Siemens 6ES5385-8MA11 Counter Module

Dual-Channel Counting for Legacy Systems

This Siemens 6ES5385-8MA11 module operates two independent 24V DC down-counters for your SIMATIC S5 rack. It counts incoming signal pulses from a preset value down to zero. The maximum input frequency reaches 500 Hz per channel. A green LED illuminates when the counter successfully reaches zero. The module then energizes its 24V DC output immediately.

Hardware Configuration & Interface Details

You set the input voltage range using rocker switches on the front panel. Three-digit thumbwheel switches allow direct setpoint entries from 0 to 999. The module occupies a single slot in your S5 rack, typically slot 2. It scans like a standard two-channel digital input module. Consequently, you control the counting process through your existing S5 program.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Specification
Dimensions (H x W x D)	13.5 cm x 4.5 cm x 10.0 cm
Weight	0.2 kg (0.4 lb)
Operating Voltage	24V DC
Number of Counters	2 independent down-counters
Max Counting Frequency	500 Hz
Selectable Input Voltages	5V DC or 24V DC
Setpoint Range	0 to 999 (thumbwheel settable)
Output Signal	24V DC (energized at zero count)
Status Indication	Green LED per channel

Operational Workflow

The 6ES5385-8MA11 control program enables the counting function easily. Channel “0” and Channel “1” work independently without interference. You read the current counter value just like a digital input. Finally, the output acts as a standard 24V DC digital output.