Danfoss 132B0254 VLT Control Panel LCP 21 Numeric for FC 280

The numeric local control panel for the VLT Midi Drive FC 280

132B0254 is the Danfoss VLT Control Panel LCP 21, numeric. The FC 280 Design Guide lists it in the options and accessories table as the numeric LCP, next to the graphical LCP 102 (130B1107). A numeric local control panel shows process values on a numeric display and gives local control of the drive with the Hand On, Off/Reset and Auto On keys, while parameter set-ups can be saved to the panel and copied to other drives.

Technical specifications

Using the LCP 21 with an FC 280

The FC 280 is delivered with the display position X when ordered without a panel, so the LCP 21 is ordered separately. Local operation uses the Hand On and Off/Reset keys, with local reference adjusted by the arrow keys; the keys are enabled or disabled in parameters 0-40, 0-42 and 0-44. Danfoss notes that the local reference forces open-loop configuration and is restored when the drive powers down. Parameter 0-50 LCP Copy saves the parameter set to the panel for safe keeping and transfers it to another FC 280. With the installation kit the panel can be mounted up to 3 m from the drive in a cabinet door. The same Design Guide table lists the neighbouring local control items: the graphical VLT Control Panel LCP 102 (130B1107), the graphical LCP adapter (132B0281), the LCP blind cover (132B0262), the LCP mounting kit without LCP (130B1117) and the VLT Memory Module MCM 102 (132B0359). Use the numeric LCP 21 when only process values and basic commissioning are needed.

Key features of the LCP 21

• Numeric display for reading process values such as output frequency, motor current or reference, and for viewing and changing parameter values.
• Hand On, Off/Reset and Auto On keys for switching between local and remote control and for resetting alarms.
• Navigation and arrow keys for moving through parameter groups and adjusting the local reference.
• Parameter copy function (parameter 0-50) to upload a complete set-up to the panel and download it to another FC 280.
• Detachable design: it can be mounted directly on the drive or in a cabinet door up to 3 m away with the remote mounting kit.
• Low weight of 0.08 kg, making it practical to keep as a spare or commissioning tool.

LCP 21 or graphical LCP 102?

Both panels are listed in the FC 280 Design Guide as options; the choice depends mainly on who will operate the drive and how much on-screen information is wanted. Check mounting and compatibility details in the Design Guide before ordering the graphical panel for an FC 280.

Typical uses on site

Commissioning several identical drives

When a project has multiple FC 280 drives running similar pumps or conveyors, the first drive can be configured and tested, its parameters copied to the LCP 21, and the panel moved to each of the other drives to download the same set-up. This saves time and reduces the risk of entry errors.

Backing up settings

Keeping a copy of a working configuration on a panel allows faster recovery if a drive is replaced. Label the panel or record which drive set-up it holds, and keep an electronic copy in the project files as well.

Door-mounted operator control

With the remote mounting kit, the panel sits on the cabinet door so operators can start, stop and reset the drive and read values without opening the enclosure. This keeps the cabinet closed, which helps against dust ingress and supports electrical safety practice.

Considerations for Oman and the GCC

FC 280 drives are widely used on conveyors, small pumps, fans and packaging machines in food, beverage and light industrial plants in the region. In dusty or hot locations, door mounting with the correct kit and gasket keeps the panel accessible while maintaining the enclosure’s protection. Display panels exposed to direct sunlight through windows or open doors should be shielded, as heat and UV can affect plastics and display readability over time.

What to include in an RFQ

• Ordering number 132B0254 and quantity.
• Whether the remote mounting kit 132B0102 (3 m cable) is needed for door mounting.
• The FC 280 drive types it will be used with, so compatibility can be confirmed.
• Delivery location and any documents needed with the shipment.

Handling and care of the panel

The LCP 21 is an electronic operator interface, so simple handling habits extend its service life. Disconnect or fit the panel with the drive in a safe state as described in the operating instructions, and avoid pulling on the cable when the remote mounting kit is used. Clean the keypad with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth rather than solvents, which can damage the membrane and display window. When a panel is kept as a spare or a commissioning tool, store it in its packaging in a dry place, away from heat and dust, and check after storage that the keys respond and the display is readable before taking it to site. If several panels hold different parameter sets, mark each one clearly so the wrong configuration is not downloaded to a drive by mistake.

Documents and quotation

The FC 280 Design Guide MG07B302 is linked on this page. For the matching drive range see the Danfoss FC 280 page or the AC drives category. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier in Muscat; confirm that the LCP 21 suits your drive type before ordering, as other VLT series use different panels.