Description

The CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is a specialized, high-performance communication interface module manufactured by ABB for its System 800xA and Symphony™ Plus distributed control systems (DCS). This module serves as a critical and highly reliable gateway, specifically engineered to provide a fully redundant Ethernet/IP™ (Allen-Bradley EtherNet/IP) scanner interface. Its core function is to enable seamless, real-time data exchange and control integration between the central AC 800M high-performance controllers and a wide array of devices that support the CIP (Common Industrial Protocol) over Ethernet, such as Allen-Bradley ControlLogix® PLCs, PowerFlex® drives, and other third-party intelligent field devices. The CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is an essential component for implementing multi-vendor control strategies and achieving plant-wide interoperability within complex automation architectures.

Designed for mission-critical applications where system availability and data integrity are paramount, the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 module’s defining feature is its built-in, active redundancy with two independent Ethernet channels. This robust design ensures continuous, uninterrupted communication even in the event of a single network component failure, a critical requirement for processes in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and automotive manufacturing that heavily utilize Rockwell Automation® equipment. The module integrates natively into the S800 I/O system, acting as a powerful protocol translator and data concentrator. The value of the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 lies in its ability to break down communication barriers between major automation platforms, enhancing system resilience, maximizing plant availability, and protecting investments in existing equipment by enabling a unified and coherent control environment.

CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 ABB

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2
Manufacturer	ABB
Product Type	Redundant Ethernet/IP Scanner Communication Interface Module
Communication Protocol	EtherNet/IP™ (CIP) Scanner
Number of Channels	2 (Redundant, active parallel channels)
Data Transfer Rate	10/100 Mbps (auto-negotiating, full/half duplex)
Number of Connections	Up to 128 TCP connections, configurable number of CIP connections
CIP Data Types Supported	Explicit Messaging, Implicit (I/O) Messaging (Polled, Cyclic, Change-of-State)
Physical Interface	2 x RJ-45 (for redundant networks)
Redundancy	Active parallel redundancy with seamless switchover
Number of Adapters	Supports connection to multiple EtherNet/IP Adapter devices
Power Supply	Backplane powered via the S800 unit base (24V DC)
Power Consumption	2.5 W typical
Operating Temperature	0°C to +60°C (+32°F to +140°F)
Certifications	cULus, UL Class I Div 2, ATEX, IECEx, CE, KC

Main Features and Advantages

The most significant advantage of the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is its fully integrated, active parallel redundancy. Unlike standard single-channel interfaces, its dual Ethernet channels operate simultaneously, ensuring a truly seamless and bumpless switchover with zero data loss in the event of a network fault. This architecture provides the highest level of communication availability for critical control loops interacting with essential CIP devices. The module functions as a full-featured EtherNet/IP Scanner, capable of both explicit messaging (for configuration and data collection) and implicit I/O messaging (for real-time control data), supporting various trigger methods including polled, cyclic, and change-of-state to optimize network bandwidth.

Simplified engineering and robust interoperability: Configuration of the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is fully managed within ABB’s unified Control Builder engineering environment. The module’s setup wizards guide the user through defining connected adapters and mapping I/O data directly into the AC 800M controller’s process image, eliminating the need for complex scripting or third-party gateways. This native integration drastically reduces engineering time and potential for error. The module provides extensive diagnostic capabilities, offering detailed insights into the status of each CIP connection and the health of both network channels, which is crucial for rapid troubleshooting and maintaining high system availability. Its robust industrial design and hazardous location certifications make the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 a trusted component in the most demanding industrial environments.

Application Field

The CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is strategically deployed in hybrid automation environments where seamless integration between an ABB DCS and Rockwell Automation® control equipment is required. A primary application is in the automotive industry, where the ABB DCS may manage the paint shop or energy monitoring, while individual assembly robots and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are Allen-Bradley®; the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 provides the vital link between these systems. In the food and beverage and pharmaceutical sectors, which heavily standardize on Rockwell® for machine-level control (PLCs and drives) and ABB for process-level DCS, this module integrates packaging lines, pasteurizers, and clean-in-place (CIP) systems into a unified supervisory structure.

Within oil and gas and chemical plants, the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is used to connect to packaged units and compressor control panels that are often delivered with a Rockwell ControlLogix® PLC already installed. This allows for seamless data integration without the cost and complexity of a control system rip-and-replace. It is also essential in material handling and logistics centers for integrating conveyor control systems. The CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 is the definitive solution for any application requiring a high-availability, native bridge between the ABB and Rockwell automation ecosystems, ensuring full interoperability and data coherence.

Related Products

TU833 3BSE013258R1: A high-density S800 I/O unit base designed for communication modules like the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2.

AC 800M Controller (e.g., PM866): The high-performance controller that manages the S800 I/O station where the CI854A-EA module resides.

S800 I/O Modules (e.g., AI845, DI810): The various analog and digital I/O modules that reside in the same station.

SD833 3BSE018107R1: A power supply module for the S800 I/O rack.

EtherNet/IP Network Switches: Managed industrial Ethernet switches that support STP/RSTP for building robust network infrastructures.

ControlLogix® PLCs: Primary Rockwell Automation controllers that the CI854A-EA module communicates with as a scanner.

PowerFlex® Drives: Variable frequency drives that can be directly controlled and monitored by the CI854A-EA module.

CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 ABB

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2, ensure all power to the S800 I/O rack is disconnected. Verify the correct unit base (e.g., TU833) is installed. Plan the EtherNet/IP network topology, including IP addressing for both channels of the module and all connected adapter devices. Ensure the network infrastructure (switches) is configured for high availability using protocols like RSTP. Have the EDS (Electronic Data Sheet) files for all connected Rockwell devices available for import into Control Builder.

Maintenance recommendations: The CI854A-EA 3BSE030221R2 requires minimal physical maintenance. The primary focus should be on monitoring its operational status through the comprehensive diagnostic suite available in Control Builder, which provides detailed information on connection status and network health for both channels. Periodically check the physical integrity of the Ethernet connectors and cables. The module’s active redundancy allows for maintenance on one network path (e.g., replacing a switch) without any disruption to the control data flow, enabling proactive network care.