The 6SL3520-0XN00-3AA0 is the I/O Control variant of the SINAMICS G115D distributed drive platform — the entry-level 0.37 kW model in the FSA frame. With 2.6 A peak output, it powers light conveyor sections with hardwired terminal control — no fieldbus, no network configuration, just direct I/O for simple motor starting and stopping.

What makes the I/O Control variant different from PROFINET and AS-Interface?

The three G115D electronic module variants share identical power hardware — the difference is in how the drive receives commands. The I/O Control variant (AA0 suffix) uses 4 programmable digital inputs and 2 configurable digital I/O channels for direct hardwired control. There is no fieldbus — the drive starts and stops on terminal signals. This suits standalone conveyor sections, replacement of simple contactor-controlled motors, or installations where adding a network node adds complexity without benefit. The PROFINET variant (AB0) adds Ethernet communication and PROFIsafe. The AS-Interface variant (AF0) uses the AS-i two-wire bus for networked distributed control.

What motors can the G115D XN00 drive at 0.37 kW?

The drive is preconfigured for SIMOGEAR 2KJ8 geared motors in frame sizes 71–132, available in IE3 asynchronous or IE4 synchronous reluctance variants. At 0.37 kW, it pairs with smaller geared motors for light-duty accumulation conveyors, diverter sections, or packaging line infeed/outfeed rollers. The integrated brake control supports 180 V DC electromechanical brakes up to 0.8 A or direct 380–480 V AC brake coils.

What safety functions are available on the I/O Control variant?

Safe Torque Off (STO) is activated via the fail-safe digital inputs (F-DI) — two of the drive's four digital inputs can be configured as F-DI channels. The drive achieves SIL 2 (IEC 61508) and PL d Cat 3 (EN ISO 13849-1). PROFIsafe is not available on this variant — requiring the PROFINET communication layer present only on the AB0 variant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this drive operate without a control cabinet?

Yes. The G115D is designed for cabinet-free, wall-mounted installation directly on the machine frame. IP65 protection eliminates the need for a separate enclosure. The FSA frame measures 380 × 216 × 129 mm with natural convection cooling.

Can the I/O Control variant be upgraded to fieldbus later?

No. The communication interface is determined by the electronic module hardware — AA0 (I/O Control), AB0 (PROFINET), and AF0 (AS-Interface) are distinct products. To add fieldbus capability, the drive unit must be replaced.

Is the I/O Control variant compatible with SIMATIC controllers?

Yes. The digital inputs use PNP logic and are SIMATIC-compatible. The drive can be controlled by a SIMATIC PLC via digital outputs — using the drive's terminal I/O for start/stop, direction, and speed setpoint selection without a fieldbus connection.