Description

The CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 is a high-performance, dual-channel 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 Foundation Fieldbus H1 interface. Its core function is to enable seamless, deterministic data exchange and control integration between the central AC 800M high-performance controllers and a wide array of Foundation Fieldbus H1 compatible field devices, including smart transmitters, positioners, and analytical instruments. The CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 is an essential component for implementing advanced, all-digital fieldbus architectures in process automation, supporting both basic regulatory control and sophisticated control-in-field strategies.

Designed for mission-critical process applications where system availability and data integrity are non-negotiable, the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 module’s defining feature is its built-in, active redundancy with two independent Foundation Fieldbus H1 channels. This robust design ensures continuous, uninterrupted communication even in the event of a single network segment failure, a critical requirement for continuous processes in industries such as oil and gas refining, chemical processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The module integrates natively into the S800 I/O system, where it functions as a Linking Device, managing the complete H1 network and ensuring precise, scheduled communication with all connected field devices. The value of the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 lies in its ability to enhance system resilience, maximize plant availability, and unlock the full potential of intelligent field devices by providing a robust and redundant infrastructure for the Foundation Fieldbus H1 protocol.

CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 ABB

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	CI858-1 3BSE018137R1
Manufacturer	ABB
Product Type	Redundant Foundation Fieldbus H1 Linking Device Module
Communication Protocol	Foundation Fieldbus H1 (IEC 61158-2)
Number of Channels	2 (Redundant, independent H1 channels)
Data Transfer Rate	31.25 kbit/s
Number of Devices Supported	Up to 16 devices per H1 segment
Physical Interface	2 x screw terminal blocks for redundant H1 networks
Intrinsic Safety	Supports connection to FISCO and Entity approved barriers
Scheduling	Fully compliant Link Active Scheduler (LAS)
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)
Storage Temperature	-40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F)
Certifications	UL, cULus, ATEX, IECEx, FM, CSA

Main Features and Advantages

The most significant advantage of the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 is its fully integrated, active redundancy for Foundation Fieldbus H1 networks. The dual, independent H1 channels ensure continuous process operation by providing automatic and bumpless switchover in the event of a segment failure, protecting against costly process interruptions. The module acts as the Link Active Scheduler (LAS) for its segments, managing the deterministic, scheduled communication cycle that is fundamental to the Foundation Fieldbus protocol. This ensures precise timing for critical control loops and allows for the implementation of advanced function blocks that can be executed within the field devices themselves, enabling control-in-field and reducing the load on the main controller.

Advanced engineering and device integration: Configuration of the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 and the entire Fieldbus segment is fully managed within ABB’s unified Control Builder engineering environment using the integrated Fieldbus Builder tool. This allows for seamless device configuration, function block scheduling, and network parameterization within a single platform. The module provides extensive diagnostic capabilities, offering detailed insights into the health of each field device, communication performance on the segment, and the status of both redundant channels. This comprehensive visibility is crucial for predictive maintenance, allowing users to monitor device health trends and address issues before they lead to process deviations or failures. The robust industrial design, coupled with certifications for use in hazardous areas, makes the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 a trusted component in the most demanding process environments.

Application Field

The CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 is strategically deployed in large-scale, continuous process industries where the reliability and advanced capabilities of Foundation Fieldbus H1 are required. In oil and gas refineries, the module is used to create redundant networks for critical process units such as catalytic crackers, reformers, and distillation columns, where it connects smart pressure, temperature, and flow transmitters with intelligent valve positioners to form complete control loops. In chemical processing plants, the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 provides the communication backbone for reactor control systems, batch processes, and utility areas, enabling advanced diagnostics and reducing wiring costs.

Within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, the module is essential for maintaining strict process control and data integrity in validated processes, connecting instruments in bioreactors, purification systems, and clean utilities. The power generation industry utilizes the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 for burner management and feedwater control systems. The module is the ideal solution for any greenfield or modernization project aiming to implement a fault-tolerant, all-digital fieldbus architecture that leverages the full potential of intelligent field devices for enhanced control, diagnostics, and operational efficiency within the ABB System 800xA or Symphony™ Plus environment.

Related Products

TU833 3BSE013258R1: A high-density S800 I/O unit base designed for communication modules like the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1.

AC 800M Controller (e.g., PM866): The high-performance controller that manages the S800 I/O station where the CI858-1 module resides.

S800 I/O Modules: Other modules that can reside in the same station for non-fieldbus signals.

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

Foundation Fieldbus H1 Field Devices: Smart transmitters, valve positioners, and analyzers from various manufacturers.

Fieldbus Power Conditioners and Barriers: Essential components for building the physical H1 segment, especially in hazardous areas.

Control Builder Professional with Fieldbus Builder: The essential engineering software for configuring the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 and its connected field devices.

CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 ABB

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1, ensure all power to the S800 I/O rack is disconnected. Verify the correct unit base (e.g., TU833) is installed. Meticulously plan the Foundation Fieldbus H1 segment design, including the device list, network topology, and calculated macrocycle for the LAS. Ensure the appropriate Fieldbus power conditioners and, if needed, intrinsic safety barriers are selected and available. Proper network design is critical for the stable operation of the CI858-1 3BSE018137R1.

Maintenance recommendations: The CI858-1 3BSE018137R1 requires minimal physical maintenance. The primary maintenance activities involve leveraging its advanced diagnostic capabilities. Regularly monitor the device and network status through the Control Builder software, paying attention to communication statistics and device health indicators provided by the connected field devices. The redundant design allows for maintenance on one H1 channel without disrupting the process. Periodically check the integrity of the field wiring connections at the module’s terminal block. Utilize the diagnostic data for predictive maintenance, identifying devices that may be nearing the end of their useful life.