ONE NEW Fanuc A02B-0281-C120 A02B0281C120 AO2B-O281-C12O

FANUC A02B-0281-C120 | Separate Type MDI Unit — CNC Lathe / Horizontal Layout / English / Small Key Format

Part Number: A02B-0281-C120

Manufacturer: FANUC Corporation (Japan)

Product Type: MDI Unit — Separate Type (Stand-Alone)

Series: A02B-0281 

The Operator Input Layer for FANUC Stand-Alone CNC Controls

The A02B-0281-C120 is the separate-type MDI (Manual Data Input) unit for FANUC i-series CNC controls in the stand-alone configuration — the physical keypad through which the machine operator and setup technician enter CNC programmes, modify parameters, jog axes, and manage machine functions.

FANUC i-series CNC controls divide into two physical configurations: LCD-mounted type, where the display and MDI are combined in one unit, and stand-alone type, where the CNC display is a separate unit and the MDI is a separate keypad. The A02B-0281-C120 is the stand-alone MDI — installed at the machine panel in a location suited to operator ergonomics, cabled back to the CNC control unit.

The "turning horizontal" designation defines the keyboard layout orientation for lathe (turning) machine tools. On a lathe, the operator panel typically faces the operator horizontally in front of the work zone — the key arrangement on this MDI is optimised for that orientation. It is distinct from machining centre (M-type) MDI variants which use different layout configurations.

Key Specifications

Suffix Variants — Confirm Before Ordering

The A02B-0281-C120 exists in several suffix configurations that determine the exact key set:

The suffix determines which keys are physically present and labelled on the keypad. Confirm the installed MDI's suffix from its own label before ordering — an incorrect suffix fits the CNC mechanically but presents different key labels and functions.

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a separate-type MDI and an LCD-mounted MDI?

On an LCD-mounted type i-series CNC, the display and MDI keypad are combined in one integrated unit. On a stand-alone type, the display and MDI are separate — the MDI (A02B-0281-C120) connects to the CNC control unit by cable and mounts independently. The machine's original configuration determines which type is correct; stand-alone MDI cannot replace an LCD-mounted type MDI, and vice versa.

Q2: Is the A02B-0281-C120 compatible with machining centres as well as lathes?

The -C120 is specifically configured for CNC lathes (turning) in horizontal layout. Machining centre MDI variants use different part numbers within the A02B-0281 series. Installing a turning-type MDI on a machining centre may cause key-function mismatches. Verify the machine type before ordering.

Q3: The MDI shows no response when keys are pressed. How is the fault diagnosed?

Check the cable connection between the MDI and the CNC control unit — a loose or damaged cable is the most common cause of MDI failure. Inspect the A20B-1008-0510 connector PCB included with the unit for signs of damage. If the cable and connector are confirmed good, the MDI keypad itself requires replacement.

Q4: Does the A02B-0281-C120 include the connector PCB?

Yes. The unit is supplied with the small connector PCB (A20B-1008-0510) that handles the interface between the MDI keypad and the CNC cable. Confirm the connector PCB is included and undamaged when inspecting a used or surplus unit.

Q5: What CNC series is compatible with the A02B-0281-C120?

The A02B-0281 MDI series is designed for FANUC i-series CNC controls in the stand-alone configuration — Series 16i, 18i, 21i, 0i, and related i-series models that use the separate MDI architecture. Compatibility depends on the specific CNC model and control panel configuration. Confirm against the machine's FANUC CNC model designation before ordering.