Product Core Brief

• Model: MC-4/11/01/400
• Brand: ELAU (Schneider Electric)
• Series: PacDrive MC-4 Series
• Core Function: Compact, single-axis digital servo controller integrating the power supply, power output stage, and software controller into a single housing.
• Product Type: Distributed Servo Drive / Motor Controller
• Key Specs: 1.5A Rated Current | 400V AC Input | Optical Fiber Communication
• Condition: New Surplus / OEM Original

ELAU MC-4/11/01/400

Key Technical Specifications

• Part Number / Ordering Code: 13130244
• Rated Current: 1.5 A
• Input Voltage: 400V AC (Universal Voltage Range)
• Communication: Integrated Serial Real-Time Communication Protocol (via Fiber Optic Cable)
• Motor Compatibility: Optimized for PacDrive SH Series Servo Motors (supports torque and linear motors with appropriate feedback)
• Feedback Support: Single-turn and Multi-turn Absolute Encoders
• Overload Capacity: 250%
• Mounting: Wall-mountable, compact form factor
• Safety Features: Safe Inverter Enable Input, Overload/Overvoltage Protection
• Configuration: Auto-identification via electronic motor nameplate (No user program required for standard setup)

Product Introduction

Engineered for highly distributed automation architectures, the ELAU MC-4/11/01/400 represents a paradigm shift in motion control. Rather than relying on a centralized drive cabinet, this compact controller integrates the power unit, power output stage, and axis software controller directly into a single, space-saving housing.

Communicating exclusively via fiber optic cables with the central PacController or PacPC, this drive is immune to electrical noise and perfectly suited for decentralized machine layouts. Its advanced microprocessor automatically identifies the connected motor via its electronic nameplate, eliminating manual tuning and drastically reducing commissioning time. Widely used in packaging, printing, and food processing, it delivers the high precision and rapid response required for modern high-speed machinery.

QA & Testing SOP

Servo controllers require rigorous validation of their power stages and communication links. We ensure the unit is ready for high-speed deployment.

1. Anti-Counterfeit & Visual Audit: We inspect the ELAU/Schneider silkscreen, verify the 13130244 part number, and check the fiber optic ports and power terminals for physical damage or corrosion.
2. Power Stage & Overload Test: We apply 400V AC input and verify the internal DC bus charges correctly, testing the output stage to ensure it can handle the 250% overload specification without tripping.
3. Fiber Optic Communication Validation: We connect the drive to a test controller via fiber optic cable to verify real-time serial communication, confirming zero packet loss and correct handshake protocols.
4. Auto-Identification Simulation: We verify the drive’s ability to read an electronic motor nameplate and correctly configure its control loops for absolute encoder feedback.
5. ESD Safe Packaging: The sensitive logic boards and fiber receivers are highly ESD sensitive. We pack in anti-static shielding with rigid corner protection to prevent transit damage.

ELAU MC-4/11/01/400

Installation Pitfalls & Guide

❗ Fiber Optic Handling: This drive communicates only via fiber optic cable. Never bend the fiber cable beyond its minimum bend radius, and always keep the optical ports capped when not in use. Dust or micro-scratches on the fiber end-face will cause intermittent communication faults.

❗ Hardware & Software Matching: When replacing a failed MC-4 drive, you must match the exact hardware code (e.g., D0H503) and software version (e.g., SW-Time) of the original unit. Mismatched firmware in a distributed PacDrive system can cause synchronization failures across the fiber network.

❗ Motor Compatibility: While optimized for PacDrive SH series motors, using third-party or mismatched motors requires precise feedback configuration. Always verify the encoder type (single/multi-turn absolute) matches the drive’s configuration parameters to prevent runaway conditions.

Replacement SOP:

1. Pre-Install: Document the existing hardware code, software version, and fiber routing; place the machine in bypass/maintenance mode.
2. Removal: Disconnect the 400V AC power and fiber optic cables; release the wall-mount locking mechanism and extract the drive.
3. Install: Mount the new MC-4/11/01/400; connect the fiber optic cables (verify click/lock); reconnect AC power.
4. Power-On Test: Apply 400V AC; verify the drive boots and establishes a solid fiber link with the master controller; confirm motor auto-identification completes successfully before removing bypass.

Technical FAQ

What does the “01” in MC-4/11/01/400 signify?
The “01” designates the 1.5A current rating for this specific model. Other variants in the MC-4 family include “03” (3A), “10” (10A), “22” (22A), and “50” (50A). Always match the exact current rating to your motor’s requirements.

Can I use this drive with a standard PLC?
The MC-4 is designed for ELAU’s PacDrive ecosystem and communicates via proprietary serial real-time protocols over fiber optics. It is not designed to be driven by standard Modbus/Profibus PLCs directly. It requires an ELAU PacController or PacPC as the master.

Does this drive require manual tuning?
No. One of the key advantages of the MC-4 series is its auto-configuration. It reads the electronic nameplate inside ELAU SH-series motors and automatically sets the current, velocity, and position control loops.

Why is fiber optic communication used instead of copper?
In high-speed packaging and converting machinery, electromagnetic interference (EMI) from multiple drives and VFDs can corrupt copper communication signals. Fiber optics provide complete galvanic isolation and immunity to EMI, ensuring deterministic, jitter-free real-time motion control.

Why is this sold as new surplus?
This unit was pulled from sealed OEM overstock or an unfulfilled project before installation. We test it on our PacDrive test rigs to verify power stage and fiber communication integrity, but we aren’t replacing internal components. You are getting unused factory hardware with original manufacturing tolerances at a fraction of the active OEM list price.