ABB CI801 – Communication Interface Module for S800 I/O
Product Overview
The ABB CI801 is a communication interface module used within the ABB S800 I/O series, providing secure and efficient data exchange between the I/O system and various fieldbus or controller environments. It is typically applied in distributed control systems (DCS) such as ABB AC 800M, extending connectivity for industrial automation, process control, and plant-wide monitoring.
Built for high reliability and modular expansion, the CI801 enables remote I/O station communication and supports deterministic real-time data processing—essential in power generation, oil & gas, chemical plants, and factory automation.
Key Features
Interfaces S800 I/O modules with PROFIBUS-DP fieldbus
Supports hot-swap and online configuration changes
Built-in diagnostic LEDs for power, module status, and communication status
Full galvanic isolation for noise immunity and equipment protection
Seamless integration into ABB 800xA control architecture
Supports extended temperature ranges and harsh-environment operation
Automatic device recognition and addressing for fast commissioning
Flexible mounting in redundant or standalone I/O stations
Main Specifications
| Parameter |
Description |
| Module Type |
S800 I/O Communication Interface |
| Supported Protocol |
PROFIBUS-DP (DP-V1) |
| Power Consumption |
Approx. 1 W |
| Isolation |
Galvanic isolation between fieldbus and internal electronics |
| Module Housing |
Plastic enclosure, DIN-rail mounted |
| Operating Temperature |
−25°C to +70°C |
| Communication Speed |
Up to 12 Mbit/s |
| LED Indicators |
Module OK, Fieldbus Status, Error |
| Compatible Baseplate |
TU801, TU842, TU845, etc. |
| System Integration |
ABB AC 800M / 800xA / Freelance |
| Certification |
CE, UL, and industrial EMC compliant |
Internal Structure & Components
Fieldbus Interface Controller – Manages cyclic and acyclic data exchanges
On-board Status LEDs – Real-time fault and link condition monitoring
Backplane Bus Connector – Links module to S800 terminal units and power rails
Microprocessor for Diagnostics – Handles network addressing & error handling
Shielded PROFIBUS Port – Standard DB9 or terminal block interface
Common Application Areas
Power generation turbine control cabinets
Paper & pulp mill distributed automation
Oil and gas process skids and hazardous-area systems
Pharmaceutical and food process monitoring
Wastewater and municipal plant SCADA interfaces
Retrofit upgrades for legacy fieldbus-based I/O
Installation & Commissioning Notes
Mount directly onto TU-series terminal base before powering system
Ensure PROFIBUS cable shield is properly grounded to avoid EMC interference
Addressing and baud rate are configured via control software or DIP settings
Redundant architectures supported when paired in dual-CI configuration
Always update 800xA hardware library to match module revision
Maintenance & Support
Module supports online replacement without shutting down the I/O station
Continuous self-diagnostics reported to the control system event list
Firmware updates available from ABB Automation repository
Periodic inspection of fieldbus connectors recommended in high-vibration zones
Spare strategy: 1 module per 25-30 nodes is typical for industrial plants
Additional Notes
The CI801 is part of a family that includes CI802, CI803, CI840A, etc., each optimized for different networks (PROFIBUS, Advant, Ethernet, etc.)
Frequently used in combination with AI801 / DI801 / AO801 / DO801 I/O modules for complete field signal connectivity
Can be deployed in redundant S800 I/O stations for high-availability control systems
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