Description
The Kongsberg RCU500 Controller Unit 603108 is a marine automation control module designed for distributed control and monitoring applications in Kongsberg Maritime automation systems. It functions as a remote processing and interface unit, handling communication between field devices, remote I/O modules, and central control systems. The RCU500 is commonly used in K-Chief 500 and marine automation installations for ship control, monitoring, and machinery management applications.
The RCU500 provides real-time processing capability with multiple communication interfaces including Ethernet, serial communication, and CAN bus connectivity. It is designed for reliable operation in marine environments where continuous monitoring and control of propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, and onboard automation equipment are required.

RCU500
📋 Product Datasheet
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kongsberg Maritime |
| Model | RCU500 |
| Part Number | 603108 |
| Series | K-Chief 500 / Marine Automation Series |
| Product Name | Remote Controller Unit |
| Module Type | Marine Automation Controller |
| Processor Type | Embedded Real-Time Processor |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC |
| Communication Interfaces | Ethernet / RS-422 / RS-485 / CAN Bus |
| Application | Ship Automation & Remote Control System |
| Mounting Type | Rack / Cabinet Installation |
| Operating Temperature | Approx. -15°C to +70°C |
| Protection Class | IP20 |
| Dimensions | Industrial Controller Module Size |
| Weight | Approx. 1–2 kg |
| Country of Origin | Norway |
| Condition / Status | Used – Verify Physical Unit |
⚙️ Product Features
🔹 Marine Automation Controller – Designed as a remote control processing unit for Kongsberg ship automation systems.
🔹 Distributed Control Architecture – Provides communication and processing between field devices, remote I/O modules, and higher-level automation controllers.
🔹 Multiple Communication Ports – Supports Ethernet, serial interfaces, and CAN communication for flexible system integration.
🔹 K-Chief System Compatibility – Commonly applied in Kongsberg K-Chief 500 marine automation platforms for machinery monitoring and control.
🔹 Engine Room Automation Application – Suitable for propulsion monitoring, auxiliary machinery control, alarm handling, and vessel automation systems.
🔹 Industrial Marine Design – Built for continuous operation in shipboard environments with vibration and temperature requirements.
🔹 Replacement Spare Module – Used for maintenance and retrofit applications where existing RCU500 hardware is installed.
❓ Common Questions & Answers
Q1: What is the Kongsberg RCU500 603108?
A: It is a Remote Controller Unit used in Kongsberg marine automation systems for distributed control, communication, and monitoring functions.
Q2: Is RCU500 a PLC CPU?
A: It is a dedicated marine automation controller module. It performs control and communication tasks within Kongsberg automation architectures.
Q3: Where is the RCU500 commonly used?
A: It is mainly used in ship automation systems, engine room control systems, and marine machinery monitoring applications.
Q4: What communication interfaces are supported?
A: The unit supports industrial communication interfaces including Ethernet, serial communication, and CAN bus depending on configuration.
Q5: What power supply does the RCU500 require?
A: The typical operating supply is 24 VDC for marine automation applications.
Q6: Can RCU500 replace another Kongsberg controller?
A: Replacement compatibility should be confirmed by checking the complete part number, hardware revision, software configuration, and system architecture.
Q7: What should be checked before installation?
A: Verify the model number, revision level, communication settings, power supply, I/O configuration, and existing Kongsberg automation system compatibility.
⭐ Recommended Kongsberg Models
- RDIOR400 600950 – Remote Control Input/Power Module
- RDIO401S 603432 – Remote Digital I/O Module
- RCU500 603108 Rev.B1 – Remote Controller Unit
- RCU500 603108 Rev.A1 – Remote Controller Unit
- MCU8625 – Marine Control Unit
- APC12 – Advanced Process Controller Module
- K-Chief 500 Controller Module – Ship Automation Controller
- K-Bridge Control System Module – Integrated Bridge Automation Component
- AutoChief C20 Controller – Propulsion Control Unit
- Kongsberg RIO Module Series – Remote I/O Automation Modules
