Description
HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 — High-Performance Universal Serial Interface Module for Industrial Automation
HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 is a versatile universal serial interface module developed by Honeywell, a global leader in industrial automation and control solutions. Specifically designed to enable seamless communication between Honeywell’s ControlEdge PLC/DCS systems and a wide range of serial-based field devices, HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 delivers reliable data transmission, flexible protocol support, and robust industrial-grade performance, making it an essential component for process industries such as oil & gas, chemical, pharmaceutical, and power generation.
Product Description
HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 is a key member of Honeywell’s Field Control (FC) series, engineered to address the communication needs of legacy and modern serial devices in industrial environments. The product HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 features multi-protocol support, including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 interfaces, allowing it to connect with sensors, transmitters, actuators, and other serial devices from various manufacturers without the need for additional converters.
HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 supports popular industrial serial protocols such as MODBUS RTU, ASCII, DF1, and Honeywell’s proprietary protocols, ensuring compatibility with both Honeywell and third-party equipment. The module is equipped with 4 independent serial ports, each configurable for different interface types (RS-232/422/485) and baud rates (up to 115.2 kbps), providing maximum flexibility for system integration. A standout feature of HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 is its advanced data processing capability: it can buffer up to 10,000 data points locally, reducing the load on the host PLC/DCS and ensuring real-time data transmission even in high-traffic scenarios.
The module HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 integrates seamlessly with Honeywell’s ControlEdge PLC and Experion PKS DCS systems via the high-speed ControlNet or Ethernet/IP backbone, enabling centralized monitoring and configuration through Honeywell’s Control Builder software. Its rugged industrial design includes a metal housing, IP20 protection rating, and a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +70°C, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments with electromagnetic interference (EMI) and vibration. Additionally, the module offers built-in diagnostic functions, providing real-time status updates on port activity, communication errors, and power supply, facilitating quick troubleshooting and minimizing downtime.
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Honeywell
- Model: HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002
- Product Type: Universal Serial Interface Module (Industrial Automation)
- Supported Interfaces: 4 independent ports (configurable as RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485)
- Supported Protocols: MODBUS RTU, MODBUS ASCII, DF1, Honeywell Proprietary Protocols
- Baud Rate: 300 bps to 115.2 kbps (configurable per port)
- Data Bits: 7 or 8 bits
- Parity: None, Odd, Even, Mark, Space
- Stop Bits: 1, 1.5, or 2 bits
- Data Buffering: Up to 10,000 data points (local buffering)
- Host Interface: ControlNet, Ethernet/IP (compatible with Honeywell ControlEdge PLC/Experion PKS DCS)
- Power Supply: 24 VDC (±10%), Power Consumption ≤ 15 W
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
- Storage Temperature: -55°C to +85°C
- Protection Rating: IP20
- Housing Material: Metal (aluminum alloy)
- Mounting Type: 35 mm DIN Rail Mount
- Dimensions (L×W×H): 140 mm × 110 mm × 75 mm
- Weight: Approximately 0.6 kg
- Compatibility: Honeywell ControlEdge PLC, Experion PKS DCS, third-party serial devices (sensors, transmitters, actuators)
- Certifications: CE, UL, CSA, ATEX (Zone 2/22), IECEx, FCC, RoHS
Advantages and Features
- Multi-Protocol & Multi-Interface Support: Configurable RS-232/422/485 ports and broad protocol compatibility for seamless integration with diverse devices.
- High Flexibility: 4 independent ports with customizable baud rates and data formats to meet specific application requirements.
- Local Data Buffering: Reduces host system load and ensures real-time data transmission in high-traffic scenarios.
- Seamless Honeywell Integration: Plug-and-play compatibility with ControlEdge PLC and Experion PKS DCS, simplified configuration via Control Builder.
- Rugged Industrial Design: Wide temperature range, EMI resistance, and vibration tolerance for reliable operation in harsh environments.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Real-time status monitoring and error reporting for quick troubleshooting and reduced downtime.
- Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for additional converters/gateways, lowering system integration costs.
Application Fields and Case Studies
- Oil & Gas Industry: A major offshore oil platform used HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 to connect Honeywell ControlEdge PLC with RS-485-based pressure transmitters and flow meters across the platform. The module’s multi-protocol support enabled seamless communication with third-party devices, while local data buffering ensured uninterrupted data transmission even during temporary network latency, enhancing operational visibility and safety.
- Chemical Industry: A large chemical plant integrated HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 into its Experion PKS DCS system to communicate with RS-232-based analytical instruments (pH meters, conductivity sensors) and RS-485-based valve actuators. The module’s configurable ports and protocol flexibility simplified system expansion, allowing the plant to add new devices without reconfiguring the entire communication network.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: A pharmaceutical manufacturing facility utilized HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 to connect its ControlEdge PLC with serial-based temperature controllers and batch recorders. The module’s reliable data transmission and diagnostic functions ensured compliance with FDA regulations for process monitoring and data integrity, while its rugged design withstood the cleanroom and industrial area environmental conditions.
- Power Generation Industry: A coal-fired power plant deployed HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 to link its Experion PKS DCS with RS-485-based vibration sensors and motor protectors in the turbine hall. The module’s wide operating temperature range and EMI resistance ensured stable communication in the high-temperature, high-interference environment, enabling predictive maintenance and preventing unplanned downtime.
Comparison with Competitors
| Parameter | HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 | Competitor Product (Generic Universal Serial Module) | Honeywell Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Ports | 4 (configurable) | 2 (fixed interface type) | More ports and flexibility for device connectivity |
| Protocol Support | MODBUS RTU/ASCII, DF1, Honeywell Proprietary | Only MODBUS RTU | Broader compatibility with legacy and Honeywell-specific devices |
| Data Buffering | Up to 10,000 points | No local buffering | Reduces host load and ensures real-time transmission |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +70°C | -20°C to +60°C | Better performance in extreme temperature environments |
| Host Integration | Plug-and-play with Honeywell PLC/DCS | Requires custom drivers for most DCS/PLC | Simplified configuration and seamless system integration |
| Diagnostics | Real-time port status, error reporting | Basic power/communication status only | Faster troubleshooting and reduced downtime |
| Housing Material | Metal | Plastic | Higher durability and EMI resistance |
Selection Recommendations and Precautions
Selection Recommendations
Choose HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 if your application requires: 1) Multi-protocol and multi-interface support to connect diverse serial devices; 2) Seamless integration with Honeywell ControlEdge PLC or Experion PKS DCS; 3) Reliable operation in harsh industrial environments (extreme temperatures, EMI, vibration); 4) Local data buffering for high-traffic scenarios; 5) Advanced diagnostics for efficient maintenance. Consider the number of serial devices and their interface/protocol types to ensure the module’s 4 ports meet your connectivity needs.
Precautions
- When installing HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002, use shielded twisted-pair cables for serial connections to minimize EMI interference. Ensure proper grounding of the module and cables to avoid signal degradation.
- Configure port parameters (interface type, baud rate, parity) via Honeywell Control Builder software to match the connected devices. Mismatched parameters will cause communication failures.
- Do not exceed the module’s power supply rating (24 VDC ±10%). Use a stable power source with surge protection to prevent damage from voltage spikes.
- Regularly update the module’s firmware via Honeywell’s official support channel to access new features and security patches.
- Avoid mounting the module in direct sunlight or areas with excessive dust, moisture, or corrosive gases. Ensure adequate ventilation for heat dissipation.
Maintenance
- Routine Checks: Conduct monthly inspections of the module’s indicator lights, cable connections, and mounting stability. Clean dust from the housing using compressed air (low pressure) to maintain heat dissipation.
- Firmware Updates: Check for firmware updates quarterly and install them following Honeywell’s guidelines to ensure optimal performance and security.
- Troubleshooting: Use the module’s diagnostic functions and Control Builder software to identify communication errors. Replace damaged cables or ports promptly to avoid system disruptions.
- Spare Parts: For critical applications, keep a spare HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 on hand to minimize downtime in case of module failure.
HONEYWELL FC-USI-0002 stands out as a reliable, flexible, and high-performance universal serial interface module for industrial automation. Its multi-protocol support, seamless integration with Honeywell systems, rugged design, and advanced features make it the ideal choice for connecting serial devices in process industries, ensuring efficient data transmission, simplified integration, and reduced operational costs.
FC-USI-0002
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