KRC1
May 14, 2026

KRC1

The KRC1 is KUKA’s first-generation PC-based robot controller, released in the late 1990s, for 6-axis industrial robots (e.g., KR15, KR30, KR45, KR60). It uses Windows 95 as the base OS and runs KSS (KUKA System Software) V4.x. Modular and compact, it supports standalone and networked operation with fieldbus integration.

Description

KRC1.jpg

The KRC1 is KUKA’s first-generation PC-based robot controller, released in the late 1990s, for 6-axis industrial robots (e.g., KR15, KR30, KR45, KR60). It uses Windows 95 as the base OS and runs KSS (KUKA System Software) V4.x. Modular and compact, it supports standalone and networked operation with fieldbus integration.

2. Technical Specifications

  • Model: KRC1 (KR C1)

  • Controller Type: PC-based, open architecture

  • Compatible Robots: KR15, KR30, KR45, KR60, etc. (6-axis)

  • System Software: KSS V4.x (Windows 95)

  • Power Supply: 3×400/415/440/480/500/550 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 25 A

  • Standard Interfaces: CAN/DeviceNet, Ethernet, RS-232

  • Optional Fieldbuses: INTERBUS-S, FIPIO

  • Drives: Integrated servo drives for axes 1–6

  • Teach Pendant: KCP1 (8.4” TFT, 6D joystick)

  • Protection Class: IP20 (cabinet), IP65 (KCP1 front)

  • Operating Temp: 0°C to +45°C

  • Storage Temp: -20°C to +60°C

  • Dimensions (W×H×D): Approx. 600×800×300 mm

  • Weight: Approx. 80 kg

3. Main Components & Controls

3.1 Control Cabinet

  • Main Power Switch: 3-phase AC input ON/OFF.

  • Emergency Stop (E-Stop): Red mushroom button; cuts power to servo drives.

  • Reset Button: Clears faults and restarts system.

  • Status LEDs: Power, Run, Error, Servo Ready.

  • Drives Module: Amplifiers for axes 1–6.

  • I/O Module: Digital/analog inputs/outputs (24 V DC).

  • Fieldbus Slots: CAN/DeviceNet, Ethernet, optional INTERBUS-S.

  • Floppy/CD-ROM: For program backup/restore.

3.2 Teach Pendant (KCP1)

  • 8.4” TFT Color Display: 640×480 resolution.

  • 6D Joystick: Cartesian/axis jogging.

  • 3-Position Enabling Switch (Rear):

    • 0: Disabled

    • 1: Enabled (manual jog)

    • 2: Disabled

  • Mode Switch: T1 (≤250 mm/s), T2 (high speed), AUT (automatic), EXT (external).

  • Alphanumeric Keypad: Program editing, data input.

  • Function Keys: Menu navigation, command selection.

4. Safety Instructions

  • E-Stop: Use only in emergencies; stops all servo motion.

  • Enabling Switch: Must be held in Position 1 for manual jog; robot stops if released.

  • Mode Rules:

    • T1: Low speed for teaching/testing.

    • T2: High speed; clear workspace.

    • AUT: No personnel in workspace.

    • EXT: External PLC control; safety interlocks required.

  • No Modification: Never bypass safety circuits (E-Stop, enabling switch).

  • Work Envelope: Stay clear of robot’s full range of motion.

5. Installation & Connection

  1. Positioning: Place cabinet on flat, level floor; allow 100 mm clearance for ventilation.

  2. Power Connection: Connect 3-phase AC to X1; ensure correct voltage (400 V AC standard).

  3. Motor Cables: Connect axes 1–6 motors to X20.

  4. KCP1 Connection: Connect KCP1 cable to KCP port; tighten connector.

  5. Fieldbus Setup: Install CAN/DeviceNet/Ethernet cables; configure addresses.

  6. I/O Wiring: Connect 24 V DC I/O to terminal blocks; check polarity.

  7. Grounding: Earth cabinet and robot base per local codes.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Power-Up

  1. Turn main power switch ON.

  2. System boots Windows 95 and KSS V4.x.

  3. Check LEDs: Power ON, Run blinking, Error OFF.

  4. Press Reset to clear faults.

  5. Switch to T1 mode; hold enabling switch (Position 1).

  6. Jog robot to verify motion.

6.2 Manual Jogging (T1/T2)

  1. Mode: T1 (low speed) or T2 (high speed).

  2. Hold enabling switch in Position 1.

  3. Joystick:

    • Axis Mode: Move individual joints (A1–A6).

    • Cartesian Mode: Move TCP in X/Y/Z; rotate A/B/C.

  4. Adjust speed with HOV keys (0–100%).

6.3 Programming (T1)

  1. T1 mode; enable switch held.

  2. Jog to desired position; press Record to store.

  3. Add commands: PTP (point-to-point), LIN (linear), CIRC (circular), WAIT, IF, FOR.

  4. Name program; save to hard disk or floppy.

6.4 Automatic Operation (AUT)

  1. Select program from list.

  2. Mode: AUT.

  3. Clear workspace; close safety doors.

  4. Press Start on KCP1 or external panel.

  5. Press Stop to pause; E-Stop for emergency.

6.5 External Operation (EXT)

  1. Connect external PLC via fieldbus (CAN/DeviceNet/Ethernet).

  2. Configure I/O signals for Start/Stop, Fault Reset, Program Select.

  3. Mode: EXT; ensure safety interlocks are closed.

  4. Control robot via PLC commands.

7. Maintenance

  • Daily: Check E-Stop function; inspect cables for damage.

  • Weekly: Clean cabinet filters; verify fan operation.

  • Monthly: Check servo drive temperatures; tighten connectors.

  • Quarterly: Backup programs to floppy/CD; test restore.

  • Annual: Replace battery (CMOS/encoder); calibrate KCP1 touchscreen.

  • Environment: Keep cabinet dry; avoid dust and vibration.


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