Description
Key Technical Specifications
The original Berger Lahr product brochure provides the following specifications for the C162:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product designation | BLS 2020 C162 |
| Manufacturer | SIG Positec / Berger Lahr |
| Product type | Slot-mounted industrial PC CPU |
| Processor platform | PC104, 386EX |
| Upgrade option | PC104 module upgrade, e.g. 486 DX |
| Supply voltage | 24 VDC |
| Serial interface 1 | COM1 – RS-232 |
| Serial interface 2 | COM2 – RS-485 |
| CAN interfaces | 2 |
| RAM | 256 KB to 1 MB, depending on configuration |
| Flash EPROM | 1 MB |
| NVRAM | 16 KB |
| Digital inputs | 16 optically isolated inputs |
| Digital outputs | 8 optically isolated outputs |
| Maximum input voltage | 30 V |
| Input resistance | 2.2 kΩ |
| Input debounce time | 1 ms |
| Output supply | 24 VDC ±20% |
| Maximum output current | 400 mA per output |
| Output protection | Short-circuit protected |
| Mounting format | 19-inch, 6U rack; 10 HP slot width |
BLS2020 C162
Product Introduction
The Berger Lahr BLS 2020 C162 is a PC104-based industrial CPU module designed for the BLS 2020 modular motion-control system. Its original hardware configuration uses a 386EX processor platform mounted on a 19-inch, 6U rack carrier. The PC104 processor module can be upgraded to a higher-performance option, such as a 486 DX, depending on the system configuration.
The C162 combines serial communication, dual CAN interfaces, programmable digital I/O, and internal watchdog functionality. It was designed for machine-control applications requiring coordination between motion-control hardware, field signals, and higher-level control logic. The broader BLS 2020 platform supports positioning functions such as point-to-point motion, electronic gearing, and electronic cam profiles.
This is not a modern general-purpose PLC CPU or a complete standalone industrial computer. It is a legacy controller board intended for its specific BLS 2020 rack architecture. The installed PC104 processor, memory configuration, application software, and associated motion-control cards must be checked before replacement.
Application Scenarios & Field Pitfalls
Typical applications
- Industrial machine positioning and motion coordination.
- Printing and packaging equipment.
- Automated loading and unloading machinery.
- Legacy machine-control systems using the BLS 2020 architecture.
- Systems communicating with motion-control modules through CAN.
Field engineering checks
- PC104 processor revision: Confirm whether the installed module uses the original 386EX configuration or an upgraded processor.
- Memory configuration: RAM varies from 256 KB to 1 MB. Verify the original memory arrangement and application requirements.
- CAN communication: The two CAN interfaces use the SIG Positec Berger Lahr interface profile. Do not assume compatibility with an arbitrary CANopen or generic CAN network.
- Digital output loading: Each output has a documented maximum current of 400 mA. Check actual load current and the 24 VDC supply provided through the front panel.
- Application retention: Confirm that the replacement preserves the required program, parameters, and retained data. The presence of flash EPROM and NVRAM does not guarantee that a replacement board contains the original machine application.
Related BLS 2020 Products
| Model | Function | Relationship |
|---|---|---|
| BLS 2020 C197 | Microcontroller CPU and indexer | Alternative CPU architecture |
| BLS 2020 C199 | Microcontroller CPU with I/O extension | Separate controller variant |
| BLS 2020 I159 | Four-axis stepper motor indexer | Motion-control module |
| BLS 2020 I182 | Four-axis stepper motor indexer | Motion-control module |
| BLS 2020 I166 | Dual-axis position controller, ±10 V | Motion-control module |
| BLS 2020 O167 | Digital I/O expansion board | I/O expansion |
| BLS 2020 P160 | 24 VDC / 325 VDC power supply board | Power module |
These are members of the same product family, not direct replacements for the C162.
Procurement and Quality Control
The BLS 2020 C162 belongs to an older industrial control platform. Secondary equipment listings report it as discontinued, but the original manufacturer documentation remains the better source for hardware identification.
Before purchasing, verify:
- Full model designation and PCB revision.
- processor type.
- RAM and memory configuration.
- Connector condition and rack-interface compatibility.
- Digital input/output operation.
- RS-232, RS-485, and both CAN communication channels.
- Availability of the original application program and configuration files.
Replacement advice: Do not substitute a C197 or C199 simply because both are BLS 2020 CPU products. Their processor architectures and I/O arrangements differ. Match the hardware configuration and validate communication with the existing motion-control modules before returning the machine to service.
