ABB CI867

Description

Product Description

The ABB CI867 is a powerful and high-performance Ethernet communication interface module designed for the flagship ABB AC 800M programmable automation controller (PAC) within the System 800xA architecture. This module serves as the primary gateway for the controller to participate in modern, high-speed Ethernet-based networks, enabling seamless integration with supervisory systems, other controllers, and intelligent field devices. The CI867 is engineered to handle demanding data throughput and complex network topologies, making it essential for advanced control and information integration. Implementing the ABB CI867 is a strategic step in building a future-proof, networked industrial control system.

Product Parameters

• Manufacturer / Brand: ABB

• Product Type: Ethernet Communication Interface Module

• Model: CI867

• System Compatibility: ABB AC 800M Controller (e.g., PM861, PM864, PM891) in System 800xA.

• Mounting: Plugs directly into a dedicated communication slot on the AC 800M controller unit.

• Ethernet Standards: Supports 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit) Ethernet, IEEE 802.3 compliant.

• Primary Protocols: Native support for ABB’s reliable and deterministic Master Network (for controller-to-controller communication within 800xA) and standard TCP/IP.

• Additional Protocol Support: Can be configured to support MODBUS TCP/IP, OPC (as a server/client), and other industrial Ethernet protocols via application-specific firmware/software.

• Connectors: Typically features two or more RJ45 ports, allowing for network redundancy (ring or redundant star topologies).

• Redundancy Support: Integral to building redundant controller pairs (CI867 modules in both controllers synchronize via a direct fiber-optic link).

Advantages and Features

• High-Speed Deterministic Communication: The ABB CI867 provides the high-bandwidth, low-latency connection required for the AC 800M’s Master Network, ensuring precise synchronization between redundant controllers and predictable data exchange.

• Foundation for System 800xA Integration: This module is the critical link that allows the AC 800M to fully participate as a node in the comprehensive System 800xA extended automation environment, sharing data with the operator workplace, engineering station, and information management servers.

• Built-in Network Redundancy: With multiple ports and support for protocols like PRP (Parallel Redundancy Protocol) and RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol), the CI867 enables the design of highly available network architectures that eliminate single points of failure.

• Robust Security Features: Includes configurable firewall capabilities, VLAN support, and other IT security functions to help harden the control system against unauthorized access, aligning with modern industrial security standards (IEC 62443).

• Advanced Diagnostics: Offers extensive diagnostic information accessible both locally via LEDs and through the 800xA system, providing clear visibility into network health, connection status, and data traffic.

Application Cases in Application Fields

• Large-Scale Process Plants (Oil & Gas, Chemical): In a refinery, multiple AC 800M controllers with CI867 modules form a redundant, plant-wide control network, exchanging real-time data for complex unit coordination and sending information to the 800xA operator consoles for centralized monitoring.

• Power Generation: Used in a combined-cycle power plant to facilitate high-speed communication between the turbine control, balance-of-plant, and electrical control systems, enabling optimized plant-wide control strategies.

• Pulp & Paper Mills: Connects distributed AC 800M controllers managing different stages (digester, washer, dryer) via a high-performance Ethernet backbone, ensuring synchronized production and quality data aggregation.

• Marine and Offshore: On a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the CI867 modules enable reliable, redundant communication between safety, process, and vessel management systems over an integrated network.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Compared to standard Ethernet modules in other PLCs or generic industrial switches, the ABB CI867 operates at a different integration level:

• System-Centric vs. Device-Centric: Unlike a basic PLC Ethernet card, the ABB CI867 is an integral component of the System 800xA architecture. Its primary role is enabling the controller’s deep integration into a unified automation system, far beyond simple I/O scanning or Modbus data exchange.

• Deterministic Performance: While many controllers offer Ethernet/IP or Profinet modules, the CI867‘s Master Network protocol is optimized for deterministic, high-integrity controller-to-controller communication within ABB’s ecosystem, which is critical for large, coordinated processes.

• Redundancy Architecture: The seamless support for controller redundancy, including the dedicated synchronization link, is a more sophisticated and tightly integrated feature than the network-level redundancy often provided by competitors.

• IT/OT Convergence Enabler: With built-in security and IT-standard networking features, the CI867 is designed to bridge the OT and IT worlds more effectively than many traditional PLC communication modules.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Controller and Firmware Compatibility: Verify that the ABB CI867 module is compatible with your specific AC 800M CPU model (PM861, PM864, etc.) and that the controller firmware version supports the desired features of the CI867.

2. Define Network Architecture and Protocols: Clearly plan your network topology (redundant ring, star), required protocols (Master Network, Modbus TCP, OPC), and redundancy needs before specifying and configuring the module.

3. Software and License Requirements: Configuration of the CI867 is done within the 800xA System or Control Builder engineering environment. Ensure you have the correct software versions and any necessary application-specific licenses (e.g., for OPC server functionality).

4. Security Configuration: Do not leave the module with default security settings. Work with IT/OT security personnel to properly configure firewalls, VLAN tags, and access rules according to the plant’s security policy.

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