ABB CI860K01 Interface FOUNDATION Fieldbus HSE | AC 800M

Product Overview

The CI860K01 (3BSE032444R1) is a high-speed FOUNDATION Fieldbus (FF) High Speed Ethernet (HSE) communication interface designed for the ABB AC 800M controller family. This module serves as a high-performance bridge, enabling the AC 800M system to integrate seamlessly with FF HSE networks. Unlike lower-speed H1 fieldbuses, the HSE interface operates at 100 Mbit/s, providing the high-bandwidth backbone required for complex process control, device management, and high-speed data exchange between controllers and Linking Devices. The CI860K01 is a comprehensive kit that includes the CI860 communication module and the TP860 baseplate, ensuring a complete hardware solution for SIL-rated and standard industrial applications within the ABB 800xA ecosystem.

Technical Configuration

The CI860K01 architecture is designed for deterministic high-speed communication and modular reliability:

• FF HSE Integration: Supports the FOUNDATION Fieldbus HSE protocol over standard Ethernet (100 Mbit/s), acting as an HSE host for the AC 800M controller.

• Component Package: Includes the CI860 active module and the TP860 baseplate, which facilitates the physical mounting and electrical connection to the controller's communication bus.

• Redundancy Support: Can be configured in redundant pairs to ensure maximum system availability for safety-critical and high-availability process loops.

• System Connectivity: Specifically designed for the AC 800M hardware series, supporting firmware versions from 4.0 through to the latest 800xA 6.x systems.

• Protocol Versatility: Manages the communication between the control application and Linking Devices (which further connect to H1 fieldbus segments), allowing for transparent access to field device diagnostics and parameters.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

What is the role of the TP860 baseplate included in the CI860K01 kit?

The TP860 is the mounting base that stays fixed to the DIN rail. It handles the wiring and provides the backplane interface. This allows the CI860 module to be replaced or upgraded without disturbing the field wiring or the rest of the communication bus.

How many CI860 modules can be connected to a single AC 800M controller?

Typically, an AC 800M controller supports multiple communication modules, but the limit depends on the specific CPU model (e.g., PM864 vs. PM866) and the total power consumption on the CEX-bus. Consult the ABB AC 800M hardware manual for exact loading calculations.

Does the CI860K01 connect directly to FF H1 instruments?

No. The CI860K01 is an HSE (High Speed Ethernet) interface. To connect to H1 instruments (31.25 kbit/s), you must use an HSE/H1 Linking Device (such as the LD 800HSE) which connects the 100 Mbit/s HSE backbone to the H1 segments.

Engineering & Installation Guide

• CEX-Bus Integration: The CI860 module is installed on the left side of the AC 800M CPU on the CEX-Bus. Ensure that the bus connectors are properly aligned before snapping the module onto the TP860 baseplate to avoid pin damage.

• Network Topology: Use high-quality shielded Category 5e (or better) Ethernet cables for the HSE network. In industrial environments, ensure the Ethernet switches used for the HSE backbone support multicast traffic, as this is critical for FF HSE publisher/subscriber communication.

• Firmware Synchronization: When adding a CI860 to an existing system, verify that the module firmware matches the controller’s firmware version in the Control Builder M software. Mismatched firmware can lead to "Module Missing" or "Communication Error" states.

• Grounding: The TP860 baseplate must be mounted on a grounded metallic DIN rail. Proper grounding is essential for FOUNDATION Fieldbus stability, as it protects the high-speed data packets from electromagnetic interference (EMI).