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How to connect a PXU process control to Crimson 2.1

06 Jun 2025

 

 

APPLICABLE PRODUCTS

ALL PXU series process controls that support MODBUS 485 rear terminal connection. 

 

PRE-REQUISITES

  • The PXU control you have must support the RS485 option.
  • You also will need a USB to RS485 adaptor cable. Red Lion suggests using our PGUSB485 cable.
  • Confirm COM port used by Windows in device manager for adaptor cable you are using.
  • Verify the firmware version of your PXU process control.
  • Copy of our Crimson 2.1 configuration software installed on your computer.
  • Crimson 2.1 Download Link 

Instructions for connecting with Crimson 2.1

1. Once you launch Crimson 2.1, select new under the FILE tab 

 

Capture 2.1.PNG

 

In most cases, your PXU process control will be running version 1.5+ firmware. This can be found in two locations.  

  • On the side case decal of the unit.
  • During power on boot-up self-test. The screen will briefly display the loaded firmware version.

2. Select PXU PID controllers on the left and your PXU model on the right. Click OK.

You will have a programming home screen like below

 

2.1.PNG

 

3. Under the LINK tab, select options, ensure the com port selected matches the com port assigned by Windows in device manager under port/ com settings for your USB to RS485 adaptor.  COM port 5 is used in the below example, set as required. Click Ok. 

 

Capture 3.PNG

 

4. Under the LINK tab, select extract.  Then Ok. Crimson should connect to the PXU and you will be back at the main programming home screen. Each program tab has the settings available for that function menu.  Select the settings required for your application. Refer to the PXU product manual for more setting information if required.

5. Under the FILE tab, save your program settings before downloading to the PXU. 

6. Under the LINK tab, select update or send to download your program settings to the PXU control. 

 

Important Notes:

  • Crimson 2.1 requires that the unit address and baud rate be left factory defaults.  This can be changed manually via menu 7-SC and the front keypad if your application requires it. Reference the PXU product manual if  required.
  • The Update function under the LINK ab will download only the setting changes made to the default program.  
  • The Send function under the LINK tab will download the entire file back to the PXU control.

 

ADDITIONAL INFO

Link to PXU Product Manual

PXU Product Manual 

Link to Crimson 2.1 Download

 Crimson Download Link 

Link to PGUSB485 Product Manual 

PGUSB Product Manual 

 

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