Facts Engineering F4-16DA-1 DirectLOGIC 405 16-Channel Analog Output Module

Description

Key Technical Specifications

Product Introduction & Supply Chain Strategy

The Facts Engineering F4-16DA-1 is a 16-channel analog output module designed for the DirectLOGIC 405 PLC architecture, providing precise 4-20 mA current signals to control proportional valves, variable frequency drives, and panel meters. Operating on 12-bit resolution, it aggregates control signals into a single rack slot to streamline panel space and simplify field distribution.

Procuring this module as New Surplus ensures operational integrity for legacy DL405 installations where plant downtime must be avoided. Refurbished modules frequently suffer from dried electrolytic capacitors and thermal stresses that cause signal drift, leading to unpredicted recalibration errors or sudden output failures. Securing unused, verified surplus units establishes a low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by providing OEM-level performance without paying last-time-buy premiums or risking catastrophic downtime.

Installation & Configuration Guide

1.Stage 1: Pre-Installation (Prep & Safety):Prerequisite.

Perform lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) on the primary PLC rack power supply and field loop 24 VDC supplies. Attach a grounded ESD wrist strap to your wrist and connect the clip to an unpainted metal frame on the enclosure. Photograph the wiring arrangement on the terminal block, noting channel assignments and loop power polarity, before disconnecting any leads.

2.Stage 2: Module Extraction:Mechanical Removal.

Loosen the top and bottom retaining screws on the existing module using a flathead screwdriver. Gently pull the top and bottom extraction tabs outward to unseat the card edge from the backplane connector. Slide the module straight out along the card guides to prevent bending adjacent backplane pins.

3.Stage 3: Physical Installation:Clone & Seat.

Inspect the backplane pins inside the empty DL405 slot for debris or bending. Verify the terminal block wiring matches your original schematic. Align the F4-16DA-1 board with the slot guides and push firmly until the rear connector seats flush into the backplane. Tighten the top and bottom retaining screws to 0.5 Nm torque.

4.Stage 4: Power-On & Testing:Validation.

Measure the field supply voltage at the terminal block to verify a steady 24 VDC input. Re-apply power to the PLC rack. Observe the CPU and module status indicators; verify that no system diagnostics error (ERR) lights illuminate. Force a mid-scale test value (2048 counts / 12 mA) in the PLC register map and measure the output with a calibrated multimeter to confirm signal accuracy.

F4-16DA-1

F4-16DA-1

Firmware/Software Versions & Upgrade Notes

• System Compatibility: Compatible with all DirectLOGIC D4-430, D4-440, and D4-450 CPU units, as well as DL405 remote base controllers.
• Firmware Baseline: Requires CPU firmware V1.40 or higher for full 16-channel pointer addressing.
• Compatibility Caveat: When substituting for legacy 4-channel or 8-channel analog modules (such as the F4-04DA-1), update the V-memory mapping in DirectSOFT. The F4-16DA-1 utilizes multiple consecutive memory words for channel data transmission; failing to reserve these memory addresses will result in data overwrites in adjacent registers.
• Revision Risk: Hardware swaps within the DL405 line do not require active module firmware flashing. Avoid field firmware manipulation on analog hardware; parameter configuration should be executed strictly through pointer assignments in the PLC ladder logic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does “New Surplus” mean for the F4-16DA-1, and why is it preferred over refurbished options?

New Surplus means the F4-16DA-1 module is original OEM stock that has never been installed, energized, or integrated into an active industrial process. Unlike refurbished modules, which are often pulled from decommissioned plants and subjected to thermal stress or component repairs, New Surplus units feature factory-grade component lifespans, unblemished backplane contacts, and uncompromised internal isolation barriers.

Does the F4-16DA-1 require external power to drive the 4–20 mA loops?

Yes. The module relies on an external 24 VDC supply (±10%) to power the current loop drive circuitry. While the module draws 150 mA from the PLC 5 VDC backplane to run its internal logic, the 4–20 mA current loops require a dedicated 24 VDC power connection at the removable terminal block.

Can I hot-swap this module while the DirectLOGIC 405 rack is energized?

No. DirectLOGIC 405 racks do not support hot-swapping. Removing or inserting the F4-16DA-1 while the backplane is powered can cause electrical arcing across the edge connectors, potentially corrupting CPU RAM, damaging the backplane, or destroying the analog multiplexer on the card. Always shut down rack power before swapping modules.

Are there hardware DIP switches or jumpers to configure on the F4-16DA-1?

No hardware jumper configuration is required. Channel addressing and data routing are handled via the PLC CPU setup using pointer registers in DirectSOFT. You do not need to set physical DIP switches on the card prior to installation.

How does ladder logic retain programming parameters when replacing this module?

The F4-16DA-1 is a slave I/O card; it holds no user ladder logic program in non-volatile memory. Output values and configuration multiplexing are driven continuously by the CPU’s V-memory registers. Replacing a faulty card with a new F4-16DA-1 requires zero ladder code downloads—simply insert the module and power up the rack.

What warranty and verification documents accompany this unit?

Every New Surplus F4-16DA-1 module passes a multi-point Quality Assurance inspection—including visual pin inspection, power-up testing, and ESD-safe repacking. Units come backed by a full 1-year replacement warranty and include a comprehensive QC verification sheet.