What it is and where it fits
The Siemens 3RK7136-6SC00-0BC1 is an F-CM AS-i Safety ST module in the ET 200SP format — a safety-oriented communication module that sits on the AS-i network and talks PROFIsafe over the ET 200SP backplane bus. It's powered directly via AS-i, so no separate 24 V supply loop is needed on the module side. Safety rating is Category 4 per EN ISO 13849-1, Performance Level e, and SIL 3 per EN 62061 — the top end for machine safety circuits guarding hazardous motion, press brakes, or robotic cells. The module is a Type B safety device per IEC 61508-2, meaning its failure modes are well-characterized for systematic capability. Physical footprint: 20 mm wide, 58 mm deep, 73 mm tall — ET 200SP standard slice width, so it occupies one slot on the terminal module. IP20 rated, intended for enclosure installation, not washdown.
Key ratings and what they mean for fit
Category 4 / PL e / SIL 3 means this module can be used in the highest-risk safety functions up to and including those requiring redundant architecture with diagnostic coverage. It supports PROFIsafe protocol, so it communicates safety telegrams directly to a F-CPU over the backplane — no separate safety bus coupler needed. Powered via AS-i, with a maximum draw of 70 mA at 30 V (or 70 mA at 24 V with AS-i Power24V). The backplane bus supplies up to 30 mA. Total power loss is 2.1 W — modest, but worth accounting for in dense ET 200SP racks. Status and diagnostics are indicated by a row of LEDs: DIAG, STATUS, ERROR, CFG, PSF, TEACH, ADDR, PWR. That covers bus health, configuration errors, and AS-i address assignment without needing a handheld programmer.
Environmental and mounting constraints
Mounts by plugging onto an ET 200SP terminal module — no DIN-rail clip on the module itself; the terminal module carries the rail attachment. Horizontal mounting on the rail allows 0 to 60 °C operating ambient; vertical mounting derates to 0 to 50 °C. Storage and transport range is -40 to +70 °C. Vibration resistance per IEC 60068-2-6 covers 5 to 150 Hz with multiple sweep cycles. EMC immunity meets IEC 61326-3-1, and emitted interference is Class A per IEC 61000-6-4 — suitable for industrial environments but not residential. Electrostatic discharge withstands 6 kV contact / 8 kV air. Relative humidity up to 95 % at 25 °C during operation. Maximum installation altitude 2000 m above sea level.