What Makes the TM258LF42DR a Reliable Choice for Demanding Machine Control?
How do you maintain precise control when a machine demands fast counting, mixed I/O, and deterministic communication? The Schneider Electric TM258LF42DR answers that challenge as a compact logic controller in the Modicon M258 series. It combines a dual-core ARM Cortex-A8 processor with 42 embedded I/O points. Consequently, this controller handles both program execution and communication tasks in parallel. The result is consistent scan performance for complex automation sequences.

TM258LF42DR I/O Architecture and Processing Power
The TM258LF42DR provides 26 digital inputs, including 18 regular 24 Vdc inputs and 8 fast high-speed counter inputs rated at 100 kHz. Additionally, it offers 16 digital outputs: 4 fast transistor outputs at 0.1 A and 12 relay outputs at 2 A. This mixed output configuration allows direct control of both high-speed signals and higher-current loads. Furthermore, 8 high-speed counters and 4 fast reflex outputs support precise positioning and registration tasks. The dual-core processor executes 45,000+ Boolean instructions per millisecond, with a scan speed of 0.022 µs per Boolean instruction. Therefore, the controller delivers deterministic response for time-critical applications.
Key Technical Specifications
- Supply voltage: 24 V DC (19.2...28.8 V)
- Power consumption: 17.22 W
- Digital inputs: 26 (18 regular 24 Vdc + 8 fast HSC 100 kHz)
- Digital outputs: 16 (4 fast transistor 0.1 A + 12 relay 2 A)
- High-speed counters: 8 × 100 kHz
- Program memory: 128 K instructions
- Data memory: 64 MB RAM; 128 MB Flash
- Operating temperature: 0...+55 °C (0...+60 °C with derating)
- Protection rating: IP20
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 99 × 265 × 75 mm

Communication and Integration Capabilities
The TM258LF42DR includes one Ethernet RJ45 port, one CANopen SUB-D9 port, one RS-485 serial link, and one USB-B mini programming port. Consequently, it supports Modbus TCP, CANopen master, and Modbus RTU/ASCII protocols. For expanded functionality, two free PCI slots accept optional communication or function modules. Additionally, the controller supports up to seven TM5/TM2 expansion modules, scaling to a maximum of 2400 I/O. This flexibility makes the TM258LF42DR suitable for applications ranging from standalone machines to distributed control systems.
Programming and Software Environment
Engineers program the TM258LF42DR using SoMachine or EcoStruxure Machine Expert software. These environments provide a unified platform for logic development, configuration, and diagnostics. Because the controller uses a dual-core architecture, communication tasks run independently from program execution. Therefore, network polling does not degrade scan performance. This separation ensures precise, repeatable control even under heavy communication loads.
Typical Applications for the TM258LF42DR
This controller excels in packaging machinery, material handling, and assembly systems. Its fast counter inputs and reflex outputs handle registration and cut-to-length tasks. Meanwhile, the mixed relay and transistor outputs directly drive solenoids, contactors, and indicator lamps. In addition, the embedded Ethernet port enables seamless integration with supervisory systems and HMIs. For applications requiring precise motion coordination, the CANopen master port synchronizes drives and remote I/O.
Ordering and Support
The Schneider Electric TM258LF42DR is in stock and ready to ship from AutoDCSTech. For engineering-grade precision in your automation project, contact AutoDCSTech with your exact requirements for precise matching.
Availability & Condition at AutoDCSTech
| Part Number | TM258LF42DR |
|---|---|
| Availability | In Stock |
| Condition | New |
| Warranty | One Year |
| Origin | France |
