Category: Industry Trends

BASEPLATE MOUNTING

The baseplate is available in two basic mounting

configurations — horizontal DIN rail mount or vertical

DIN rail mount. Either of these configurations can be

employed internal to, or external to an enclosure;

however, in all cases the DIN rail must be amply

supported, whether by means of metal braces, a

backplate, or a supporting wall.

In addition to DIN rail mounting of the baseplate, a

mounting kit is available for mounting the baseplate

horizontally in a standard, 483 mm (19 in) rack. The

kit provides a 25.4mm (1 in) mounting depth, to meet

clearance requirements at the front of the 19-inch

rack.

Figure 2 shows how baseplate implementation can be

extended using fiber optic cabling. In this

configuration, up to three module Fieldbus segments

can be fiber optic, allowing the baseplates to be

dispersed over a wider area. The FCM2Fs provide

three different fiber optic cabling distances between

baseplates: 2km (1.24 mi), 4 km (2.48 mi), or 10km

(6.2 mi). Refer to PSS21H-2Y3 B3 for additional

information on baseplate implementation using this

configuration.

The DIN rail mounted Fieldbus Module baseplate

provides a convenient, secure facility for the mounting

of DIN rail mounted Fieldbus Modules (FBMs) and

Fieldbus Communications Modules (FCMs). Its eight

mounting positions can accommodate up to eight

FBMs or a combination of FBMs and FCMs.The

baseplate also provides the necessary connectors for

redundant power, redundant module Fieldbus, and

termination cables.

PLUG-IN MODULES

The DIN rail mounted FBMs accommodated by the

baseplate are compact, plug-in modular assemblies

used to interface field devices with the host control

station. The FCMs, having the same form factor as

the FBMs, perform signal interface functions.

For example, FCM10Es are used to interface the

Ethernet trunk Fieldbus with the 2 Mbps module

Fieldbus, and FCM2Fs are used for fiber optic

communications extensions between baseplates. The

FBMs and FCMs plug onto the baseplate by means

of their two, 48-pin connectors, and each is fastened

in place by two screws.

Introduction

The Foxboro I/A Series® system, as introduced in 1987 was 

claimed to be ahead of its time. Fast forward to the current 

generation of automation technologies and Emerson is the clear 

choice to move your business forward for decades to come. 

Aging I/A Series systems need to be modernized and Emerson 

is committed to making your transition to a DeltaV™ system, 

smooth, low risk and cost effective. From early modernization 

planning to long term lifecycle care, Emerson has provided 

industry leading solutions and service to complete more than 

130 projects replacing Foxboro I/A Series systems. Partner with 

us for your transformation to a digital architecture, resulting in 

improved business performance and competitive edge.

Why Choose Emerson As Your 

Automation Partner?

Modernization projects are different. They require knowledge 

of both old and new technology and have fewer degrees of 

freedom than greenfield projects, i.e. space, time, and budget. 

The transition project will impact operations, often must be 

done during short shutdown windows and has the potential  

to put production at risk.

This puts a premium on risk reduction, flexibility,  

and capital efficiency.

OVERVIEW

The I/A Series system DCS Fieldbus Modules (FBMs) 

are for migration of APACS+™ automation systems 

manufactured by Siemens® Energy & Automation, 

Inc. and Moore Products Co. The FBMs plug directly 

into an existing electronic nest to replace process 

input and output modules.

The I/A Series system DCS FBM family provides a 

migration path from APACS+ process I/O 

components to I/A Series display and supervisory 

functions. No additional communication devices are 

required. No multi-vendor communication software 

licensing is required.

The I/A Series system DCS FBM family replaces the 

APACS+ I/O modules. Once integrated, the process 

is controlled entirely by the advanced I/A Series 

algorithm set.

The I/A Series system DCS FBM product includes 

connectors to enable integration of original process 

signals to I/A Series systems while keeping the field 

interface and wiring. It provides access to all process 

signals connected to the APACS+ system by 

providing the connection between the Field 

Termination Assemblies (FTAs) and the I/A Series 

system. All process signals become fully integrated 

into the I/A Series system through the use of process 

data for operator display, history, alarming and 

control.

Operator functions and engineering configuration are 

accomplished by the I/A Series system at any 

I/A Series operator workstation. Because all process 

values become part of the I/A Series system, all 

configuration data is maintained by the system as 

native I/A Series configurations.

This migration path provides plant operations with all 

the power and flexibility of the I/A Series system.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE

Invensys believes that it is only acceptable to 

interface with competing manufacturers’ operating 

systems in two ways:

 Through high level public gateways

 At the lowest level directly to field devices without 

communicating with proprietary buses or 

components.

The Invensys migration product offerings adhere to 

this principle.