UD73 Module: Beyond the Manual

The Control Techniques UD73 large option module is a high speed microprocessor that provide a low cost facility for a system designer to write app specific programs without needing a PLC or other stand-alone controllers. The module is programmed via the RS232 port using the Control Techniques system programming toolkit.

The UD73 module uses a dual port RAM to interface to the drive’s main processor which provides intimate high-speed bi-directional access. It can ready and modify any of the parameters within the drive. This enables customized real-time calculations under a multi-tasking run-time environment.

The optically isolated RS485 port serves as a communication for for the CTIU operator interface units. It is fully configurable, supporting many communication modes. In addition, the module has the Profibus-DP port for additional communication options.

For additional info you can visit the UD73 product page on our website here. We will continue to post info about the Control Technique option modules in the future. If you would like to order a module or get more info you can email sales@mroelectric.com or call 1-800-691-8511.

The table below shows a quick reference for all of the different option modules that can be used with the Unidrive Classic series. We have all of the different modules available and in stock.

UD73 Table
UD73 Table

UNI2403: Beyond the User Manual

The Control Techniques UNI2403 Unidrive is a size 2 Unidrive with 5.5kW, 10HP, a 25A output and 19.8A input. The versatile Unidrive was the first universal AC drive capable of providing V/Hz, open, and closed loop vector, servo, and regen control in every unit. The unidrive combines all five of these AC drive technologies into one for the ease of the customer.

For quick setup of basic applications, the UNI2403‘s most common parameters are arrange in one main menu. There are hundreds of user-configurable functions that are separated into 20 logicial menus which provides quick setup for advanced apps.

For more info you can email sales@mroelectric.com or call 1-800-691-8511. All of our Control Techniques products are available on our website.

UNI2403 Dimensions
UNI2403 Dimensions

Control Techniques Commander SK Security Features

The Control Techniques Commander SK series contains several levels of security.  The level 1 security set has parameters from 1 – 10.  These parameters are the most basic drive configuration registers, containing mostly motor information and start/stop selections.  Level 2 allows you to view and modify parameters 1 – 60.  These include more advanced features, such as, the brake control and fieldbus configuration.  Level 3 access is used to access parameter 1 – 95.  Parameters 61 – 80 in this level can be used to gain access to any register in the drive.  Within level 3 you are also able to gain access to the diagnostic functions of Pr 81 – Pr 95.  The last level is a custom security setting called Loc which can be used to edit any registers in the drive. Check out our website for all of our Commander SK series troubleshooting documentation.

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Unidrive Security Code Basics

For some new User’s of Unidrives, the parameter security system is sometimes found to be a rather mysterious subject.  This article will attempt to unveil those mysteries with some help to explain the Control Techniques Unidrive Security Code Basics.

Security Basics

Without entering the basic security code, 149, you will only be able to view Menu 0 parameters.   The “as shipped” security code for the Unidrive is 149. To enter this code you would maneuver to #00.00 and enter 149.   Once this security code is entered, you will be able to maneuver throughout the Unidrive menu structure freely to view parameters.

After a security code is entered, it will remain in effect until power is removed from the drive or if you wish to re-establish this security, you can set  #XX.00 to 2000.  (where  XX means  “any menu”  )

The User Security Code parameter is #11.30.  The “as shipped” value in this parameter is 149.

For more info you can check our webpage here, or email sales@mroelectric.com or call 1-800-691-8511.

If you find that you cannot change R/W (Read/Write) parameters (including those in Menu 0), someone has most likely assigned their own security code.

User Security Code Assignment

User’s can assign their own 3 digit security code within the range of 1-255 by placing it into #11.30 (writing over the 149) and performing a STORE.1 Note that this does not eliminate or change the “Normal security” code number – 149.

From this point forth, access to parameters will require that code to be placed into #XX.00.  At this point you only have access to Menu O. After this code is entered, you must still enter the normal access code (149) to gain access beyond Menu 0 parameters ( full access).

These security methods do not affect serial communications.  Security affects only access to parameters through the keypad on the front of the Drive.

Forgotten Security Codes

People often forget their security codes.   A User assigned security code is not visible at #11.30 via the serial port (you would still see 149).  To retrieve the forgotten security code,  you must go in through the “back door” .

“The Back Door”

To obtain the forgotten security code, you can DEPRESS and HOLD the MODE key, LEFT ARROW key and either UP or DOWN Arrow key then APPLY POWER to the drive.   The User security code number should appear on the data display at #00.00. Normally, the drive displays the contents of parameter #0.10 upon application of power therefore the User security code may not immediately appear.  You must use maneuver to #00.00 to see the forgotten security code then enter it (hit the mode button twice).

Security Bypass 

During initial start-up of the drive, having to enter the security code after each power-up can become a nuisance and slow down the start-up process.   To bypass or eliminate the need to enter a security code, one can accomplish this by placing a 0 into parameter #11.30 and performing a Store.
If this bypass is done to speed up the start-up process, you should remember to re-assign the 149 default to #11.30 (and Store) before leaving the job site. Otherwise, the drive will have no parameter access security.
Note: Defaulting the drive parameters (using 1244 or 1254) does not reset the User security code.  A previously assigned code by the User will remain in effect even after defaulting parameters.

Additional information     

Parameter 0.49 Security Status
Coding:  RO, U Range:  0 to 1000
This parameter indicates the current status of the drive parameter security system. Each digit indicates a particular aspect of security as follows:-

Units digit:  0 = Standard security has been unlocked    1 = Standard security is still set

Tens digit:                0 = User security has been unlocked or is not active    1 = User security is active preventing RW access

Hundreds digit: 1 = Parameter 11.30 not equal to 149*

Thousands digit: 1 = Parameter 11.30 equal to zero*

* The value of 11.30 is the last value written by the user. Parameter 11.30 always appears as 149 when first accessed by the keypad to hide the real value last written by the user. If 11.30=149 then user security is cleared. If 11.30=0 then user security and security preventing access outside menu 0 is cleared.

Note: – In contrast to all the other parameters in menu 0, this parameter does not exist in any other menu.

Control Techniques Focus 3 Drives Troubleshooting

The Control Techniques Focus 3 drive is a single-phase analog drive for DC motors.  The Focus 3 provides anywhere from ¼ to 5 horsepower and has 2 regenerative and 2 non-regenerative chassis units.  Several measures can be taken to keep your drive functioning its best:

  • Be sure to keep your drive free of dust, dirt, oil, caustic atmosphere and excessive moisture.
  • The control should always be set away from any machines that have a high ambient temperature.
  • Air flow should not be restricted by other equipment.
  • Keep the drive away from high vibration areas that could cause the connections to loosen or chafe the wires.

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Control Techniques Unidrive Option and Solution Modules

Unidrive Option Modules
Unidrive Option Modules

The Control Techniques Unidrive Option and Solution Modules will enhance the functionality of your variable speed drives, allowing them to consistently run at peak performance. The modules will easily integrate with your existing automation system.  A high speed parallel bus is used between the drive and the module which helps remove delays and will improve the drives reaction time.

The options offered by Control Techniques can be categorized by the following:

  • Intelligence and Safety – offering programmable automation and motion option modules
  • Communication – offering Ethernet and fieldbus communications option modules
  • Feedback – offering encoder and resolver option modules
  • Inputs and Outputs – offering additional analog and digital input and output option modules

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Control Techniques Commander SE HF Trip Codes

Commander SE
Commander SE

The Control Techniques Commander SE Microdrive series is an AC open loop vector that provides great flexibility as well as a small footprint.  Although this series is reliable you may encounter one of the HF Trip codes listed below.  These codes are a result of an internal error in the drive.  Most often these trip codes can be resolved by powering down and allowing the drive sit for 5 minutes before powering up again.

If the HF Fault code does not clear then your drive will likely require a repair.

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