SIEMENS 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0 – Synchronization Submodule for Redundant CPU | SIMATIC S7-400H
Engineering Background
The SIMATIC S7-400H is Siemens’ flagship high-availability PLC platform, engineered for process industries where unplanned downtime carries severe operational and safety consequences. At the core of its redundancy architecture is the synchronization submodule — the hardware link that keeps two mirrored CPUs in perfect lockstep.
Product Positioning
The 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0 is the dedicated synchronization submodule (sync submodule) for S7-400H redundant CPU pairs. It installs directly into the CPU module and provides the high-speed fiber-optic synchronization channel between the active and standby CPUs, enabling bumpless switchover in the event of a fault. This component is mandatory for any S7-400H redundant configuration.
Complete Technical Specifications
- Part Number / SKU: 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0
- Product Family: SIMATIC S7-400H
- Module Type: Synchronization Submodule (Sync Submodule)
- Compatible CPUs: S7-400H redundant CPU pairs (e.g., CPU 414-4H, CPU 416-4H, CPU 417-4H)
- Synchronization Interface: Fiber-optic (2 channels per CPU pair)
- Max Sync Cable Length: Up to 10 m (standard fiber); extended distances with appropriate fiber
- Synchronization Cycle: Synchronized to CPU cycle time
- Redundancy Mode: Hot-standby (1-of-2 redundancy)
- Switchover Time: < 1 CPU cycle (bumpless)
- Supply Voltage: Powered via CPU backplane (no external supply required)
- Operating Temperature: 0 °C to +60 °C
- Storage Temperature: -40 °C to +70 °C
- Relative Humidity: 10% to 95% (non-condensing)
- Degree of Protection: IP20
- Dimensions (W × H × D): Per S7-400 submodule form factor
- Weight: Approx. 1,200 g (packaged)
- Certifications: CE, UL, cULus, ATEX (zone 2), IECEx
- MLFB / Order Number: 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0
Proven Application Environments
- Oil & gas upstream/downstream process control (SIL-rated loops)
- Chemical and petrochemical continuous process plants
- Power generation and grid substation automation
- Water treatment and municipal utility SCADA systems
- Pharmaceutical batch processing (FDA 21 CFR Part 11 environments)
- Automotive body-in-white and powertrain assembly lines
- Steel and metals rolling mill drive coordination
- Airport and railway infrastructure control systems
Engineering Advantages
- Zero-downtime switchover: Fiber-optic sync channel ensures the standby CPU mirrors the active CPU state every scan cycle, enabling sub-cycle bumpless failover with no process interruption.
- Electrical isolation: Fiber-optic medium eliminates ground loops and EMI coupling between redundant racks, critical in high-noise industrial environments.
- Scalable redundancy distance: Fiber medium supports rack separation up to several hundred meters with appropriate fiber type, enabling geographically separated redundant installations.
- Plug-in submodule design: Installs directly into the CPU without tools; no additional rack slot consumed.
- Diagnostics integration: Sync status and fault events are fully visible in STEP 7 / TIA Portal diagnostics buffer and SIMATIC Manager.
- Proven field reliability: Deployed globally in safety-critical installations for over two decades.
System Architecture & Signal Flow
In an S7-400H redundant system, two identical CPUs reside in separate racks (H-racks). Each CPU is fitted with one 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0 sync submodule. A fiber-optic cable connects the two submodules, forming the synchronization bus. During normal operation, the active CPU executes the user program and transmits its process image and internal data state to the standby CPU via this sync link every cycle. The standby CPU continuously validates its own state against the received data. Upon detection of a fault in the active CPU, the standby assumes control within one CPU cycle — transparent to the connected I/O and field devices. The sync submodule also monitors link integrity and reports fiber break or submodule faults to the CPU diagnostics system.
Sourcing & Quality Verification
- All units sourced from authorized Siemens distribution channels or verified industrial surplus with full traceability.
- Each module undergoes incoming inspection: visual check, label verification (MLFB, date code, firmware revision), and functional continuity test.
- Firmware version and hardware revision documented and disclosed prior to shipment.
- Original Siemens packaging preserved where available; repackaged units clearly identified.
- Certificate of conformity and test report available upon request for project documentation.
Procurement Process
- Step 1: Confirm compatibility — verify your S7-400H CPU model and existing sync submodule revision with your project engineer.
- Step 2: Request a formal quotation via support@konmask.com or place order directly on Konmask.com.
- Step 3: Lead time confirmation — in-stock units ship within 1–3 business days; sourced units quoted with ETA.
- Step 4: Shipping — DHL / FedEx / UPS express worldwide; export documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, COO) included.
- Step 5: Incoming inspection support — our technical team can assist with acceptance testing guidance upon receipt.
Technical FAQ
Q: Can I use 6ES7960-1AA00-0XA0 with a standard (non-H) S7-400 CPU?
A: No. The sync submodule is exclusively designed for S7-400H redundant CPU pairs. Standard S7-400 CPUs do not have the submodule slot or redundancy firmware required.
Q: How many sync submodules are required per redundant system?
A: Two — one per CPU in the redundant pair. Both CPUs must be fitted with matching sync submodules.
Q: What fiber cable type is required?
A: Siemens specifies plastic optical fiber (POF) for distances up to 10 m, or glass fiber (GOF) for longer distances. Refer to the S7-400H system manual (A5E00068271) for cable specifications.
Q: Is this module compatible with TIA Portal?
A: Yes. S7-400H systems with this sync submodule are fully supported in TIA Portal V13 SP2 and later, as well as STEP 7 V5.x.
Q: What is the warranty?
A: Konmask.com provides a 12-month warranty on all verified units. Extended warranty and on-site support contracts available upon request.
© 2026 Konmask.com. All rights reserved.
Original Source: https://Konmask.com
Contact: support@konmask.com | +0086 19859288691
