Banner SC26-2 Configurable Safety Controller, 26 I/O

The Banner SC26-2 is a configurable safety controller for machines that combine many safety devices, such as emergency stops, gate switches, light curtains, scanners, safety mats and two-hand controls. Every base controller provides 18 safety inputs, 8 convertible safety I/O and two solid-state safety output pairs, and the Ethernet and display versions add network access and on-board diagnostics.

The SC26-2 is the non-expandable member of the family; the XS26-2 is the expandable version. Seven Star LLC, an independent supplier in Muscat, quotes the exact Banner model code against the product manual.

Technical specifications

Model and option key

The manual lists SC26-2 without display or Ethernet, SC26-2d with an LCD display, SC26-2e with Ethernet and SC26-2de with both. The expandable XS26-2 family follows the same suffix logic, and the XS26-ISDd base controller adds 8 In-Series Diagnostic channels. The display shows fault messages and status for troubleshooting without a PC, and the Ethernet models allow configuration and live view over the network.

Safety functions and integration

Banner describes the family for applications where three or more safety relays would otherwise be used. The configuration software offers function blocks for muting, on and off delays, two-hand control and safety mat monitoring, and a ladder and wiring view. Industrial Ethernet data is available over EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP and PROFINET, so a PLC can read status and fault codes. A tag export feature simplifies PLC setup.

Selection and what to confirm

Choose SC26-2 where the 26 base terminals are enough, and XS26-2 where inputs or outputs must grow beyond that. See the PLC and I/O category and the existing Pilz PNOZmulti page for alternatives. Please confirm before ordering: model suffix (d, e, de), expandability, the number of devices, output current needs (0.5 A solid-state; relay modules for higher loads), Ethernet protocol and mounting enclosure.

Key features at a glance

• 26 configurable terminals: 18 dedicated safety inputs plus 8 convertible terminals that can be used as inputs or outputs, so one controller can handle a mixed cell of E-stops, interlocks and presence-sensing devices.
• Two solid-state safety output pairs: each output rated 0.5 A at 24 V DC, suitable for driving safety contactor coils or safety valves directly.
• Highest machine safety level: Category 4, PL e and SIL CL 3, with a 20-year proof test interval.
• Software-based logic: function blocks for muting, delays, two-hand control and safety mats replace hard-wired relay logic.
• Diagnostics: display versions show faults locally, and Ethernet versions send status to the PLC or HMI.

Replacing hard-wired safety relays

On a machine with several guarded zones, each safety function is traditionally built with its own safety relay, and the interaction between zones is hard-wired. With the SC26-2 the same functions are configured in software. Changes to the safety logic, such as adding a gate or changing a stop category delay, are made in the configuration instead of rewiring the panel. The configuration can be documented and printed from the software, which helps with validation records and later modifications. Panel space and wiring time are also reduced because one 24 V DC device replaces several relay modules.

Planning the I/O count

Dual-channel devices such as emergency stop buttons and gate switches usually use two input terminals each, while OSSD devices such as light curtains also use two. Count the terminals required by all devices, add test outputs where needed, and leave some spare capacity. If the total approaches 26 terminals or more output pairs are needed, select the expandable XS26-2 instead, which accepts up to eight expansion modules.

Installation in GCC conditions

The controller is rated for 0 to +55°C and up to 90 % relative humidity at +50°C, non-condensing, with IP20 protection. In practice this means it should be installed in an IP54 or better control enclosure, as Banner specifies. In factories in Oman and the wider GCC, panels located on the shop floor without air-conditioning can approach or exceed +55°C in summer, so enclosure cooling should be considered. In coastal plants where condensation can occur when air-conditioned panels are opened, anti-condensation heaters or sealed enclosures help keep within the non-condensing limit. Dust from cement, food and packaging lines should be kept out with gaskets and filtered fans.

Typical applications

• Packaging machines and palletisers with several guard doors and light curtains
• Robot cells with muting of light curtains for material entry
• Presses and forming machines with two-hand control stations
• Conveyor systems with distributed emergency stop buttons
• Process skids where safety status must be visible on the plant network

What to include in your RFQ

State the required model (SC26-2, SC26-2d, SC26-2e or SC26-2de, or an XS26-2 variant), quantity, the list of safety devices to be connected, the preferred Ethernet protocol, terminal type (screw or clamp) and whether expansion modules or relay output modules are needed.

Documents and quotation

The attached file is an unaltered excerpt of the official XS/SC26 and SC10-2 Safety Controllers Product Manual (p/n 174868 Rev. ZAA). The full manual is about 14 MB and 392 pages, so it is not hosted whole. Seven Star LLC supplies the exact model code you specify and confirms availability and lead time in the quotation. Send the model code, quantity and delivery location to our team and we will respond with a price.