCs to DeviceNet scanners or nodes
• Brownfield upgrades where protocol conversion extends the lifecycle of older machines
• Process lines requiring deterministic data exchange between mixed-vendor control islands

Advantages & Value for Procurement

• Stability and longevity: The Applicom architecture is known for reliable runtime in 24/7 environments.
• Compatibility: Multi-protocol options mean fewer vendor lock-ins and easier line expansions.
• Cost containment: Retain existing field devices while moving supervisory layers to Ethernet—saves on full system replacement.
• Service-friendly: Clear diagnostics and event reporting shorten troubleshooting, which translates to lower downtime.
• Support options: We typically provide configuration guidance and replacement recommendations for legacy nodes.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet and mounting: Install on DIN rail in a ventilated enclosure; leave space for airflow and cable bend radius.
• Power & wiring: 24 VDC supply with proper grounding; use shielded twisted-pair for fieldbus; keep Ethernet and power separate from high-noise conductors.
• Network setup: Assign static IP addressing for control networks; document MAC/IP and protocol roles (master/slave) for maintenance.
• Safety: De-energize before wiring; verify fieldbus polarity and termination to avoid bus faults.
• Routine maintenance: Periodically back up configuration; check bus terminators; clean dust; update firmware where available and validated.

Quality & Certifications

• Certifications: Typically CE; many units in this family are cULus recognized. RoHS status may depend on manufacturing date.
• Warranty: 12 months (365 days) from delivery.

Supporting Components & Accessories

• 24 VDC DIN-rail power supply (sized for device power plus bus accessories)
• Shielded Ethernet patch cables (industrial-grade Cat5e/Cat6)
• Protocol-specific fieldbus cables and terminators (e.g., PROFIBUS DP, DeviceNet)
• Serial service cable (for local configuration, where applicable)

One thing I appreciate is how the PCU2000ETH series simplifies mixed-protocol plants: you keep the field side stable and still get Ethernet visibility on the top layer. If you can share your target PLC and the field network in place, we can confirm the exact PCU2000ETH configuration and firmware that fits your line—saves time during commissioning.