New A02B-0279-B502 Fanuc 0i-TA Series System Module CNC Controller

FANUC A02B-0279-B502 | Series 0i-TA CNC System Module — Lathe Control Unit for Turning Centres

Part Number: A02B-0279-B502

Manufacturer: FANUC Ltd. (Japan)

Product Type: CNC System Module — Complete Control Unit

CNC Series: FANUC Series 0i-TA

Application: CNC turning centres / CNC lathes 

Turning Centre Control, Compact and Complete

The A02B-0279-B502 is the complete system module for the FANUC Series 0i-TA CNC — the controller variant within the 0i family purpose-built for CNC turning centres and lathes. As an integrated unit, it houses the main processing board, the LCD/MDI operator interface, and the I/O interfaces in one assembly. Install it in the machine cabinet, connect to the servo drives and I/O, and the turning centre's CNC is operational.

The Series 0i-TA supports up to 4 controlled axes with 2-axis simultaneous interpolation — the standard for single-turret CNC lathes controlling X and Z axes with a C or Y axis option. It runs all standard FANUC turning cycles natively: threading (G32, G92, G76), canned turning cycles (G70–G76), and pattern repeating cycles that simplify lathe part programming.

Within the FANUC 0i platform, the TA variant is specifically for turning (lathes), while the MA variant serves milling machines. The A02B-0279-B502 (0i-TA) and A02B-0280-B502 (0i-MA) are the respective system modules — they are not interchangeable between lathe and milling applications.

Key Specifications

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between the 0i-TA (A02B-0279-B502) and 0i-TB variants?

Both are turning centre CNC controllers within the FANUC 0i family. The 0i-TB is the later version with expanded axis support, additional software functions, and improved hardware. The A02B-0279-B502 (0i-TA) is the earlier generation — confirmed by the -0279 base number. Both run turning-specific FANUC G-code; the TB offers more capability in multi-axis and multi-turret configurations.

Q2: Software is not included with the A02B-0279-B502. What needs to be loaded before the machine runs?

CNC system software, machine parameters, and the PMC ladder program must all be loaded before operation. The system software version is loaded via PCMCIA/CF card using the BOOT screen. Machine parameters (from MTB documentation or backup) and the PMC program must be restored from backup files or entered from documentation.

Q3: Can the A02B-0279-B502 replace an existing 0i-TB unit in a lathe?

The 0i-TA and 0i-TB use different hardware generations. Direct substitution may cause software incompatibilities, particularly if the machine uses features or parameters specific to the TB hardware. Confirm the machine's original CNC series with the MTB before selecting a replacement. Replacing like-for-like (TA for TA) is always the lowest-risk approach.

Q4: The machine uses FANUC Alpha servo amplifiers. Is the A02B-0279-B502 compatible?

Yes. The Series 0i-TA is designed for use with FANUC's Alpha series servo and spindle amplifiers. The servo interface on the 0i-TA connects to FANUC Alpha servo drives via I/O Link or direct connection, depending on the drive generation. Confirm the drive interface type (Alpha, Alpha i, or Beta series) matches the CNC's servo interface parameters.

Q5: What is the CNC's expected service life after installation?

FANUC Series 0i systems are known for long service life in industrial CNC applications. FANUC typically supports 0i-series hardware with spare parts for a minimum of 10 years from the end of production. In practice, 0i-series machines installed in the late 1990s and early 2000s remain in production at many facilities today. Proactive spare parts stocking (key boards, LCD, power supply) is recommended for machines intended for long-term operation.