FBM231 Product Specification Sheet

1. Product Overview

FBM231 (Part Number: P0926GV) is a 4-port redundant serial communication module (Redundant FDSI) for Foxboro Evo™ and I/A Series DCS systems. As the redundant counterpart to FBM230, it pairs with a second FBM231 to deliver 1:1 module-level redundancy for mission-critical serial connections. Each of its four ports is software-configurable for RS-232/RS-422/RS-485, supporting Modbus RTU/ASCII and HART protocols. It enables reliable, fault-tolerant integration of dual-ported field devices (e.g., redundant PLCs, smart transmitters) in chemical, power, and oil/gas industries。

2. Key Specifications

Part Number: P0926GV

Ports & Interfaces: 4 independent software-programmable serial ports; each configurable for RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485

Redundancy: 1:1 module redundancy (Master/Tracker auto-switching); ports support redundant cabling for dual-ported devices

Communication Protocols: Modbus RTU/ASCII (master/slave), HART; custom driver support

Baud Rate: 300–115,200 bps (software configurable)

Device Capacity: Up to 64 Modbus slaves (16 per RS-485 port); up to 2000 DCI data points

Isolation: Channel-to-channel electrical isolation

Power Supply: 24 VDC (±10%); max power consumption 7 W

Environmental:

Operating: -20°C ~ +70°C

Storage: -40°C ~ +70°C

Humidity: 5%–95% non-condensing; ISA S71.04 Class G3

Certifications: CE, UL, ATEX, CSA; Class 1 Div 2 / Zone 2 hazardous area certified

Hot Swap: Supported (redundant pair maintains communication during replacement)

Physical:

Dimensions: 102 × 114 × 104 mm (H×W×D)

Weight: ~0.28 kg

Protection: IP20 (dust-resistant)

3. Core Features

Redundant Architecture: Paired modules (Master/Tracker) auto-switch on failure; no communication downtime for critical loops.

Multi-Protocol Flexibility: Simultaneously connect Modbus and HART devices across four isolated ports.

Dual-Ported Device Support: Ports can be grouped into logical redundant channels for dual-ported field instruments.

Diagnostic LEDs: Front-panel status LEDs for power, communication, fault, and Master/Tracker role indication.

Rugged Design: Compact metal housing with high vibration/EMI resistance for harsh industrial environments.

4. Termination & Cabling

Termination Assembly (TA): DIP-switch selectable 120Ω termination resistors per port; dual TAs for redundant pairs.

Connection Cables:

RS-485/RS-422: Shielded twisted-pair (STP) cables

RS-232: Standard serial cables

Max Distance: 1200 m (RS-485, 9600 bps); 15 m (RS-232)

5. Applications

Ideal for redundant serial device integration in process industries:

Chemical & Petrochemical Plants: Connect redundant Modbus PLCs and HART transmitters.

Power Stations: Integrate dual-ported serial devices in boiler/turbine control systems.

Oil & Gas: Offshore platforms and onshore refineries (hazardous area certified).

Critical Infrastructure: Any application requiring zero-downtime serial communication。