Modicon ZAE-201 Schneider Electric Counter / Positioner Module

The Schneider / Gould / AEG Modicon ZAE-201 Counter / Positioner Module is a dual-function, user-configurable module that can operate as either a high speed counter or to monitor a simple one–axis positioning application. The ZAE 201 has two output relays, the operation of which are specified when the module is parameterized for either counting or positioning functions. Operational power for the module is 24 VDC, and position/count signals may be passed to the module as either 5 V (RS422 compatible) or 24 V inputs. In the counter mode, the unit acts as a high speed counter. Counting is started and stopped by activating and deactivating the count gate input. When counting (count gate activated), two output relays operate based on setup parameters passed to the unit prior to activating the count gate.

In the positioning mode, the unit monitors a single–axis motion. This is accomplished by providing quadrature encoder inputs to the ZAE201. When a motion request is received, the unit will control the state of two output relays based on the current position relative to the commanded position. During motion, the state of two relay outputs are maintained such that speed can be controlled as the target position is approached. The specific operation of these relays is determined by setup parameters passed to the ZAE 201. Direction of motion and absolute speed are determined by other devices controlled through user logic.