Siemens 6FM1480-2BC00 Processor Module

This processor module serves as the central computing unit for Siemens WS496-GRACIS industrial workstations. It executes application software for machine monitoring and process visualization. Therefore, it delivers reliable computing power for demanding industrial environments.

Physical and Processor Specifications

The Siemens 6FM1480-2BC00 measures 23.0 cm in length and 16.0 cm in width. Moreover, its module weight equals approximately 0.85 kg for chassis mounting. A single 96-pin male connector links this processor to the workstation backplane. Additionally, the module includes built-in memory and I/O interfaces.

Parameter	Specification
Brand	Siemens
Full Model	6FM1480-2BC00
Category	Processor Module (WS496-GRACIS)
Dimensions (L x W x H)	23.0 cm x 16.0 cm x 3.5 cm (9.06″ x 6.30″ x 1.38″)
Module Weight	0.85 kg (1.87 lbs)
Backplane Interface	1 x 96-pin Male Connector
Power Supply Input	5 VDC from Backplane (1.5 A Typical)
Power Consumption	7.5 W (Typical)
Processor Type	16-bit Microcontroller (16 MHz)
Main Memory (RAM)	512 kB (Battery Backed)
Flash Memory (ROM)	256 kB (Firmware Storage)
Backup Battery	Internal Lithium (3V, 5 Year Life)
Display Interface	1 x 15-pin D-Sub (VGA Output)
Keyboard Interface	1 x 6-pin Mini-DIN (PS/2)
Mouse Interface	1 x 6-pin Mini-DIN (PS/2)
Parallel Port	1 x 25-pin D-Sub Female (Centronics)
Serial Ports	2 x 9-pin D-Sub Male (RS-232)
Serial Baud Rate	300 to 115200 baud
On-Board Components	1 CPU IC + 6 Memory Chips + 2 UARTs + 1 Display Controller + 1 Keyboard Controller + 1 Parallel Port Controller + 8 Protection Diodes + 1 Voltage Regulator + 4 Line Drivers + 1 Real-Time Clock + 2 Optocouplers
Energy Storage	4 x 470 µF Electrolytic Capacitors (35V) + 4 x 100 µF (16V) + 2 x 10 µF Tantalum (25V) + 1 x CR2032 Backup Battery
Battery Backup Time	5 Years (Typical for RAM and RTC Retention)
Operating Temperature	0°C to +50°C (32°F to 122°F)
Storage Temperature	-20°C to +70°C (-4°F to 158°F)
Mounting Type	WS496-GRACIS Chassis (Single Slot)
Status Indicators	1 Green LED (Power) + 1 Green LED (Run) + 1 Red LED (Fault) + 1 Yellow LED (Disk Activity)

Processing and Memory Architecture

The Siemens 6FM1480-2BC00 features a 16-bit microcontroller running at 16 MHz. Specifically, 512 kB of battery-backed RAM stores user applications and process data. In addition, 256 kB of Flash memory holds the workstation firmware permanently. Moreover, a lithium battery retains RAM contents for up to five years without power. Consequently, this processor preserves critical process data during shutdowns.

Integrated I/O and Connectivity Features

You will find multiple I/O interfaces built directly onto this processor module. For instance, the VGA output connects to standard industrial monitors for display. In addition, PS/2 ports support external keyboards and pointing devices. Furthermore, two RS-232 serial ports connect to PLCs, printers, and barcode scanners. Likewise, the parallel port interfaces with printers or data storage devices. Thus, this processor module operates as a complete industrial computer.

Energy Storage and Operational Stability

This processor module stores energy using ten onboard capacitors for power filtering. Specifically, four electrolytic capacitors smooth the 5 VDC supply for stable CPU operation. In addition, four capacitors filter power for memory and display circuits. Furthermore, two tantalum capacitors provide high-frequency noise suppression for serial interfaces. Therefore, the Siemens 6FM1480-2BC00 continues operating through brief power interruptions reliably.

Installation and Diagnostic Indicators

Four LED indicators provide operational status at a glance on this module. First, a green Power LED lights when the 5 VDC backplane supply is present. Second, a green Run LED flashes during normal program execution. Third, a red Fault LED indicates hardware errors or watchdog timeouts. Finally, a yellow Disk Activity LED illuminates during memory read or write operations. Thus, you can diagnose system health instantly without external tools.