Foxboro P0973BP Redundant Power Supply Module (The MESH Control Network)

Product Overview

The Foxboro P0973BP is a high-reliability 156 Watt Redundant Power Supply (RPS) module specifically engineered for the Foxboro Evo™ and I/A Series® systems within The MESH Control Network architecture. Designed to eliminate the network switch as a single point of failure, this module operates in a parallel capacity with a switch’s internal power supply. In the event of an AC power loss or internal component failure, the P0973BP instantaneously supports the full load, ensuring that critical process control traffic continues to flow without interruption or network reconvergence.

System Architecture & Compatibility

The P0973BP is a modular component of the The MESH Control Network Ethernet Equipment catalog. It must be housed in a specialized Redundant Power Supply Chassis (P0973BM or P0973BN) and is verified to support a wide range of Foxboro managed switches:

• A4-Series Switches: P0973JM (24-Port Copper), P0973JN (24-Port Fiber), and P0973JP (8-Port Combo).

• B-Series & C-Series: P0973LK and P0973KJ high-performance Gigabit switches.

• Chassis Options: * P0973BN: Accommodates 2 RPS modules for up to 2 switches.

• P0973BM: Accommodates up to 8 RPS modules for centralized high-density power redundancy.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

Why is parallel capacity important for The MESH network?

Unlike "cold standby" power supplies that require a startup time, the P0973BP works in parallel. This ensures there is no "switch-over" time. For The MESH Control Network, this prevents the Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) from having to re-converge due to a momentary switch power drop, maintaining 100% uptime for safety-critical logic.

What is the role of the RPS Chassis (P0973BM/BN)?

The P0973BP module does not have built-in AC electronics or power cords. The chassis provides the structural housing and the common AC backplane. This modularity allows an engineer to replace a single power module while the other switches in the same chassis remain powered and operational.

How does the G1 Contamination rating affect installation?

The Class G1 (Mild) rating indicates the module is designed for standard industrial control rooms. If the equipment is being installed in a more corrosive environment (e.g., near chemical processing units with high H2S levels), the module should be housed in a purged or environmentally controlled enclosure.

Field Engineering & Installation Guide

• Power Source Redundancy: For maximum availability, connect the RPS chassis to a different AC branch circuit or UPS than the primary internal power supply of the switches.

• Module Hot-Swapping: The P0973BP is hot-swappable. If a module failure is indicated, it can be pulled from the chassis and replaced without disturbing the network configuration or the power state of the connected switch.

• Cabling Logic: Ensure the RPS cable is securely fastened to the DC input of the switch. Periodic inspections of the cable seating are recommended in environments subject to high vibration.

Engineering Advantages

The P0973BP is a fundamental component for achieving high-availability targets in Foxboro Evo and I/A Series installations. By utilizing the The MESH-certified power infrastructure, plant operators ensure full regulatory compliance and safety certification (UL, CSA, IEC 60950). For B2B procurement, sourcing original P0973BP modules guarantees that your network infrastructure aligns with the PSS 31H-7C3 B4 standard, providing the long-term reliability required for the world's most critical process industries.