Description
The ABB FI820F (Part number 3BDH000031R1) is a high-performance communication interface module for the Freelance Distributed Control System (DCS). It is specifically designed to act as a bridge between the AC 800F controller and a Foundation Fieldbus (FF) H1 network, allowing for the integration of “smart” field devices.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
- Model Number: FI820F
- Part Number: 3BDH000031R1
- Protocol: Foundation Fieldbus H1 (31.25 kbit/s)
- Number of Channels: 1 independent FF H1 segment
- Controller Compatibility: ABB AC 800F (Freelance)
- Transmission Rate: 31.25 kbit/s (H1 standard)
- Power Supply: Via the AC 800F controller backplane
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C
- Status Indicators: LED for Power, Run, Error, and Transmit/Receive
ABB FI820F 3BDH000031R1
Country of Origin
This module is manufactured by ABB in Germany, following the precise engineering standards of the Freelance automation line.
Application Fields
The FI820F is the primary choice for integrating advanced field instrumentation:
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical: Interfacing with mass flowmeters, pressure transmitters, and valve positioners that support FF H1 diagnostics.
- Oil & Gas: Centralizing data from smart instruments spread across large production facilities.
- Water & Wastewater: Monitoring remote analytical sensors for pH, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen.
- Complex Process Loops: Utilizing the “Control in the Field” (CiF) capabilities of Foundation Fieldbus to execute control logic directly at the valve/sensor level.
Product Usage Instructions
- Hardware Installation: Plug the FI820F into one of the available function module slots on the AC 800F controller. Ensure the module is firmly clicked into the backplane.
- Fieldbus Connection: Connect the FF H1 segment cable to the front connector. Ensure that the segment is properly terminated with an approved FF terminator at both ends.
- Software Setup: Use the Freelance Engineering (Control Builder F) software to add the FI820F to the AC 800F hardware configuration.
- Device Integration: Import the Device Description (DD) or CFF files for your field instruments to enable full diagnostic and configuration access within the DCS.
- Powering the Segment: Note that the FI820F does not provide power to the FF H1 segment. An external Foundation Fieldbus power conditioner and power supply are required.
Product Technical Description
The FI820F serves as the “Link Active Scheduler” (LAS) for the Foundation Fieldbus segment. Technically, it manages the precise timing of the cyclic data exchange (scheduled traffic) and provides the bandwidth for acyclic data like device configuration and diagnostics (unscheduled traffic). By utilizing the FI820F, the AC 800F controller can access the extensive “Asset Management” data provided by FF devices, allowing for predictive maintenance and remote troubleshooting. The module supports a high number of devices per segment, limited primarily by the segment’s power consumption and cycle time requirements.
Q&A (Common Questions)
Q: Does the FI820F support Profibus? A: No, the FI820F is dedicated to Foundation Fieldbus. For Profibus DP integration, you would need the FI830F module.
Q: Can I replace an FI820 with an FI820F? A: Generally, the “F” suffix indicates the modern Freelance hardware revision. While functionally identical, you should verify firmware compatibility within your Control Builder F version.
Q: How many devices can I connect to one FI820F? A: While the protocol supports up to 32 devices, most industrial applications limit this to 12–16 devices per segment to ensure fast loop response times and adequate power budget.
Q: Does it support “Hot-Swap”? A: Yes, in a redundant AC 800F configuration, function modules like the FI820F can be replaced without shutting down the controller.
Similar Model Recommendations
- ABB FI830F (Profibus DP Interface)
- ABB FI810F (CAN Bus / Freelance Rack Interface)
- ABB FI840F (S800 I/O Bus Interface)
- ABB PM 802F (AC 800F Processor Module)
- ABB SA 811F (Power Supply for AC 800F)
For technical support or to procure the ABB FI820F 3BDH000031R1, please contact our process automation specialists.
