KRC2
May 14, 2026

KRC2

Description

The KRC2 (KR C2, Edition 2005) is KUKA’s second‑generation, PC‑based robot controller, a compact and modular successor to the KRC1. It runs on Windows XP Embedded with KSS (KUKA System Software) V5.x / V6.x and is used for 6‑axis industrial robots (e.g., KR5, KR15, KR30, KR60, KR100) in welding, painting, assembly, and material handling.

2. Technical Specifications

  • Model: KRC2 (KR C2) Edition 2005

  • Controller Type: PC‑based, open architecture

  • Compatible Robots: KR5, KR15, KR30, KR60, KR100 (6‑axis)

  • System Software: KSS V5.x / V6.x (Windows XP Embedded)

  • Power Supply: 3×400/415/440/480 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 32 A

  • Standard Interfaces: Ethernet (10/100 Mbps), CAN, RS‑232, USB

  • Optional Fieldbuses: PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, PROFINET, EtherCAT

  • Drives: Integrated digital servo drives (DSE‑IBS‑C33) for axes 1–6

  • Teach Pendant: KCP2 (8.4” TFT, 6D joystick, IP65)

  • Protection Class: IP20 (cabinet), IP65 (KCP2 front)

  • Operating Temp: 0°C to +45°C (ambient)

  • Storage Temp: -20°C to +60°C

  • Dimensions (W×H×D): Approx. 600×800×350 mm

  • Weight: Approx. 100 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; dual‑channel ESC safety circuit cuts servo power.

  • Reset Button: Clears faults, resets ESC, restarts system.

  • Status LEDs: Power (green), Run (green blinking), Error (red), Servo Ready (yellow).

  • Control PC: Celeron 433 MHz, 64 MB RAM, 20 GB HDD, Windows XP Embedded.

  • MFC3 (Multi‑Function Card): Manages I/O, safety, and motion control.

  • DSE‑IBS‑C33: Digital servo drives for axes 1–6.

  • KVGA Card: Interface for KCP2 and external monitor.

  • I/O Module: 24 V DC digital inputs/outputs (standard 16/16, expandable).

  • Fieldbus Slots: PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, PROFINET options.

  • Floppy/CD‑ROM: For program backup/restore (optional).

3.2 Teach Pendant (KCP2)

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

  • 6D Joystick: Cartesian (X/Y/Z/A/B/C) or axis‑specific (A1–A6) jogging.

  • 3‑Position Enabling Switch (Rear):

    • 0: Disabled (no motion)

    • 1: Enabled (manual jog; must be held)

    • 2: Disabled (no motion)

  • Mode Switch:

    • T1: Manual low speed (≤250 mm/s; teaching)

    • T2: Manual high speed (verification)

    • AUT: Automatic mode (production)

    • EXT: External PLC control

  • Alphanumeric Keypad: Program editing, data input.

  • Function/Softkeys: Menu navigation, command selection (e.g., PTP, LIN, CIRC).

4. Safety Instructions

  • E‑Stop: Use only in emergencies; stops all servo motion via dual‑channel ESC.

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

  • Mode Rules:

    • T1: Reduced speed; use for teaching/testing.

    • T2: High speed; ensure workspace is clear.

    • AUT: No personnel in workspace; safety doors closed.

    • EXT: External PLC control; safety interlocks required.

  • ESC Safety Circuit: Dual‑channel; monitors E‑stop, enabling switch, safety doors.

  • No Modification: Never bypass or modify safety circuits (E‑Stop, ESC, 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; tighten connectors.

  4. KCP2 Connection: Connect KCP2 cable to KCP port; lock connector.

  5. Fieldbus Setup: Install PROFIBUS/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 XP Embedded and KSS V5.x/V6.x.

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

  4. Press Reset to clear faults and reset ESC.

  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 (Handwheel Override) 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 motion

    • LIN: Linear motion

    • CIRC: Circular motion

    • WAIT: Pause

    • IF/FOR: Logic control

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

6.4 Automatic Operation (AUT)

  1. Select program from list.

  2. Mode: AUT.

  3. Clear workspace; close safety doors.

  4. Press Start on KCP2 or external panel.

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

6.5 External Operation (EXT)

  1. Connect external PLC via fieldbus (PROFIBUS/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 USB/CD; test restore.

  • Annual: Replace battery (CMOS/encoder); calibrate KCP2 touchscreen.

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


Get a Quote