Description
Product Description
The ABB CI868K01-EA is a versatile and high-performance communication interface module designed for the ABB AC 800M controller family, which serves as the core for their distributed control systems (DCS) and high-end PLC applications. This module functions as a dedicated PROFIBUS DP-V1 Master/Controller, enabling seamless and deterministic integration of PROFIBUS field device networks into the System 800xA or standalone AC 800M environment. The ABB CI868K01-EA acts as a critical gateway, allowing the central controller to exchange data with a vast array of sensors, actuators, drives, and remote I/O stations that use the PROFIBUS DP protocol. Its robust design ensures reliable communication in industrial environments. For detailed technical specifications, configuration manuals, and GSD files, please visit the official product page for the ABB CI868K01-EA. The ABB CI868K01-EA is an essential component for modernizing or expanding control systems that rely on the ubiquitous PROFIBUS industrial network standard.
Product Parameters
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Product Type: PROFIBUS DP Master Communication Interface.
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Ordering Code: CI868K01-EA.
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Protocol: Implements PROFIBUS DP-V1 (Decentralized Periphery) as a Master (Class 1) controller.
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Communication Speed: Supports the full range of PROFIBUS DP baud rates from 9.6 kbit/s up to 12 Mbit/s, auto-configurable.
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Connector: Features a standard 9-pin D-sub female connector for the PROFIBUS network.
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Number of Devices: Capable of managing a configurable number of PROFIBUS DP slaves (typically up to 125, limited by network loading and configuration).
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I/O Data Size: Supports a substantial amount of input and output process data exchange with the connected slaves.
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Integration: Mounts on a standard AC 800M baseplate (e.g., for a PM861 or PM864 processor) and is configured directly within the Control Builder M engineering tool.
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LED Indicators: Provides status LEDs for power, module status, and PROFIBUS network activity/faults.
Advantages and Features
The primary advantage of the ABB CI868K01-EA is its native, high-performance integration of PROFIBUS DP networking into the AC 800M control architecture. It eliminates the need for external gateways, reducing complexity, latency, and potential failure points. The module supports PROFIBUS DP-V1, which includes advanced features like acyclic data communication for parameterization and diagnostics, enhancing device management capabilities. Configuration is streamlined within ABB’s Control Builder M, allowing for centralized engineering of both the controller logic and the entire PROFIBUS network topology from a single environment. The ABB CI868K01-EA is designed for high reliability with strong diagnostics, making network troubleshooting efficient and minimizing downtime in continuous process operations.
Application Cases in Various Fields
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Process Industries (Chemical, Pharma): Integrating extensive fields of PROFIBUS DP-enabled instruments (flow meters, level transmitters, valve positioners) and remote I/O racks from various vendors into a unified AC 800M DCS.
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Manufacturing & Machine Control: Connecting AC 800M controllers to PROFIBUS-based motor drives, decentralized peripheral (ET200) stations, and robotic controllers in automated production lines.
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Water & Wastewater: Networking pump variable frequency drives (VFDs), sludge dewatering equipment, and analyzer systems that communicate via PROFIBUS DP to a central SCADA/control system based on AC 800M.
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Power Generation: Linking boiler and turbine auxiliary systems, such as burner management I/O or compressor controls, to the main plant DCS via the reliable ABB CI868K01-EA PROFIBUS master link.
Comparison with Competing Products
Compared to using a generic third-party PROFIBUS master gateway connected via a serial or Ethernet link to a controller, the ABB CI868K01-EA offers superior integration, performance, and engineering simplicity. It provides faster, deterministic data exchange as it communicates directly over the controller’s backplane. When compared to communication modules from other major DCS/PLC vendors (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) for their respective platforms, the CI868K01-EA is ABB’s dedicated solution for offering best-in-class PROFIBUS DP master functionality within the AC 800M ecosystem. Its key strength is the seamless experience within Control Builder M versus managing a separate network configuration tool.
Selection Suggestions and Precautions
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Controller Compatibility: Verify that the ABB CI868K01-EA is compatible with your specific AC 800M processor module (e.g., PM861, PM864) and baseplate, and that a free slot is available.
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Network Planning: Properly design the PROFIBUS network: calculate the total data load, ensure the correct baud rate, plan for line termination (active/passive), and adhere to cabling guidelines (shielded cable, correct connectors).
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GSD Files: Ensure you have the correct Device Description (GSD) files for all PROFIBUS slave devices you plan to connect. These must be imported into the Control Builder M hardware catalog.
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Configuration: All network configuration, including slave addresses and I/O mapping, is done within Control Builder M. Familiarity with this software is required.
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Redundancy: If network communication redundancy is critical, consider the appropriate system architecture, as the CI868K01-EA itself is typically a single module. Redundancy may require a separate, redundant controller setup.
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