FCM100E
Model: FCM100E (Part Number: P0972ZA)
Brand: FOXBORO (Schneider Electric)
Type: I/A Series Field Communication Module
Function: Serves as a communication bridge between 100 Mbps Ethernet (MESH control network) and 2 Mbps/268 Kbps fieldbus, enabling seamless integration of FBM (Fieldbus Module) devices with the I/A Series DCS. It facilitates high-speed data transmission between the ZCP270 central controller and distributed FBM modules, supporting reliable industrial process control.
1. Technical Specifications
The FCM100E is equipped with a 32-bit industrial RISC processor, paired with 16 MB SDRAM and 32 MB Flash memory to ensure stable and efficient data processing. For communication interfaces, it features a 100 Mbps Ethernet port (fiber-optic) and a fieldbus port compatible with 2 Mbps (for 200-series FBMs) and 268 Kbps (for 100-series FBMs) signal rates. It can support up to 32 units of 200-series FBMs or 64 units of 100-series FBMs, meeting the needs of large-scale distributed control systems. The module operates on a 24 VDC power supply with a input range of 21–42 VDC, supporting redundant power input for enhanced reliability, and has a maximum power consumption of 5 W. Its operating temperature ranges from 0°C to +70°C (32°F to +158°F), with a humidity tolerance of 5%–95% non-condensing, and it can operate at altitudes from –300 to +3,000 m (–1,000 to +10,000 ft). Designed for harsh industrial environments, it meets Class G3 (ISA S71.04) standards and is equipped with EMI/RFI shielding. The module has dimensions of 140 × 165 × 45 mm and weighs 0.6 kg (1.32 lb), featuring a compact and rugged design suitable for cabinet installation.
Description
Model: FCM100E (Part Number: P0972ZA)Brand: FOXBORO (Schneider Electric)Type: I/A Series Field Communication ModuleFunction: Serves as a communication bridge between 100 Mbps Ethernet (MESH control network) and 2 Mbps/268 Kbps fieldbus, enabling seamless integration of FBM (Fieldbus Module) devices with the I/A Series DCS. It facilitates high-speed data transmission between the ZCP270 central controller and distributed FBM modules, supporting reliable industrial process control.
1. Technical Specifications
The FCM100E is equipped with a 32-bit industrial RISC processor, paired with 16 MB SDRAM and 32 MB Flash memory to ensure stable and efficient data processing. For communication interfaces, it features a 100 Mbps Ethernet port (fiber-optic) and a fieldbus port compatible with 2 Mbps (for 200-series FBMs) and 268 Kbps (for 100-series FBMs) signal rates. It can support up to 32 units of 200-series FBMs or 64 units of 100-series FBMs, meeting the needs of large-scale distributed control systems. The module operates on a 24 VDC power supply with a input range of 21–42 VDC, supporting redundant power input for enhanced reliability, and has a maximum power consumption of 5 W. Its operating temperature ranges from 0°C to +70°C (32°F to +158°F), with a humidity tolerance of 5%–95% non-condensing, and it can operate at altitudes from –300 to +3,000 m (–1,000 to +10,000 ft). Designed for harsh industrial environments, it meets Class G3 (ISA S71.04) standards and is equipped with EMI/RFI shielding. The module has dimensions of 140 × 165 × 45 mm and weighs 0.6 kg (1.32 lb), featuring a compact and rugged design suitable for cabinet installation.
2. Key Features
The FCM100E realizes high-efficiency protocol conversion between 100 Mbps Ethernet and 2 Mbps/268 Kbps fieldbus, establishing a stable communication link between the ZCP270 controller and FBM modules. It supports dual-module hot swap with automatic failover, ensuring zero downtime even when a single module fails, which is critical for high-reliability industrial control scenarios. Equipped with a multi-mode fiber port (62.5/125 µm), it can extend the communication distance up to 1,830 m (6,000 ft) for 268 Kbps fieldbus signals, facilitating remote FBM deployment. The module is hot-swappable, allowing replacement without shutting down the entire system, significantly reducing maintenance downtime. It is equipped with LED status indicators for real-time monitoring of module operation, and its working status can be further monitored and managed through I/A Series system management tools. The FCM100E has obtained multiple certifications including CE, RoHS, UL/UL-C, ATEX (Zone 2), and Marine (BV), ensuring compliance with international industrial standards and adaptability to various application environments.
3. Installation & Wiring
The FCM100E can be installed on a DIN rail or a 200-series baseplate, supporting both horizontal and vertical installation modes for flexible deployment in control cabinets. It is compatible with P0926KE (2-position), P0926HM (4-position), and P0926JM (8-position) baseplates, allowing flexible configuration according to system scale. The fiber port is used to connect to the MESH network (100 Mbps) via multi-mode fiber, ensuring high-speed and stable long-distance communication. The fieldbus port is connected to FBM modules through a terminal block, supporting both 2 Mbps and 268 Kbps signal transmission. The module is equipped with redundant 24 VDC input terminals, allowing connection to primary and secondary power supplies to prevent power failure. For redundant configuration, two FCM100E modules can be installed in adjacent baseplate slots, forming a fault-tolerant pair to further improve system reliability.
4. Application
The FCM100E is widely used in I/A Series DCS systems in industries such as power, chemical, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals, providing core communication support for distributed control. It is particularly suitable for remote I/O scenarios, connecting remote 100-series or 200-series FBM modules to the central ZCP270 controller, realizing on-site data collection and control command issuance. As a high-speed communication link, its 100 Mbps Ethernet port enables seamless integration of the I/A Series system with the plant-level network, facilitating centralized management and data sharing. With its Class G3 harsh environment rating, it can operate stably in high-dust, high-humidity, and strong electromagnetic interference industrial sites, ensuring the continuity and reliability of industrial control processes.
5. Ordering Information
The model of the module is FCM100E, with a part number of P0972ZA. Each package includes one FCM100E module, a multi-mode fiber port, and a DIN rail adapter, providing all necessary components for installation and use.
6. Notes
The FCM100E is exclusively designed for Foxboro I/A Series DCS systems and requires matching with ZCP270 controllers and corresponding baseplates to ensure normal operation. The module’s configuration is completed through the I/A Series Letterbug Configurator, and users need to perform parameter setting according to the system requirements. For maintenance, the module supports hot-swap replacement, which can be completed without tools, effectively reducing maintenance time and costs. It is recommended to install the module in a well-ventilated, dust-proof, and electromagnetic interference-free area to ensure its long-term stable operation.

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