AMCI RBE2-8 User manual

MICRO CONTROLS INC.
ADVANCED
U
s
e
r
M
a
n
u
a
l
RBE2-8
Networked Relay Board
with Integral 2-Port Ethernet Switch
Device Level Ring functionality for EtherNet/IP
Media Redundancy Protocol for PROFINET
Manual #: 940-0R011
E2 Technology

ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Important User Information
The products and application data described in this manual are useful in a wide variety of different applica-
tions. Therefore, the user and others responsible for applying these products described herein are responsible
for determining the acceptability for each application. While efforts have been made to provide accurate infor-
mation within this manual, AMCI assumes no responsibility for the application or the completeness of the
information contained herein.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS, INC. BE RESPONSIBLE OR
LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAM-
AGES OR LOSSES, ARISING FROM THE USE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS
MANUAL, OR THE USE OF ANY PRODUCTS OR SERVICES REFERENCED HEREIN.
No patent liability is assumed by AMCI, with respect to use of information, circuits, equipment, or software
described in this manual.
The information contained within this manual is subject to change without notice.
This manual is copyright 2022 by Advanced Micro Controls Inc. You may reproduce this manual, in whole or
in part, for your personal use, provided that this copyright notice is included. You may distribute copies of this
complete manual in electronic format provided that they are unaltered from the version posted by Advanced
Micro Controls Inc. on our official website: www.amci.com. You may incorporate portions of this documents
in other literature for your own personal use provided that you include the notice “Portions of this document
copyright 2022 by Advanced Micro Controls Inc.” You may not alter the contents of this document or charge a
fee for reproducing or distributing it.
Standard Warranty
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS, INC. warrants that all equipment manufactured by it will be free from
defects, under normal use, in materials and workmanship for a period of [18] months. Within this warranty
period, AMCI shall, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any equipment covered by this warranty
which is returned, shipping charges prepaid, within eighteen months from date of invoice, and which upon
examination proves to be defective in material or workmanship and not caused by accident, misuse, neglect,
alteration, improper installation or improper testing.
The provisions of the "STANDARD WARRANTY" are the sole obligations of AMCI and excludes all other
warranties expressed or implied. In no event shall AMCI be liable for incidental or consequential damages or
for delay in performance of this warranty.
Returns Policy
All equipment being returned to AMCI for repair or replacement, regardless of warranty status, must have a
Return Merchandise Authorization number issued by AMCI. Call [phone] with the model number and
serial number (if applicable) along with a description of the problem during regular business hours, Monday
through Friday, 8AM - 5PM Eastern. An "RMA" number will be issued. Equipment must be shipped to AMCI
with transportation charges prepaid. Title and risk of loss or damage remains with the customer until shipment
is received by AMCI.
24 Hour Technical Support Number
24 Hour technical support is available on this product. If you have internet access, start at www.amci.com.
Product documentation and FAQ’s are available on the site that answer most common questions.
If you require additional technical support, call [phone]. Your call will be answered by the factory dur-
ing regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8AM - 5PM Eastern. During non-business hours an auto-
mated system will ask you to enter the telephone number you can be reached at. Please remember to include
your area code. The system will page an engineer on call. Please have your product model number and a
description of the problem ready before you call.
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
At the end of life, this equipment should be collected separately from any unsorted municipal waste.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Important User Information ..................... 2
Standard Warranty ................................... 2
Returns Policy .......................................... 2
24 Hour Technical Support Number ........ 2
WEEE Statement ..................................... 2
About this Manual
Audience .................................................. 5
Trademark Notices ................................... 5
Revision Record ....................................... 5
Revision History ............................ 5
Navigating this Manual ............................ 5
Manual Conventions ................................ 5
Where To Go From Here ......................... 6
Reference: RBE2-8 Introduction
The RBE2-8 ............................................. 7
Unit Description ....................................... 8
Status LEDs ............................................. 9
Output Mode LED ......................... 9
Channel Status LEDs ..................... 9
Link Activity LEDs ....................... 9
Module Status (MS) LED .............. 10
Network Status (NS) LED ............. 10
Compatible Relays ................................... 11
AC Relay Specifications................. 11
DC Relay Specifications ................ 11
Relay Dimensions .......................... 12
Relay Environmental Curves ......... 12
Specifications ........................................... 13
Notes ........................................................ 14
Reference: Data Formats
Data Addressing ....................................... 15
Output Data Format ................................. 15
Input Data Format .................................... 16
Word 1 Input Bits .......................... 16
Word 0 Input Bits .......................... 16
Reference: Configuring Network 
Interfaces
Firewall Settings ...................................... 17
Disable All Unused Network Interfaces .. 17
Configure Your Network Interface .......... 17
Test Your Network Interface ................... 18
Task: Installing the RBE2-8
Safe Handling Guidelines ........................ 19
Prevent Electrostatic Damage ....... 19
Prevent Debris From 
Entering the Unit ........................ 19
Remove Power Before Servicing .. 19
General Wiring Guidelines ...................... 19
Wiring ........................................... 19
Grounding ..................................... 20
Surge Suppression ......................... 20
Mounting ....................................... 20
DIN Rail Mounting .................................. 20
Reattach the DIN Brackets 
(if needed) ................................... 20
DIN Rail Installation ..................... 21
Dimensions ................................... 21
Panel Mounting ........................................ 22
Attach the Panel Mount
Brackets ........................................ 22
Dimensions ................................... 22
Power Wiring ........................................... 23
Network Connections ............................... 24
EtherNet/IP DLR Applications ..... 24
PROFINET MRP Applications .... 24
Installing Relays ....................................... 24
Relay Output Wiring ................................ 24
Task: Set the IP Address and 
Protocol
Determine the Best Method ..................... 25
Use Factory Default Settings ................... 25
Use the Embedded Web Server ................ 26
Task: Implicit Communications with
an EDS
Obtain the EDS file ..................................31
Install the EDS file ................................... 31
Start the EDS Hardware 
Installation Tool .......................... 31
Install the EDS File ....................... 32
Host System Configuration ...................... 34
Add the RBE2-8 to Your Project ............. 34
Configure the RBE2-8 .............................. 35
General Tab ................................... 35
Connection Tab ............................. 35
Buffering the I/O Data ............................. 35

TABLE OF CONTENTS RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
4
Task: Implicit Communications
Without an EDS
Host System Configuration ...................... 36
Add the RBE2-8 ....................................... 36
Buffer I/O Data ......................................... 39
Task: EtherNet/IP Explicit 
Messaging
Required Message Instructions ................ 40
Create Four New Data Files ..................... 40
Add the Message Instructions to your 
Ladder Logic .......................................... 41
Troubleshooting ....................................... 44
Task: Modbus TCP Configuration
Enable Modbus TCP Protocol .................. 45
Modbus Addressing .................................. 45
Modbus Table Mapping ................ 45
Host Addressing ............................ 45
AMCI Modbus TCP Memory Layout ...... 46
Supported Number of Connections .......... 46
Supported Modbus Functions ................... 46
Supported Modbus Exceptions ................. 47
Task: PROFINET Network 
Configuration
Basic Steps ............................................... 49
Download the GSDML files .................... 49
GSDML File Installation .......................... 49
Configure the PROFINET Network ......... 49
Add the RBE2-8 to the 
PROFINET Network .............................. 50
Set the I/O Configuration ......................... 52
Verify and Download the 
New Configuration ................................. 52
MRP Installations ..................................... 53
Configure the RBE2-8 as an MRC ........... 53

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ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Audience
This manual explains the set-up, installation, and operation of AMCI’s RBE2-8 Networked Relay Board. It is
written for the engineer responsible for incorporating these units into a design, as well as the engineer or tech-
nician responsible for their actual installation.
Trademark Notices
The AMCI logo is a trademark of Advanced Micro Controls Inc. “CIP” is a trademark of Open DeviceNet
Vendor Association, Inc. “EtherNet/IP” is a trademark of ControlNet International, Ltd. under license by
Open DeviceNet Vendor Association, Inc. “PROFINET” is a registered trademark of PROFIBUS & 
PROFINET International (PI). “Adobe” and “Acrobat” are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorpo-
rated.
All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective holders.
Revision Record
This manual, 940-0R011, is the second release of this manual. It was released May 10th, 2022. It adds addi-
tional relays to the compatible relay list.
Revision History
940-0R010 February 28th, 2022. Initial Release.
Navigating this Manual
This manual is designed to be used in both printed and on-line formats. Its on-line form is a PDF document,
which requires Adobe Acrobat Reader version 7.0+ to open it. The manual is laid out with an even number of
pages in each chapter. This makes it easier to print a chapter to a duplex (double sided) printer.
The PDF file is password protected to prevent changes to the document. You are allowed to select and copy
sections for use in other documents and, if you own Adobe Acrobat version 7.0 or later, you are allowed to
add notes and annotations.
Manual Conventions
Three icons are used to highlight important information in the manual:
NOTES highlight important concepts, decisions you must make, or the implications of those
decisions.
CAUTIONS tell you when equipment may be damaged if the procedure is not followed
properly.
WARNINGS tell you when people may be hurt or equipment may be damaged if the pro-
cedure is not followed properly.
Read this chapter to learn how to navigate through this manual and familiarize
yourself with the conventions used in it. The last section of this chapter highlights
the manual’s remaining chapters and their target audiences.

ABOUT THIS MANUAL RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
6
Manual Conventions (continued)
The following table shows the text formatting conventions:
Where To Go From Here
You will most likely read this manual for one of two reasons:
If you are curious about the RBE2-8 Networked Relay Board from AMCI, this manual contains the
information you need to determine if these product is the right one for your application. The first chap-
ter, RBE2-8 Introduction contains all of the information you will need to fully specify the right product
for your application.
If you need to install and use the RBE2-8 Networked Relay Board, then the rest of the manual is written
for you. To simplify installation and configuration, the rest of the manual is broken down into refer-
ences and tasks. Using this product requires you to complete multiple tasks, and the manual is broken
down into sections that explain how to complete each one.
Format Description
Normal Font Font used throughout this manual.
Emphasis Font Font used the first time a new term is introduced.
Cross Reference When viewing the PDF version of the manual, clicking on
the cross reference text jumps you to referenced section.
HTML Link When viewing the PDF version of the manual, clicking on
the link will connect you with the www.amci.com website.
Chapter Title Page Intended Audience
RBE2-8 Introduction 7Anyone new to the RBE2-8. This chapter gives a basic overview of
the features available on the unit and specifications.
Data Formats 15 Anyone that needs detailed information on the data formats used
by the RBE2-8 to communicate with its host controller.
Configuring Network
Interfaces 17 Basic information on configuring a PC or laptop to successfully
communicate with an RBE2-8 to set its IP address.
Installing the
RBE2-8 19 Anyone that must install an RBE2-8 on a machine. Includes infor- mation on mounting, grounding, and wiring specific to the units.
Set the IP Address
and Protocol 25 Anyone that needs to change the IP address or communications  protocol used by the RBE2-8.
Implicit
Communicationswith
an EDS 31 Anyone that needs information on installing an EDS file for use on
EtherNet/IP systems. An Allen-Bradley controller is used as an
example.
Implicit
Communications
Without an EDS 36 Anyone that needs information on configuring Implicit Messaging
on an EtherNet/IP system that does not use EDS files. An Allen-
Bradley controller is used as an example.
EtherNet/IP Explicit
Messaging 40 Anyone that needs information on configuring Explicit Messaging
on an EtherNet/IP system. An Allen-Bradley controller is used as
an example.
Modbus TCP
Configuration 45 Anyone using Modbus TCP to communicate with the RBE2-8.
PROFINET Network
Configuration 49 Anyone using PROFINET to communicate with the RBE2-8. A
Siemens SIMATIC controller is used as an example.

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REFERENCE 1
RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION
The RBE2-8
The RBE2-8 is a member of the growing line of products from AMCI that incorporate our E2 Technology. E2
Technology by AMCI is an innovative new multi-protocol approach to Ethernet distributed I/O.
E2 Technology products are simple and intuitive, allowing easy transition between Ethernet/IP, PROFINET,
or Modbus/TCP protocols without the need to physically switch parts. An advanced web server integrated
into all AMCI E2 Technology devices facilitates simple network configuration and troubleshooting via a
web-browser. Furthermore, an impressive array of advanced features for each supported protocol has been
incorporated into the devices to meet many unique application requirements.
The RBE2-8 is an eight output relay board that accepts AC and DC solid state relays. The RBE2-8 can drive
high power loads while allowing you to lower wiring cost by placing the RBE2-8 close to those loads and
running a single network cable back to the host controller. The RBE2-8 also future-proofs your high power
output design. The host controller can be updated to any future platform that supports EtherNet/IP, 
PROFINET, or Modbus TCP and the RBE2-8 will operate with the new system.
Features of the RBE2-8 include:
Compatible with a variety of AC and DC solid state relays
24 Vdc operation
A push button on the relay board that disables / enables the outputs
A DIP switch on the relay board sets the state of outputs if there is a network communications loss
A Reset Module push button to reboot the relay board without the need to cycle power
All relay control lines are monitored for open, short to ground, and short to power supply
Each unit has two Ethernet ports which are internally connected through an onboard, two port, 10/100 Mbps
ethernet switch. These ports allow you to wire your network in a “daisy-chain” fashion, which may lower net-
work wiring costs and complexities.
The two ports also allow the units to function as members of a redundant Device Level Ring (DLR) network
when using the EtherNet/IP protocol or as clients in a Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP) network when
using PROFINET.
In DLR environments, the units act as Beacon-Based Ring Nodes. All units can process beacon packets at the
default rate of every 400 microseconds. Beacon-based nodes can respond faster to network changes than
nodes that only process Announce packets.
This reference section contains the information you need to decide if the RBE2-8
Networked Relay Board is the right product for your application.

RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
8
Unit Description
Figure R1.1 shows the layout of the RBE2-8 Networked Relay Board.
Figure R1.1 RBE2-8 Layout
1) The RBE2-8 can be mounted on a DIN rail or directly on a panel. The four outer screws on the unit, and
the included two brackets, allow you to change how the unit is mounted. Instructions, and dimensional
drawings of the two configurations, can be found in the Installing the RBE2-8 section of the manual,
starting on page 19.
2) Two RJ45 Ethernet jacks. The two ports are connected through an embedded two port switch. Both ports
feature auto-switch and auto-MDIX functionality. They will automatically adjust to the speed of your
network, and crossover cables are never needed. In non-redundant networks, either port can be used to
connect to your host controller and the other port can be used to extend the network if this would reduce
wiring costs. In redundant networks, both ports are used. There is a Link Activity LED on each connector.
See the Status LEDs section starting on page 9 for a description of these LED’s.
3) Status LED’s. The Module Status and Network Status LED’s indicate the state of the unit and the network
connection. The state of the LED’s is determined by the protocol the RBE2-8 is configured for. See the
Status LEDs section starting on page 9 for a complete description.
4) Output Mode momentary pushbutton and LED. Allows you to disable the outputs from the relay board
regardless of the state of the network data. Press the button to toggle between its Active and Disabled
states. The LED is red when the outputs are disabled by the switch and green when the outputs are
controlled by the network data.
5) Communication Error Mode switch. This slide switch is used to specify what state the output take if the
network connection is lost. When the switch is off, the outputs retain their last state. When the switch is on,
all of the outputs turn off if the network connection is lost. The state of this switch is only read when power
is applied to the relay board or when the relay board is reset with the “Reset Module” button.
6) Reset Module momentary pushbutton. This pushbutton can be used to force the RBE2-8 to re-read the state
of the Communication Error Mode switch and/or disconnect and reconnect to the network. If you
disconnect the RBE2-8 from your host controller and attach it to your PC to troubleshoot or reconfigure the
relay board, press the Reset Module switch to force the RBE2 to drop all connections to the host controller
and create new ones with your PC.
7) Relay hold down bar and thumb screws. This bar and thumb screws are used to keep the relays in place in
applications that are subject to shock and vibration.
8) Eight Output Relays. The relays are field replaceable. A variety of AC and DC relays are compatible with
the RBE2-8. See Compatible Relays, starting on page 11, for information on compatible relays. Please
note that relays are not included with the RBE2-8.
MODULE
STATUS
OUTPUT MODE:
GND +24V

ON
COMM.
ERROR
MODE
GRN / NORMAL
RED / ALL OFF
OUTPUT
MODE
TOGGLE
RESET
MODULE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8
NETWORK
STATUS




 

11

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RBE2-8 User Manual RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION
9
Unit Description (continued)
9) Channel Status LED’s. These eight LED’s show the on/off status of the control signals to the relays. (One
LED for each relay.) Note that this is the control side of the relay. The RBE2-8 cannot monitor the state of
the relay output due to the required isolation.
10)Power Connector. The RBE2-8 requires 24 Vdc to operate. The maximum current draw is 300 mA. An
earth ground pin is also available on this connector.
11) Relay Output Connector. Each relay output has a two pin connector. These connectors offer a high voltage
and current connection to your load device.
Status LEDs
Output Mode LED
The Output Mode LED is a bi-color red/green LED. For its location on the relay board, see item in figure
R1.1 on page 8.
Table R1.1 Output Mode LED
Channel Status LEDs
Each output channel has a yellow status LED that shows the state of the relay control signal. For their loca-
tions on the relay board, see item in figure R1.1 on page 8.
Table R1.2 Channel Status LEDs
Link Activity LEDs
There is a Link Activity LED on each of the two RJ45 connectors. For their locations on the relay board, see
item in figure R1.1 on page 8. They are amber LEDs.
Table R1.3 Link Activity LEDs
LED State Description
Red The relays are disabled. Press the Output Mode push
button once to enable the relays.
Green The state of the relays is controlled by the host control- ler. Press the Output Mode push button once to disable
the relays.
LED State Description
Off The relay is off and should not be conducting current.
On The relay is on and should be conducting current.
LED State Description
Off A valid Ethernet hardware connection does not exist
between the RBE2-8 and the network equipment it is
connected to.
On The RBE2-8 has a valid hardware connection to the
network equipment it is attached to.
Blinking The RBE2-8 is transmitting data across the Ethernet
link.

RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
10
Status LED’s (continued)
Module Status (MS) LED
The Module Status LED is a bi-color red/green LED. For its location on the relay board, see item in figure
R1.1 on page 8. The unit will blink the Module Status LED green during initialization. After initialization, the
state of the LED depends on the state of the network adapter and the configured protocol.
Table R1.4 Module Status LED States
Network Status (NS) LED
The Network Status LED is a bi-color red/green LED. For its location on the relay board, see item in figure
R1.1 on page 8. The state of the LED depends on the state of the network adapter on the protocol the RBE2-8
is configured to for.
Table R1.5 Network Status LED States
LED State EtherNet/IP Definition Modbus TCP Definition PROFINET Definition
Off No Power No Power No power
Alternating
Red/Green
Initializing: Power up Self-Test
Communications failure. There is a communications error between the main processor and
the ethernet co-processor within the unit. You must cycle power to the RBE2-8 to attempt
to clear this fault, or press the “Reset Module” push button to reset the relay board.
Flashing
Green Initializing: Waiting for valid physical connection to the network.
Steady Green Module and Network are operational. Device Name or IP Address
are set.
Flashing Red Initializing: IP Address conflict Initializing: Device Name or
IP Address are not set.
If the Network Status LED is also flashing, the IP Address or Network Protocol has been
changed. Cycle power to the unit or press the “Reset Module” push button to continue.
LED State EtherNet/IP Definition Modbus TCP Definition PROFINET Definition
Off No Power No power or no TCP 
connections
No power, duplicate IP
address on the network,
mismatch in Device Name,
or no connection to IO 
Controller.
Alternating
Red/Green Power up Self-Test Power up Self-Test Power up Self-Test
Blinking
Green Ethernet connection, but no CIP connections
Indicates number of connec-
tions with 2 second delay
between group. The 
RBE2-8 supports up to four
concurrent connections.
On-line, Stop state. A 
connection with the IO 
Controller is establishedand
it is in its STOP state.
Steady Green Valid Ethernet network
and CIP connections Not Implemented On-line, Run state. A 
connection with the IO 
Controller is establishedand
it is in its RUN state.
Blinking Red
If the MS LED is steady
green: Network 
Connection Timeout Not Implemented Not Implemented
If the MS LED is blinking green: IP Address or Network Protocol changed: Cycle
power
Steady Red Duplicate IP address on network. Not Implemented.

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RBE2-8 User Manual RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION
11
Compatible Relays
The RBE2-8 was designed for compatibility with the following AC and DC Relays:
Sensata-Crydom MCXE240D5, MP120D3, MP240D3, and MP240D4 AC relays
Opto22 MP120D4, and MP240D4 AC relays
Sensata-Crydom MPDCD3 and MPDCD3-B DC Relays
Opto22 DC60MP and DC200MP DC Relays
Relays from other manufacturers that have identical physical dimensions and use 24Vdc as the control volt-
age, should also be compatible with the RBE2-8. Contact AMCI for assistance if required.
AC Relay Specifications
Table R1.6 AC Relay Specifications
DC Relay Specifications
Table R1.7 DC Relay Specifications
Crydom Crydom Crydom Crydom
MP120D3 MP240D3 MP240D4 MCXE240D5
Control Voltage (Vdc) 3 - 32 3 - 32 3 - 32 15 - 32
Typical Control Current (mA) 23 23 23 15
Load Voltage (Vrms) 47-63 Hz 12 - 140 24 - 280 24 - 280 12 - 280
Transient Overvoltage (Vpk) 400 600 600 600
Maximum Off-State Leakage Current (mA) 5 5 5 0.1
Minimum Off-State dv/dt (v/µs) 200 200 200 500
MaximumLoadCurrent(Arms)3345
Minimum Load Current (Arms) 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.06
Maximum Surge Current (Apk for 16.67 mS) 90 90 130 250
Maximum On-State Voltage Drop 1.6 1.6 1.6 1.4
Minimum Power Factor @ Max. Load 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Opto22 Opto22
MP120D4 MP240D4
Control Voltage (Vdc) 3 - 24 3 - 24
Typical Control Current (mA) 24 24
Load Voltage (Vrms) 47-63 Hz 12 - 140 24 - 280
Transient Overvoltage (Vpk) 600 600
Maximum Off-State Leakage Current (mA) 5 5
Maximum Load Current (Arms) 4 4
Minimum Load Current (Arms)
Maximum Surge Current (Apk for 16.67 mS) 47 47
Maximum On-State Voltage Drop 1.6 1.6
Crydom Opto22 Opto22
MPDCD3(-B) DC60MP DC200MP
Control Voltage (Vdc) 3 - 32 3 - 24 3 - 24
Typical Control Current (mA) 23 24 24
Load Voltage (Vdc) 3 - 60 3 - 60 12 - 250
Maximum Load Current (Adc) 3 3 1
Minimum Load Current (Adc) 0.02
Maximum Surge Current (Adc for 1 Second) 5 5 2
Maximum On-State Voltage Drop (Vdc) 1.5 1.5 1.5
Maximum Off-State Leakage Current (mA) 1.0 1.0 1.0

RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
12
Compatible Relays (continued)
Relay Dimensions
The following figure are the dimensions of the listed compatible relays. Other relays must be of the same
dimensions to be compatible.
Figure R1.2 Dimensions of Compatible Relays
Relay Environmental Curves
The following figure show the maximum allowable load current per relay vs. the ambient temperature. Note
that the RBE2-8 itself is rated to 50°C.
Figure R1.3 Relay Maximum Allowable Current
0.30" [7.6]
LOAD CTRL
0.025"
[0.64]
0.16" [4.1]
0.50"
[12.7]
0.40" [10.2]
1.00" [25.4]
1.00"
[25.4]
1.40" [35.6]
1.70" [43.2]
6.0
Load Current (A
m
ps)
Ambient Temperature (°C)
Crydom MCXE240D5
Crydom MP240D4
Opto22 MP120D4
MP240D4
Opto22 DC60MP
Opto22 DC200MP
Crydom MP120D3
MP240D3
MPDCD3
MPDCD3-B
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
20 40 60 80
Maximum operating
temperature of RBE2-8













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RBE2-8 User Manual RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION
13
Specifications
Network Interface
10/100baseT. Two switched ports. 
Supports EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and Modbus
TCP. EtherNet/IP-DLR and PROFINET-MRP
extensions also supported.
Number of I/O Words (16 bits each)
Two input words and two output words.
Mounting
DIN rail or panel mount. The RBE2-8 ships in its
DIN rail mount configuration. Mounting style
can be changed in the field. DIN channel can be
EN 05 022 or EN 05 035.
Physical Dimensions
See page 21 for the DIN rail mount configuration
See page 22 for the panel mount configuration
Weight
1.50 lb (0.68 kg) maximum
Input Power
24 Vdc ± 10%. Requires a maximum of 7.3 watts
when all relays are on. (0.3A @ 24Vdc)
Maximum Relay Output Voltage
300 Vac. The RBE2-8 is designed for operation
with 240Vac relays. 380Vac and 480Vac relays
are not compatible.
Compatible Relays
Sensata-Crydom MCXE240D5, MP120D3,
MP240D3, and MP240D4 AC relays.
Opto22 MP120D4 and MP240D4 AC relays.
Sensata-Crydom MPDCD3 and MPDCD3-B 
DC Relays
Opto22 DC60MP and DC200MP AC relays.
Relays from other manufacturers that have an iden-
tical height and pin configuration, and use
24Vdc as the control voltage, should also be
compatible with the RBE2-8. Contact AMCI for
assistance if required.
Status LEDs
See Status LEDs starting on page 9.
Environmental Specifications
Ambient Operating Temperature†
............ -4° to 122°F (-20° to 50°C)
Storage Temperature
............ -40° to 185°F (-40° to 85°C)
Humidity ............ 0 to 95%, non-condensing
† This specification is for the RBE2-8 Networked
Relay Board itself. The actual operating temper-
ature may be limited by the relays.
The following Opto22 relays are available from AMCI using the
given AMCI part numbers.
AC Relays AMCI Part # DC Relays AMCI Part #
MP120D4 KA-1 DC60MP KD-1
MP240D4 KA-2 DC200MP KD-2

RBE2-8 INTRODUCTION RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
14
Notes

20 Gear Drive, Plymouth Ind. Park, Terryville, CT 06786
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] http://www.amci.com 15
REFERENCE 2
DATA FORMATS
Data Addressing
When using the PROFINET protocol or the EtherNet/IP protocol with an EDS file, the input and output reg-
isters are named in the GSDML or EDS file. When using the EtherNet/IP protocol without an EDS file, both
the input and output registers start with address 0.
Addresses for the Modbus TCP protocol are given in zero based addressing in this manual. In this scheme, the
first register is given an address of zero. This is the actual addressing scheme used in the Modbus packets.
Input registers start at address 0. Output registers start at address 1024.
Output Data Format
Figure R2.1 below shows the format of the output data. The bottom eight bits of the first output word are used
to control the state of the eight relay outputs. A “0” in the bit location turns the output off. A “1” in the bit
locations turns the output on. Note that the state of these bits is ignored and the outputs are forced off if the
Output Mode momentary pushbutton is toggled to its Disabled state.
See bullet of figure R1.1 on page 8 for location of the Output Mode momentary pushbutton and its LED.
Note that the Output Mode state is reported in the network input data.
Figure R2.1 Output Data Format
This reference chapter details the input and output data formats used to commu-
nicate with the RBE2-8.
EtherNet/IP
PROFINET
Word Modbus TCP
Register Bit Number
15 14 13 12 11 10 9876543210
01024 00000000
Output_K8 Output_K7 Output_K6 Output_K5 Output_K4 Output_K3 Output_K2 Output_K1
11025 0000000000000000
IGNORED: Bit should equal zero for compatibility with
future versions.

DATA FORMATS RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
16
Input Data Format
Figure R2.2 below shows the format of the network input data.
Figure R2.2 Input Data Format
Word 1 Input Bits
Bit 14: Heartbeat Bit – This bit will change state approximately every 500 milliseconds. Monitor this bit to
verify that the unit and network connection are operating correctly.
Bit 13: Output Mode State Bit – This bit reports the present state of the Output Mode toggle. If this bit
equals “1”, the outputs are forced off, regardless of the state of their control bits in Output Word 0. If
this bit equals “0”, then the outputs are controlled by the state of their control bits in Output Word 0.

The state of this bit is controlled by the Output Mode momentary pushbutton. See bullet of figure
R1.1 on page 8 for location of this pushbutton and its LED. Note that this bit is reset on power up or
when the RBE2-8 board is reset by the Reset Module momentary pushbutton.
Word 0 Input Bits
Bits 07- 00:Relay Fault Bits – The low power input circuit of each relay is monitored for fault conditions.
Each relay has a fault bit associated with it. The associated bit equals “0” when the corresponding relay is
functioning normally. The associated bit equals “1” when the corresponding relay has a fault. Table R2.1
below lists the fault states based on the state of the Output_K’n’ bit and the Fault_’n’ bit. (‘n’ = 1 to 8.) This
table assumes that the Output Mode State bit (Input Word 1, bit 13) equals “0”.
Table R2.1 Multi-Word Format Examples
1) The monitoring circuit only monitors the state of the circuit that drives the low power input
circuit of the relay. Due to the required opto-isolation of the relay, the high power drive cir-
cuit of the relay cannot be monitored.
2) Open circuit faults are always detected. Shorts to ground or the 24Vdc supply can only be
detected when the relay is driven low or high with the Output_K’n’ control bit. In the case
of a short to ground, the fault bit will be off when you command the relay to turn on. The
fault bit will turn on when you command the relay to turn off.
EtherNet/IP
PROFINET
Word Modbus TCP
Register Bit Number
15 14 13 12 11 10 9876543210
0 0 00000000
Fault_8 Fault_7 Fault_6 Fault_5 Fault_4 Fault_3 Fault_2 Fault_1
1 1 0
Heartbeat
OutputMode
0000000000000
Fault_’n’
State Output_K’n’ State Description
0 0 No fault detected, the relay is off.
0 1 No fault detected, the relay is on.
1 0 A fault is detected. The fault is an open circuit, or a short to
ground. Replace the relay to try to fix the problem.
1 1 A fault is detected. The fault is an open circuit, or a short to
the 24Vdc supply. Replace the relay to try to fix the problem.

20 Gear Drive, Plymouth Ind. Park, Terryville, CT 06786
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] http://www.amci.com 17
REFERENCE 3
CONFIGURING NETWORK INTERFACES
Firewall Settings
Firewalls are hardware devices or software that prevent unwanted network connections from occurring. Fire-
wall software has been present on Windows based computers since XP, and it may prevent your computer
from communicating with the RBE2-8. The internal webserver uses port 80, which is the default http port,
and should work without changing any firewall settings. Configuring your firewall to allow communication
with the RBE2-8 is beyond the scope of this manual.
Disable All Unused Network Interfaces
Routing and default gateway setting on your computer might prevent connection to the RBE2-8. When using
the Net Configurator utility, broadcast packets that are used to find the RBE2-8 often go out the wrong port.
The easiest way to avoid this problem is to temporarily disable all network interfaces that are not attached to
the RBE2-8.
This includes all wireless interfaces as well as all Bluetooth interfaces.
Configure Your Network Interface
Before you can communicate with the RBE2-8, your network interface must be on the same subnet as the
relay board.
The rest of this procedure assumes you are using the 192.168.0.xxx subnet. If you are not, you
will have to adjust the given network addresses accordingly.
The easiest way to check the current settings for your NIC is with the ‘ipconfig’ command.
For Windows 7, click on the [Start] button, and type “cmd” in the “Search programs and files” text box.
Press [Enter] on the keyboard.
For Windows 8 and 10, press the [Win+X] keys and select “Command Prompt” from the resulting
popup. There is no need to run the command prompt as the administrator, so do not select “Command
Prompt (Admin)”.
This section lists suggestions for configuring the network interfaces on your com-
puter or laptop before attaching to the RBE2-8.

CONFIGURING NETWORK INTERFACES RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
18
Configure Your Network Interface (continued)
A DOS like terminal will open. Type in ‘ipconfig’, press [Enter] on the keyboard and the computer will return
the present Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway for all of your network interfaces. If your present
address is 192.168.0.xxx, where ‘xxx’ does not equal 50, and your subnet mask is 255.255.255.0, then you
are ready to configure your RBE2-8 board. Figure R3.1 shows the output of an ipconfig command that shows
the “Local Area Connection 2” interface on the 192.168.0.xxx subnet.
Figure R3.1 ipconfig Command
If your present address is not in the 192.168.0.xxx range, type in ‘ncpa.cpl’ at the command prompt and hit
[Enter] on the keyboard.
For Windows 7 through 10, this open the Network Connections window. Double click on the appropri-
ate interface. In the window that opens, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP v4)” from the list
and then click on the [Properties] button.
Set the address and subnet mask to appropriate values. (192.168.0.1 and 255.255.255.0 will work for an
RBE2-8 that has factory default settings.) The default gateway and DNS server settings can be ignored.
Test Your Network Interface
Going back to the terminal you opened in the last step, type in ‘ping aaa.bbb.ccc.ddd’ where
‘aaa.bbb.ccc.ddd’ in the IP address of the RBE2-8. The computer will ping the unit and the message “Reply
from aaa.bbb.ccc.ddd: bytes=32 time<10ms TTL=128” should appear four times.
If the message “Request timed out.” or “Destination host unreachable” appears, then one of four things has
occurred:
You set a new IP address, but have not yet cycled power to the RBE2-8
You did not enter the correct address in the ping command.
The IP address of the RBE2-8 is not set correctly.
The RBE2-8 and the computer are not on the same subnet.

20 Gear Drive, Plymouth Ind. Park, Terryville, CT 06786
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] http://www.amci.com 19
TASK 1
INSTALLING THE RBE2-8
1.1 Safe Handling Guidelines
1.1.1 Prevent Electrostatic Damage
Electrostatic discharge can damage the RBE2-8. Follow these guidelines when handling
the relay board.
1) Touch a grounded object to discharge static potential before handling the unit.
2) Work in a static-safe environment whenever possible.
3) Wear an approved wrist-strap grounding device.
4) Do not touch the pins of the Ethernet connectors.
5) Do not disassemble the relay board except to change the mounting style as
described in this chapter.
6) Store the module in its anti-static bag and shipping box when it is not in use.
1.1.2 Prevent Debris From Entering the Unit
While mounting a unit, make sure that all debris (metal chips, wire strands, tapping liq-
uids, etc.) is prevented from falling into the board. Debris may cause damage to the unit
or unintended machine operation with possible personal injury. When using DIN rail to
mount the unit, the rail should be securely installed and grounded before the unit is
mounted on it.
1.1.3 Remove Power Before Servicing
Remove power before removing or installing the RBE2-8 module.
1.2 General Wiring Guidelines
When wiring any control system, these guidelines must be followed to help prevent electromagnetic interfer-
ence and ground loops:
1.2.1 Wiring
Networking signals are generally low voltage, low power signals. If you are using A-B guidelines for cabling
installation, treat the transducer cable as a Category 2 cable. Ethernet cables can be installed in conduit along
with other low power communication cables and low power ac/dc I/O lines. It cannot be installed in conduit
with ac power lines or high power ac/dc I/O lines including cabling from the relay outputs of the RBE2-8.
If the Ethernet cables must cross power feed lines, they should do so at right angles.
Route at least five feet from high voltage enclosures, or sources of “rf” radiation.
This chapter covers the physical installation of the RBE2-8.

INSTALLING THE RBE2-8 RBE2-8 User Manual
ADVANCED MICRO CONTROLS INC.
20
1.2 General Wiring Guidelines (continued)
1.2.2 Grounding
All ground connections must be permanent and continuous to provide a low-impedance path to earth
ground for induced noise currents.
The chassis of the RBE2-8 must be connected to chassis ground through a grounding wire connected to
the ground connection of the power supply connector.
The power supply that is attached to the RBE2-8 must be connected to the same chassis ground as the
unit to avoid ground loops.
All isolation transformer secondary windings must be grounded to the same earth ground as the
machine ground.
1.2.3 Surge Suppression
Surge suppression devices should be placed across the coil of an inductive device to reduce the effects
of high voltage transients (i.e., varistors, diodes, etc.). This includes any inductive load that is powered
by the same supply used to power the RBE2-8 and any of the loads attached to its relay outputs.
1.2.4 Mounting
If mounting an RBE2-8 on an enclosure door, do not rely on the hinge to make an electrical connection
between the door and the enclosure. A bonding wire from the door to the rest of the enclosure must be
installed.
When mounting an RBE2-8 on DIN Rail, the included plastic DIN rail brackets will electrically isolate the
unit. A grounding wire must be run from the grounding pin on the power connector to an earth ground point.
1.3a DIN Rail Mounting
Follow these instructions when mounting an RBE2-8 on a DIN rail.
1.3a.1 Reattach the DIN Brackets (if needed)
The RBE2-8 ships with the DIN brackets installed. Figure T1.1 shows how to install the DIN brackets if con-
verting an RBE2-8 from its panel mount configuration.
Figure T1.1 Attaching DIN Brackets




1) Remove the two screws that hold the bracket in place.
2) Remove the bracket.
3) Slide the plastic DIN adapter into the
channel to install it.
4) Reverse the bracket and reattach it to the relay board with
the two screws.
REPEAT THESE STEPS TO CONVERT THE OTHER SIDE.