ABB CI855 | Communication Interface Unit, In Stock

Description

Product Introduction

The ABB CI855 is a communication interface module for the S800 I/O family, enabling S800 I/O stations to communicate with a Profibus DP master. The CI855 mounts on an S800 I/O termination unit (TU) and acts as a gateway between the S800 backplane and the Profibus DP network, allowing distributed I/O to be integrated with PLCs, DCS systems, and other controllers that support Profibus DP. Typical applications include distributed I/O for AC800M, AC500, and third-party Profibus DP master systems.

The S800 I/O platform is ABB’s standard distributed I/O solution for process and discrete automation. The CI855 is the standard Profibus DP interface for S800 I/O, replacing older communication modules such as the CI854. For system integrators, this module provides a reliable, high-speed connection to Profibus networks, supporting up to 12 Mbps communication and up to 64 I/O modules per CI855. The CI855 is also available in redundant configurations for high-availability applications.

Key Technical Specifications

Key Selling Points & Differentiators

• Profibus DP Integration: Connects S800 I/O stations to any Profibus DP master, including Siemens PLCs, ABB AC800M, third-party DCS systems, and SCADA platforms.
• High-Speed Communication: Supports Profibus DP transmission rates up to 12 Mbps, ensuring fast I/O updates for time-critical applications.
• Redundant Configuration: Two CI855 modules can be installed on a redundant termination unit (TU830 or TU840) for high-availability applications. Automatic failover ensures continuous communication if one module fails.
• Large I/O Capacity: Supports up to 64 I/O modules per CI855, with up to 128 bytes of input and 128 bytes of output data per station.
• Easy Configuration: Uses standard Profibus GSD files for integration with any Profibus DP master. No complex programming required.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which termination units are compatible with the CI855?
The CI855 mounts on S800 I/O termination units that support communication modules. Common options include:

• TU810: Standard termination unit (simplex)
• TU830: Redundant termination unit with external 24 V power
• TU840: Redundant termination unit with internal 24 V power distribution

For redundant communication, use TU830 or TU840. For simplex applications, TU810 is sufficient.

Q: What is the difference between the CI855 and the CI854?
The CI854 is the earlier Profibus DP interface for S800 I/O. The CI855 is the newer replacement, offering:

• Higher performance (12 Mbps vs. 1.5 Mbps for CI854)
• Improved diagnostics
• Better compatibility with modern Profibus masters

The CI855 is backward-compatible with existing S800 I/O installations. If you are replacing a CI854, the CI855 is a direct drop-in replacement with the same physical dimensions and termination unit compatibility.

Q: Can I use the CI855 with a Siemens PLC?
Yes. The CI855 is a standard Profibus DP slave and is compatible with any Profibus DP master, including Siemens S7-300, S7-400, and S7-1200/1500 with a Profibus DP master module. You will need the CI855 GSD file (available from ABB) to configure the module in Siemens STEP 7 or TIA Portal.

Q: Does the CI855 support Profibus PA devices?
No. The CI855 is a Profibus DP interface and does not directly support Profibus PA devices. Profibus PA devices require a DP/PA coupler or link to connect to the DP network.

Q: Can I use two CI855 modules for redundancy?
Yes. When installed on a redundant termination unit (TU830 or TU840), two CI855 modules can operate in a redundant configuration. The modules share the same Profibus address, and if the active module fails, the standby module automatically takes over communication without interrupting I/O data exchange.

Q: How do I configure the CI855?
Configuration is done through the Profibus master system. Steps include:

1. Install the CI855 GSD file in your engineering software
2. Assign a Profibus address (set via DIP switches on the module)
3. Configure the I/O mapping (input and output data sizes)
4. Download configuration to the Profibus master

The CI855 also has DIP switches for setting the Profibus address and other operational parameters.

Q: What testing do you perform before shipping?
For new factory-sealed units, we do not break the seal to maintain OEM warranty eligibility. Our QC process includes visual inspection of packaging integrity, verification of the CI855 part number and revision, and anti-counterfeit checks. For units where testing is requested, we perform a full functional test on a live S800 I/O system with a Profibus DP master, verifying communication, I/O data exchange, and redundancy functionality (if applicable). A test report is available upon request.

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