Communication Interface | AC 800M | ABB CI868A

CI868A IEC 61850 Communication Interface

The CI868A IEC 61850 communication module from ABB enables integration between AC 800M controllers and substation automation systems. This advanced interface supports Edition 2 of the IEC 61850 standard for electrical substations. It bridges process automation and electrical control within a single controller platform.

Protocol and Communication Features

• Implements IEC 61850 Edition 2 standard for substation automation
• Supports both MMS client and GOOSE publisher/subscriber protocols
• Enables combination of process automation and electrical control systems
• Provides dual RJ45 Ethernet connectors on TP868 baseplate
• Operates at 10/100 Mbit/s speeds for flexible network integration

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: ABB
• Model Number: CI868A (Article 3BSE092691R1)
• Communication Protocol: IEC 61850 Edition 2
• Protocol Support: MMS (Client), GOOSE (Publisher & Subscriber)
• Transmission Speed: 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet
• Device Capacity: Supports 120 IEDs for GOOSE and 40 IEDs for MMS
• Maximum CEX Bus Units: 12 modules per AC 800M controller
• Network Connector: RJ-45 female (8-pin) Ethernet ports
• Power Consumption: 160 mA typical at 24V
• Power Dissipation: 3.8 Watts maximum

System Requirements and Compatibility

• Requires System 800xA version 6.0.3.3, 6.1.1 or later
• Compatible with HI Controller systems for industrial applications
• TP868 baseplate includes code lock for correct module installation
• Contains CEX-Bus logic, communication unit, and DC/DC converter
• Powered by +24V supply through the CEX-Bus connection
• Requires Ethernet switch connection to main network

Performance and Reliability Features

• Supports hot swap capability for maintenance without downtime
• Allows combined use of both MMS and GOOSE protocols simultaneously
• Baseplate code lock prevents installation of incorrect module types
• Designed for reliable operation in industrial substation environments
• Enables seamless integration between process and electrical systems

Environmental Specifications

• Operating Temperature: +5 to +55 °C (+41 to +131 °F)
• Storage Temperature: -40 to +70 °C (-40 to +158 °F)
• Relative Humidity: 5 to 95% non-condensing
• Maximum Altitude: 2000 meters according to IEC/EN 61131-2
• Pollution Degree: Degree 2 per IEC/EN 61131-2 standards
• Protection Rating: IP20 according to EN60529, IEC 529
• Corrosion Protection: G3 compliance to ISA 71.04

Certifications and Compliance

• CE marked for European market compliance
• UL 61010-1 and UL 61010-2-201 for electrical safety
• Hazardous location certification: UL 60079-15, cULus Class 1, Zone 2
• AEx nA IIC T4, ExnA IIC T4Gc X for explosive atmospheres
• Marine certificates: DNV-GL (with ABS, BV, LR pending)
• RoHS compliance: DIRECTIVE/2011/65/EU (EN 50581:2012)
• WEEE compliance: DIRECTIVE/2012/19/EU

Physical Dimensions

• Width: 59 mm (2.3 inches)
• Height: 185 mm (7.3 inches)
• Depth: 127.5 mm (5.0 inches)
• Weight: 700 g (1.5 pounds) including base unit

Installation and Configuration

• Connect Ethernet cables through switch to main substation network
• Ensure proper +24V power supply via CEX-Bus connection
• Verify System 800xA version compatibility before installation
• Configure IEC 61850 parameters for MMS and GOOSE communication
• Use TP868 baseplate with code lock feature for secure mounting
• Plan IED capacity according to project requirements and limits

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the main purpose of the CI868A? It connects AC 800M controllers to IEC 61850 substation devices.
• How many IEDs can one CI868A support? It supports 120 IEDs for GOOSE and 40 IEDs for MMS protocols.
• What protocols does the CI868A support? It supports MMS client and GOOSE publisher/subscriber protocols.
• Is module redundancy supported? No, the CI868A does not support module redundancy feature.
• What system software is required? It requires System 800xA version 6.0.3.3, 6.1.1 or later.