Description
Product Overview
FCP280 is an optionally fault-tolerant field control processor for Schneider EcoStruxure Foxboro I/A Series DCS. It executes regulatory PID control, interlock logic, timing and sequential control, handles field data acquisition and alarm notification, and communicates with FBM (Fieldbus Module) I/O units via HDLC fieldbus. It supports 1:1 hot standby redundant deployment with bumpless switchover. Built with die-cast aluminum housing and G3 harsh environment rating, it can be mounted inside non-ventilated field cabinets. It supports self-host boot, meaning it can run loaded control database independently without an online engineering workstation.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Foxboro (Schneider Electric) |
| Model | FCP280, RH924YA |
| Product Type | Field Control Processor (FCP) |
| Memory | 128 MB SDRAM, 128 MB Flash, ECC memory error correction |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC, redundant power input on baseplate |
| Typical Power Consumption | ≤18 W |
| Control Scan Rate | Minimum 100 ms, configurable per control block |
| Fieldbus Interface | 4 × HDLC PIO buses; 2 Mbps for 200-series FBM, 268 kbps for legacy 100-series FBM |
| Max FBM Capacity | Up to 128 FBMs (mixed 100+200 series; max 64 units of 100-series FBM) |
| Control Network | Dual 100 Mbps Ethernet (copper or fiber) for Mesh network |
| Redundancy | 1:1 hot standby, bumpless automatic switchover |
| Local Interface | Front LCD + push buttons for status display and letterbug setting |
| Operating Temperature | 0 ~ +60 °C (G3 environment) |
| Humidity | 5%–95% RH, non-condensing |
| Net Weight | Approx. 0.78 kg |
| Certifications | CE, ISA EDSA cybersecurity certified |
Key Features
- Integrated Process Control Engine: Executes continuous PID, feedforward, cascade control, discrete logic and batch sequence control, collects field measurements and generates process alarms.
- Patented Fault-Tolerant Redundancy: Dual FCP280 hot standby pair. If primary unit fails, standby takes over seamlessly without process bump.
- OLUG Online Image Upgrade: Redundant FCP280 pair supports online firmware upgrade (OLUG / EOLUG) while process runs, no plant shutdown required.
- 4 Native HDLC Fieldbus Ports: Directly supports up to four PIO HDLC buses; no external FEM/FBI expansion module required, reduces spare parts count.
- Backward Compatibility: Supports both legacy 100-series and newer 200-series FBM I/O modules, enabling gradual DCS migration and reuse of existing I/O hardware.
- G3 Ruggedized Construction: Die-cast aluminum casing, suitable for dusty, high vibration industrial field cabinets without forced ventilation.
- Self-Host Boot Function: Load control strategy from local flash memory; the controller continues control even when engineering workstation is offline.
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Front LCD displays unit role, fault status and letterbug address; built-in self-test and ECC memory fault detection.
Applications
- Petrochemical refinery and chemical continuous process DCS control
- Power plant boiler, turbine and auxiliary system control
- Oil & gas onshore and offshore production control systems
- Pulp & paper, metallurgy large continuous production automation
- Water treatment, pharmaceutical and food batch process control
Installation & Maintenance Notes
- ESD protection is mandatory during module handling and replacement.
- Install on dedicated FCP baseplate, wire redundant 24VDC power supply.
- Set FCP letterbug address via front panel keys or engineering workstation before commissioning.
- Separate HDLC fieldbus signal wiring from high-current power cables to minimize EMI interference.
- For redundant pair, complete primary/standby synchronization and bumpless switchover test during commissioning.
- Online firmware upgrade should only be performed during approved maintenance windows.
- Check LCD status and diagnostic logs from Foxboro engineering software during routine inspection.
- Verify firmware version and control database compatibility before spare module replacement.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between FCP280 and FDC280? A: FCP280 is Field Control Processor for continuous, logic and sequential process control. FDC280 is Field Device Controller, mainly used for field device integration and equipment control.
Q: Can FCP280 replace FCP270? A: Yes, FCP280 supports migration from legacy FCP270 controllers and can reuse existing 100-series FBM I/O modules, with higher processing power and more fieldbus ports.
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