Description
The ABB PM864A is a high-performance CPU module belonging to the System 800xA and AC 800M controller family. It is designed to handle complex control logic, advanced communication tasks, and data processing in large-scale industrial automation environments.
Product Introduction
The ABB PM864A serves as the primary processing engine for the AC 800M hardware platform. Built with a modular and scalable architecture, this PM864A Controller provides high processing power and large memory capacity to manage extensive I/O configurations and high-speed communication protocols. It is frequently utilized in demanding industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation, where reliability and performance are critical.

ABB PM864A
Technical Specifications (Datasheet)
The following specifications define the hardware capabilities of the PM864A module:
| Parameter | Specification |
| Microprocessor | RISC processor (High-speed execution) |
| Memory | 32 MB RAM / 8 MB Flash |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC (19.2 to 30 V DC range) |
| Current Consumption | Max 160 mA (at 24 V DC) |
| Communication Ports | 2x Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), 2x RS-232C |
| I/O Capacity | Supports up to 12 S800 I/O modules directly |
| Redundancy | Supports CPU Redundancy (Dual modules) |
| Clock Synchronization | SNTP, MB 300, or CNCP |
| Operating Temperature | +5°C to +55°C |
| Country of Origin | Sweden / Estonia |
Product Usage & Installation
- Mounting: Secure the PM864A onto a standard TP830 Baseplate. Ensure the baseplate is properly mounted on a DIN rail within an industrial-grade enclosure.
- Redundancy Setup: For high-availability systems, install two PM864A units in a redundant configuration. Use the RCU (Redundancy Control Unit) to synchronize the primary and backup processors.
- Connectivity: Connect the control network via the built-in Ethernet ports (CN1 and CN2). These ports support the proprietary IAC (Inter Application Communication) and MMS protocols.
- Software Configuration: Program the controller using ABB Control Builder M (part of the 800xA Engineering suite). Use standard IEC 61131-3 languages such as Function Block Diagram (FBD) or Structured Text (ST).
- Battery Backup: Ensure a functioning battery is installed in the baseplate to retain the application program in RAM during power outages.

ABB PM864A
Common Questions Q&A
- Q: Can I use the PM864A as a standalone controller?
- A: Yes, the PM864A can operate as a single controller, but it is often used in redundant pairs for mission-critical applications to prevent downtime.
- Q: What is the main difference between PM864 and PM864A?
- A: The “A” version typically represents an updated hardware revision with improved thermal management and components, though they are generally functionally compatible.
- Q: Does this module support Profibus?
- A: Yes, while not built-in, Profibus DP can be supported by adding a CI854A communication interface module to the controller rack.
Recommended Similar Models
For different processing requirements or system upgrades within the AC 800M family, consider:
- ABB PM861A: A cost-effective version for smaller applications with lower memory requirements.
- ABB PM865: A high-end version that supports online hardware upgrades and advanced redundancy.
- ABB PM866: A high-performance processor with significantly faster clock speeds and larger memory (64 MB).
- ABB PM860: A legacy processor module for entry-level control tasks.
- ABB PM891: The most powerful processor in the AC 800M series, featuring a much faster CPU and 256 MB RAM.


