Foxboro FBM231 Field Device System Integrator Module

The Foxboro FBM231 is a high-performance Field Device System Integrator (FDSI) module designed for Foxboro’s I/A Series control systems. This module ensures seamless communication and reliable data transfer between dual-ported field I/O devices and the control system. With a built-in redundancy feature, one FBM231 module functions as the Master, while the other acts as the Tracker module, guaranteeing system reliability in critical industrial applications.

Key Features

Redundant Design: Two FBM231 modules work together to provide redundancy, enhancing the overall reliability of the system.
Multiple Communication Ports: Equipped with four serial I/O ports (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485), ensuring versatile connectivity for different industrial devices.
Flexible I/O Capacity: Supports up to 64 devices and 2000 DC point connections per module, making it highly scalable for large systems.
Wide Transmission Rate Range: Supports baud rates from 300 to 115200, offering flexibility for various communication needs.
Powerful Data Handling: Supports 2-byte or 4-byte integers, IEEE 4-byte single-precision floats, and binary data types for diverse applications.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Foxboro (now part of Schneider Electric)
Part Number	FBM231
Product Type	Field Device System Integrator Module
Platform	Foxboro I/A Series
Communication Ports	Four serial I/O ports (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485)
Transmission Rate	300 to 115200 baud
I/O Capacity	Up to 64 devices, 2000 DC point connections per module
Data Types	2-byte or 4-byte integers, IEEE 4-byte single-precision floats, or binary
Operating Voltage	24 V DC ±5%
Power Consumption	7 W maximum per module
Operating Temperature	-20°C to +70°C
Relative Humidity	5% to 95% (non-condensing)
Module Dimensions	Height: 102 mm (4 in), Width: 45 mm (1.75 in), Depth: 104 mm (4.11 in)
Weight	284 g (10 oz)

Environmental Specifications

Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +158°F)
Storage Temperature: -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F)
Humidity: 5% to 95% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Contamination: Suitable for use in Class G3 (Harsh) environments, according to ISA Standard S71.04.

Physical Specifications

Mounting: The FBM231 mounts on a Modular Baseplate, installable both horizontally or vertically on a DIN rail. It can also be mounted in a 19-inch rack using a mounting kit.
Part Numbers:
- Module: P0926GV
- TA Ring Lug: P0926PA
- TA Compression Screw: P0926GH
Cables:
- FBM231 to TA Lengths: Available in lengths from 1 m (3 ft) to 5 m (15 ft)
- Termination Cable Type: Type 5 (refer to Table 1 on page 9)
- RS-232 Connection (DB-25 Cable) to Modem/Converter/Device: Supports custom cables up to 15 m (50 ft), per EIA standard RS-232
- RS-422 and RS-485: Supports distances of up to 1200 m (3960 ft)

Applications

The Foxboro FBM231 is ideal for a variety of industrial automation systems, including:

Control Systems: Provides crucial serial communication between field devices and control systems, ensuring reliable operation.
Process Automation: Supports a wide range of field devices, including sensors, actuators, and control valves.
Redundant Systems: The redundant module configuration enhances system uptime, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.

Overview

The Foxboro FBM231 is a versatile Field Device System Integrator module that delivers reliable, high-performance communication for Foxboro I/A Series control systems. By supporting multiple serial communication standards (RS-232, RS-422, RS-485), it ensures flexible and efficient integration of field devices. Its redundancy features and high I/O capacity make it perfect for large, complex industrial environments.