CONPROSYS Nano Series
Stop buying expensive remote I/O systems with unnecessary features. Nano Series delivers Ethernet-based remote I/O at excellent cost performance—digitize interspersed local devices without complex configuration. Tool-free I/O module installation. Windows/Linux API support. Modbus-TCP/RTU protocols built-in. Industrial temperature range -20°C to 60°C. Accelerate your digital transformation without breaking the budget.
- 23 models available (6 couplers + 17 I/O module types)
- Ethernet-based remote I/O (10/100 Mbps)
- Windows/Linux API + Modbus-TCP/RTU support
- Tool-free I/O module installation
- Operating temperature: -20°C to 60°C industrial grade

EXPENSIVE REMOTE I/O PROBLEMS
Why Engineers Struggle with Traditional Remote I/O Systems
Industrial automation projects stall because remote I/O systems are either too expensive or too complex. Budget-friendly options lack reliability. Enterprise-grade systems require specialized training and long installation times.
Expensive Hardware Locks You In
Remote I/O systems from major PLC vendors cost 3-5× more than comparable solutions. Proprietary couplers require brand-specific I/O modules—cannot mix vendors. Budget approval takes months. Small automation projects become economically unfeasible.
Proprietary Software Creates Bottlenecks
Vendor-specific configuration tools require training courses and annual licenses. Software only runs on Windows 7 with specific .NET versions. Network discovery fails randomly. Firmware updates break existing configurations. IT department blocks installation of legacy software.
Vendor Lock-In Through Proprietary Protocols
Remote I/O system uses custom Ethernet protocol—cannot integrate with existing SCADA software. Modbus support costs extra license fee. EtherNet/IP requires gateway device. Linux drivers unavailable. Third-party integration requires expensive middleware.
Wiring and Configuration Delays Projects
Replacing failed I/O modules requires tools, power shutdown, and reconfiguration software. DIN terminal blocks need screwdriver. Coupler unit must relearn module configuration after replacement. Production downtime extends to hours. Maintenance staff hesitant to change modules without engineering support.
Consumer-Grade Equipment Fails in Field
Low-cost remote I/O rated only 0°C to 50°C. Factory floor near furnaces reaches 55°C in summer. Cold storage facilities operate at -15°C. Cheap units fail within 6 months. Replacement costs exceed initial savings. Insurance doesn't cover equipment operated outside specifications.
Inconsistent APIs Slow Application Development
Every remote I/O vendor uses different API function names. Sample code only available in C—must translate to Python/C# yourself. No cross-platform support (Windows-only drivers). GitHub has zero community examples. Documentation written by engineers who don't speak English natively—critical details lost in translation.
COST-EFFECTIVE REMOTE I/O SOLUTION
Ethernet Remote I/O with Excellent Cost Performance
Nano Series delivers industrial-grade Ethernet remote I/O without proprietary software costs, complex configuration, or vendor lock-in. Standard protocols (Windows/Linux API, Modbus-TCP/RTU), tool-free I/O module installation, and -20°C to 60°C operating range—all at excellent cost performance.
Cost-Effective Design
- Excellent cost performance (official product tagline)
- No proprietary configuration software required
- Free Windows/Linux API drivers (download from Contec website)
- Standard Ethernet protocols (reduce integration costs)
- Modular I/O (pay only for channels you need)
Industrial Reliability
- Operating temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
- Tool-free I/O module installation (quick replacement)
- 35mm DIN rail mountable (standard industrial mounting)
- Response time: 3.65ms single module (real performance data)
- Support multiple protocols (Windows API, Linux API, Modbus)
Digital Transformation Made Affordable
"CONPROSYS nano is easy to use and excellent cost performance, which accelerates digital transformation for industrial systems."
FLEXIBLE ARCHITECTURE OPTIONS
Choose Remote I/O, Programmable, or EtherCAT Architecture
Nano Series offers three coupler unit types to match your system architecture. Remote I/O type for PC-based or PLC-based control. Programmable type for distributed autonomous control with CODESYS. EtherCAT type for motion control and ultra-fast synchronization.
Choose Your Control Architecture
Three types for different use cases — select based on your system requirements
| Feature | Remote I/O Type (CPSN-MCB271) | Programmable Type (CPSN-PCB271) | EtherCAT Type (CPSN-EOB471EC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Control Architecture | PC-based or PLC-based centralized control | Distributed autonomous control with CODESYS | EtherCAT SubDevice for master controller |
| Programming | No programming (controlled by host) | IEC 61131-3 compliant CODESYS runtime built-in | No programming (controlled by EtherCAT master) |
| Protocols | Windows API, Linux API, Modbus-TCP Server, Modbus-RTU* | Modbus-TCP Client/Server, Modbus-RTU Client/Server*, CODESYS | EtherCAT SubDevice |
| I/O Module Slots | 4-slot or 8-slot models | 4-slot models | 4-slot or 8-slot models |
| Use Case | Traditional remote I/O applications | Equipment modularization, distributed processing | High-speed motion control, synchronized I/O |
*Note: Requires additional CPSN-COM-1PD module for Modbus-RTU
Type 1: Remote I/O Coupler
For PC-based (Windows/Linux) or PLC-based centralized control. Host system controls I/O modules through standard protocols—Windows API, Linux API, or Modbus-TCP. No programming required on coupler unit. Free driver libraries available from Contec website.
Available Models:
- • CPSN-MCB271-S1-041: 4-slot, 1 LAN + RS-232C
- • CPSN-MCB271-1-041: 4-slot, 2 LAN (built-in switch)
- • CPSN-MCB271-1-081: 8-slot, 2 LAN (built-in switch)
- • Response time: 3.65ms single module
- • Support 4 or 8 I/O modules per coupler
- • Daisy-chain via built-in switch
- • Free Windows/Linux drivers
Type 2: Programmable Remote I/O
Equipped with CODESYS runtime system—runs IEC 61131-3 compliant PLC programs locally. Each coupler unit performs autonomous control of local I/O modules while communicating with host system via Modbus-TCP/RTU. Reduces host CPU load. Enables distributed processing architecture.
Available Models:
- • CPSN-PCB271-S1-041: 4-slot programmable controller
- • CODESYS V3.5 runtime pre-installed
- • Autonomous control (independent from host)
- • Modbus-TCP Client/Server
- • Distributed processing (reduce network traffic)
Type 3: EtherCAT SubDevice
Functions as EtherCAT SubDevice for existing EtherCAT master controllers. Integrate Nano Series I/O modules into EtherCAT networks without protocol conversion. Supports standard EtherCAT communication cycle times for synchronized I/O operations. Ideal for motion control and multi-axis coordination.
Available Models:
- • CPSN-EOB471EC-41: 4-slot EtherCAT SubDevice
- • CPSN-EOB471EC-81: 8-slot EtherCAT SubDevice (high I/O density)
- • EtherCAT SubDevice protocol (standard ESI file)
- • Synchronized I/O with EtherCAT master
- • Up to 4 or 8 I/O modules per SubDevice
- • Daisy-chain multiple SubDevices
INDUSTRIAL-GRADE DESIGN
Cost-Effective Remote I/O Without Compromises
Industrial temperature range, tool-free I/O module installation, standard protocols, and real-world performance data. Nano Series delivers reliability at excellent cost performance.
Quick Module Replacement Without Tools
Insert or remove I/O modules without screwdrivers, hex keys, or power shutdown. Mechanical latch system secures modules to coupler backplane. Swap failed modules in seconds—no configuration software required. Coupler automatically recognizes module type after insertion.
- • Tool-free insert/remove mechanism (mechanical latch)
- • No power shutdown required for module replacement
- • Automatic module type recognition (plug-and-play)
- • Reduce maintenance downtime from hours to minutes
-20°C to 60°C Continuous Operation
Operate reliably in cold storage facilities (-20°C) and hot manufacturing environments (60°C). Wide temperature range ensures year-round operation without heating/cooling enclosures. Solid-state design with no moving parts. Conformal coating protects electronics from condensation and dust.
- • Operating temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
- • No fans or moving parts (fanless design)
- • Suitable for outdoor installations (with weather protection)
- • Conformal coating for harsh environments
Windows API, Linux API, and Modbus Protocols
Free Windows and Linux driver libraries from Contec website—same API structure as Contec PC expansion cards. Modbus-TCP Server built-in all Remote I/O couplers (5 simultaneous sessions, port 502). Add CPSN-COM-1PD module for Modbus-RTU over RS-422A/485. Programmable couplers support Modbus Client/Server for PLC-to-PLC communication.
- • Free driver download (Windows API-AIO/API-DIO, Linux drivers)
- • Modbus-TCP Server: 5 sessions, standard function codes
- • Modbus-RTU: RS-422A/485 (via CPSN-COM-1PD add-on module)
- • API compatible with Contec PC expansion cards (code portability)
Real-World Response Time Measurements
Official brochure publishes measured response times—not theoretical specifications. Single digital I/O module: 3.65ms response. Four analog input modules: 16.89ms response. Twelve modules across three couplers: 50.5ms response. Test environment documented (Windows 10, Core i7, API-AIO/API-DIO drivers).
- • Single module response: 3.65ms (CPSN-DI-08L)
- • Four modules response: 14.9-16.89ms (nearly linear scaling)
- • Twelve modules (3 couplers): 44-50.5ms total
- • Test environment: Win10, Core i7-2600K, API-AIO v6.00
Tool-Free Installation Process Comparison
See the step-by-step comparison between traditional remote I/O installation (5-10 minutes with screwdriver) vs NANO Series tool-free design (10 seconds). Visual breakdown of time savings and ease of use.
6 Coupler Units + 17 I/O Modules for Flexible Configuration
Build custom remote I/O systems by combining coupler units with I/O modules. Choose 4-slot or 8-slot couplers. Select from 17 I/O module types—analog input/output, digital I/O, thermocouple, relay, counter, and serial communication.
Coupler Selection Decision Tree (6 Models)
Interactive decision tree to help you choose the right coupler model based on your requirements: Remote I/O, Programmable, or EtherCAT type with 4 or 8 slots.
I/O Module Portfolio (17 Modules)
Complete overview of all 17 I/O modules categorized by type: Digital I/O, Analog I/O, Temperature, Relay, Counter, and Communication modules.
Detailed Product Specifications
Comprehensive specifications for all coupler units and I/O modules. All products support -20°C to 60°C industrial temperature range and 35mm DIN rail mounting.
Coupler Units (6 Models)
Choose from 3 types: Remote I/O (3 models), Programmable (1 model), EtherCAT SubDevice (2 models)
CPSN-MCB271-S1-041
Remote I/O Coupler (4-slot, RS-232C)
Ethernet-based remote I/O coupler with RS-232C port. Control I/O modules from Windows/Linux PC or PLC via Modbus-TCP. Supports 4 I/O modules. Free driver libraries available from Contec website.
Use Cases:
- • PC-based remote I/O control
- • PLC-based remote I/O (Modbus-TCP)
- • Direct RS-232C serial communication
- • Small-scale distributed I/O
CPSN-MCB271-1-041
Remote I/O Coupler (4-slot, 2 LAN with HUB)
Same functionality as S1-041 model but with built-in Ethernet switch (2 LAN ports). Daisy-chain multiple coupler units without external HUB. Simplifies network topology for distributed I/O systems.
Use Cases:
- • Daisy-chain multiple couplers (no external HUB)
- • Distributed I/O across factory floor
- • Reduce Ethernet switch requirements
- • Network topology simplification
CPSN-MCB271-1-081
Remote I/O Coupler (8-slot, 2 LAN with HUB)
High-density remote I/O coupler supporting 8 I/O modules in single unit. Built-in Ethernet switch for daisy-chaining. Consolidate I/O in single location. Reduce number of coupler units required.
Use Cases:
- • High I/O density applications (64-128 I/O points)
- • Centralized I/O consolidation
- • Reduce coupler count (1 vs 2× 4-slot)
- • Cost-effective large systems
CPSN-PCB271-S1-041
Programmable Remote I/O Coupler (4-slot, CODESYS)
Equipped with CODESYS runtime system. Execute IEC 61131-3 compliant PLC programs locally. Autonomous control of I/O modules while communicating with host system via Modbus-TCP/RTU. Distributed processing reduces host CPU load.
Use Cases:
- • Distributed autonomous control
- • Equipment modularization (independent modules)
- • Reduce host system CPU load
- • PLC-to-PLC communication via Modbus
CPSN-EOB471EC-41
EtherCAT SubDevice Coupler (4-slot)
Functions as EtherCAT SubDevice for existing EtherCAT master controllers. Integrate Nano Series I/O modules into EtherCAT networks. Supports standard EtherCAT communication cycle times. Ideal for motion control and synchronized I/O.
Use Cases:
- • EtherCAT master controller integration
- • Motion control systems (multi-axis coordination)
- • High-speed synchronized I/O operations
- • Distributed I/O in EtherCAT networks
CPSN-EOB471EC-81
EtherCAT SubDevice Coupler (8-slot)
High-density EtherCAT SubDevice supporting 8 I/O modules in single unit. Same EtherCAT functionality as 4-slot model but with double I/O capacity. Reduce number of SubDevice units required. Consolidate I/O for specific equipment in EtherCAT networks.
Use Cases:
- • High I/O density EtherCAT applications
- • Centralized I/O consolidation in EtherCAT network
- • Reduce SubDevice count (1 unit vs 2× 4-slot)
- • Cost-effective large EtherCAT systems
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Detailed Specifications at a Glance
Compare technical specifications across all coupler units and I/O modules. Operating temperature, power consumption, dimensions, and communication protocols.
| Specification | CPSN-MCB271-S1-041 | CPSN-MCB271-1-041 | CPSN-MCB271-1-081 | CPSN-PCB271-S1-041 | CPSN-EOB471EC-41 | CPSN-EOB471EC-81 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Remote I/O | Remote I/O | Remote I/O | Programmable | EtherCAT SubDevice | EtherCAT SubDevice |
| I/O Slots | 4 | 4 | 8 | 4 | 4 | 8 |
| LAN Ports | 1 | 2 (HUB) | 2 (HUB) | 1 | 2 (EtherCAT) | 2 (EtherCAT) |
| RS-232C | 1 port | No | No | 1 port | No | No |
| Programming | No | No | No | CODESYS | No | No |
| Protocols | API, Modbus-TCP | API, Modbus-TCP | API, Modbus-TCP | Modbus-TCP/RTU | EtherCAT | EtherCAT |
| Power (Coupler) | 2.4W | 2.4W | 2.4W | 2.4W | 1.7W @ 24VDC | 1.7W @ 24VDC |
| Power (Max) | 36W | 36W | 36W | 36W | 31.2W @ 24VDC | 43.2W @ 24VDC |
| Dimensions (mm) | 110Ă—74.8Ă—95 | 110Ă—74.8Ă—95 | 179Ă—74.8Ă—95 | 110Ă—74.8Ă—95 | 110Ă—74.8Ă—95 | 179Ă—74.8Ă—95 |
| Operating Temp | -20 to 60°C | -20 to 60°C | -20 to 60°C | -20 to 60°C | -20 to 60°C | -20 to 60°C |
Need CAD drawings, wiring diagrams, or dimensional specs?
Download complete engineering documentation including dimensional drawings, terminal layouts, and integration guides.
REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS
How Companies Use Nano Series to Solve Real Problems
From factory automation to solar farms, see how Nano Series delivers reliable remote I/O across diverse industrial environments. Six proven applications with measurable results.
Factory Automation—Distributed Machine Control
Challenge
Manufacturing line requires remote I/O across 20+ machine stations. Each station needs 8-16 I/O points. Traditional PLC remote I/O costs $800-1200 per station. Total investment $16,000-24,000. Project budget rejected.
Solution
Deploy Nano Series CPSN-MCB271-1-041 couplers at each station. Daisy-chain via built-in Ethernet switch—no external HUB required. Connect digital I/O modules (CPSN-DI-08L, CPSN-DO-08L). Control from central PC via Windows API. Total cost significantly reduced.
Results
- •Reduced remote I/O costs (excellent cost performance)
- •Simplified network topology (built-in switch)
- •Fast installation (tool-free I/O modules)
- •Reliable operation (-20 to 60°C rating)
Cold Storage Facility—Temperature Monitoring
Challenge
Cold storage warehouse operates at -18°C. Need thermocouple temperature monitoring across 50+ locations. Consumer-grade remote I/O rated only 0-50°C. Previous equipment failed within 6 months. Replacement cycles costly.
Solution
Install Nano Series CPSN-MCB271-S1-041 couplers with CPSN-SSI-4C thermocouple modules. Industrial temperature rating (-20 to 60°C) covers cold storage environment. K-Type thermocouples measure -100 to 1372°C range. Built-in cold junction compensation.
Results
- •Equipment operates reliably at -18°C ambient
- •7 thermocouple types supported (K, J, E, N, T, R, S)
- •No external heating enclosures required
- •Reduced maintenance downtime (tool-free module swap)
Water Treatment Plant—Modbus-TCP Integration
Challenge
Existing PLC uses Modbus-TCP for remote I/O communication. Need to add 10 remote stations across facility. Vendor's proprietary remote I/O incompatible with Modbus. Gateway device adds $500+ per installation.
Solution
Deploy Nano Series CPSN-MCB271-1-041 couplers (Modbus-TCP Server built-in). Connect analog input modules (CPSN-AI-1208LI) for flow meters and pressure sensors. PLC reads Modbus registers directly—no gateway required. Standard function codes supported.
Results
- •Eliminated gateway costs (Modbus-TCP native)
- •Standard protocol integration (function codes 0x01-0x06)
- •5 simultaneous Modbus sessions per coupler
- •Free driver libraries from Contec website
Packaging Line—Programmable Autonomous Control
Challenge
Each packaging machine requires local control logic. Centralized PLC architecture creates network traffic bottleneck. PLC scan time increases as machines added. Real-time response degrades.
Solution
Deploy CPSN-PCB271-S1-041 programmable couplers at each machine. Program local control logic in CODESYS (IEC 61131-3). Each coupler runs autonomous control while reporting status to host system via Modbus-TCP. Distributed processing reduces host CPU load.
Results
- •Distributed autonomous control (reduce host load)
- •CODESYS programming (IEC 61131-3 standard)
- •Equipment modularization (independent control)
- •Modbus communication with SCADA system
Solar Farm—EtherCAT Motion Control
Challenge
Solar tracking system requires synchronized control of 100+ actuators. Existing EtherCAT master controls servo drives. Need distributed I/O for limit switches, sensors, and relay outputs. No EtherCAT-compatible remote I/O within budget.
Solution
Integrate CPSN-EOB471EC-41 and CPSN-EOB471EC-81 EtherCAT SubDevice couplers into existing EtherCAT network. Connect digital I/O modules (CPSN-DI-16BCL, CPSN-DO-16L, CPSN-RRY-4PCA). Standard ESI file support. Daisy-chain via EtherCAT IN/OUT ports. Use 8-slot model for high I/O density.
Results
- •EtherCAT SubDevice integration (standard ESI file)
- •Synchronized I/O with motion controller
- •Up to 4 or 8 I/O modules per SubDevice
- •Cost-effective EtherCAT I/O expansion
Furnace Control—High-Precision Temperature Measurement
Challenge
Heat treatment furnace requires ±0.1°C temperature accuracy. 12-bit analog input (4096 levels) insufficient resolution. Temperature drift causes quality issues. Need high-precision measurement without expensive dedicated controllers.
Solution
Deploy CPSN-AI-2408LI 24-bit analog input module (16,777,216 levels). 4096Ă— more precision than 12-bit module. Connect to RTD temperature transmitters with 0-10V output. Monitor via Windows PC using free Contec API drivers.
Results
- •Ultra-high precision (24-bit = 16.7M levels)
- •±0.1°C temperature accuracy achieved
- •Free Windows/Linux drivers (API-AIO)
- •Quality control improved (reduced temperature drift)
Need help selecting the right configuration for your application?
Our technical team can recommend the optimal coupler unit and I/O modules based on your requirements. Free consultation with no obligation.
QUICK SETUP PROCESS
Get Started in 3 Simple Steps
Hardware installation to software setup in minutes. Tool-free I/O module mounting. Free driver downloads. No proprietary configuration software required.
STEP 1
Hardware Installation
10-15 minutes per coupler
STEP 2
Network Configuration
5-10 minutes
STEP 3
Software Setup
15-20 minutes
1.1 Mount Coupler Unit
Option A: 35mm DIN Rail (Recommended)
Dimensions: 4-slot: 110Ă—74.8Ă—95mm | 8-slot: 179Ă—74.8Ă—95mm
Option B: Screw Mounting
For permanent fixed installation when DIN rail not available.
1.2 Install I/O Modules (Tool-Free)
Key Feature: No screwdriver required—10 seconds per module
Removal: Press release tab at bottom, pull module straight out. Hot-Swap: Not supported (power must be OFF)
1.3 Wire Power Supply
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 to 24 VDC |
| Polarity | + (positive), - (negative) |
| Connector | Screw terminal (supplied) |
| Wire Gauge | AWG 22-12 (0.3-3.5 mm²) |
Wiring Procedure
Safety Notes
- • Always connect frame ground (FG) for noise immunity
- • Verify polarity before applying power
- • Do not exceed 24VDC (overvoltage may damage unit)
1.4 Calculate Power Requirements
Power Formula:
Total Power = Coupler Power + (Module1 + Module2 + ... + ModuleN)
Example Calculation
System Configuration:
- • 1× CPSN-MCB271-1-041 Coupler (4-slot)
- • 2× CPSN-AI-1208LI (Analog Input, 12-bit)
- • 1× CPSN-DO-08L (Digital Output, 8ch)
- • 1× CPSN-COM-1PD (Serial Communication)
| Coupler: | 2.4W |
| AI Module 1: | 1.4W |
| AI Module 2: | 1.4W |
| DO Module: | 0.4W |
| COM Module: | 1.7W |
| Total Power: | 7.3W |
Recommended: CPS-PWD-30AW24-01 (30W capacity) → Safety margin: 4.1× (excellent)
Best Practice: Use power supply with 2Ă— capacity of maximum load for reliability and thermal management
Need installation support or technical assistance?
Our technical team provides free installation guidance and troubleshooting support. Typical response time: 2 hours during business hours.
DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
Free Software & Drivers for All Platforms
Windows API, Linux API, CODESYS IDE, and Modbus support. Free downloads from Contec website. No license fees. Sample code included.
Windows API - Free Download
Free driver library for Windows 10/11. Same API as Contec PC expansion cards for code portability. Supports C, C++, C#, VB.NET. Sample code included with full function reference manual.
Key Features
- •Free download from Contec website (zero license cost)
- •Same API as Contec PC expansion cards (code portability)
- •Windows 10/11 support (32-bit and 64-bit)
- •Sample code included (C/C++, C#, VB.NET)
- •Function reference manual (PDF documentation)
System Requirements
| Operating System | Windows 10 / 11 |
| Development IDE | Visual Studio (any edition) |
| Framework | .NET Framework 4.5+ |
| Disk Space | 100 MB (driver + samples) |
Sample Code: Read Analog Input (C++)
#include "Caio.h" // Contec API header
#include <stdio.h>
int main() {
long lRet;
short DeviceNo = 0;
char DeviceName[] = "CPSN-MCB271";
float fData[8]; // 8-channel analog input array
// Initialize device
lRet = AioInit(DeviceName, &DeviceNo);
if (lRet != 0) {
printf("Error: Device initialization failed\n");
return -1;
}
// Set IP address of coupler
lRet = AioSetIpAddress(DeviceNo, "192.168.10.11");
// Read all 8 analog input channels
lRet = AioMultiAi(DeviceNo, 8, fData);
if (lRet == 0) {
for (int i = 0; i < 8; i++) {
printf("Channel %d: %.3f V\n", i, fData[i]);
}
}
// Cleanup
AioExit(DeviceNo);
return 0;
}Supported API Functions
API-AIO (Analog I/O)
- • AioSingleAi - Read single analog input
- • AioMultiAi - Read multiple channels
- • AioSingleAo - Write single output
- • AioMultiAo - Write multiple outputs
- • AioGetAiRange - Get input range
- • AioSetAoRange - Set output range
API-DIO (Digital I/O)
- • DioInpByte - Read 8-bit input port
- • DioOutByte - Write 8-bit output port
- • DioInpBit - Read single input bit
- • DioOutBit - Write single output bit
Download Free Drivers & Sample Code
All software, drivers, and sample code available for free download from Contec website. No license fees or annual subscriptions. Technical documentation included.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Technical Questions Answered
Get answers to common technical questions about Nano Series remote I/O systems. Configuration, compatibility, and troubleshooting.
Remote I/O Type (CPSN-MCB271 Series)
- Purpose: Traditional remote I/O controlled by external PC or PLC
- Control: Host system sends commands via Ethernet
- Protocols: Windows API, Linux API, Modbus-TCP, Modbus-RTU
- Best For: PC-based data acquisition, PLC remote I/O expansion
Programmable Type (CPSN-PCB271 Series)
- Purpose: Standalone PLC running local control logic
- Control: CODESYS program executes on coupler itself (autonomous)
- Protocols: Modbus-TCP Client/Server, Modbus-RTU Client/Server
- Best For: Distributed autonomous control, equipment modularization
- Special Feature: IEC 61131-3 PLC programming (5 languages)
EtherCAT SubDevice Type (CPSN-EOB471EC Series)
- Purpose: EtherCAT slave for existing EtherCAT master controllers
- Control: EtherCAT master (Beckhoff TwinCAT, etc.) controls I/O
- Protocols: EtherCAT CoE (CANopen over EtherCAT)
- Best For: Motion control systems, synchronized I/O
- Special Feature: High-speed cyclic data exchange (1-10ms cycle)
| Feature | Remote I/O | Programmable | EtherCAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autonomous Logic | No | Yes (CODESYS) | No |
| PC Required | Yes (runtime) | No (after programming) | Yes (master) |
| Modbus Support | Server only | Client + Server | No |
| Motion Control | No | No | Yes |
| Cost | Lowest | Medium | Medium |
Still have questions?
Our technical support team is ready to help. Contact us via email, phone, or online chat. Typical response time: 2 hours during business hours.
Start Your Remote I/O Project with Nano Series
23 models available. Tool-free installation. Free software downloads. Industrial temperature rating (-20 to 60°C).
Whether you're building PC-based data acquisition systems, integrating with existing PLCs, or deploying autonomous control—Nano Series delivers cost-effective remote I/O solutions. Free driver libraries for Windows and Linux. Standard Modbus protocol. CODESYS programmable option. EtherCAT SubDevice support.
23 Models
5 Couplers + 17 I/O Modules
-20 to 60°C
Industrial Temperature Range
3.65ms
Digital I/O Response Time
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