Foxboro™ DCS

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

PSS 41H-2FDC280
Product Specification

July 2020

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Overview Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Overview
The Field Device Controller 280 is a distributed, optionally fault-tolerant, field-mounted
controller that performs process control and alarming functions according to a user-
defined control strategy, as well as providing direct field device integration without the
need for additional Foxboro™ DCS Fieldbus Modules (FBMs).
The primary purpose of the Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) is device
integration, including interfacing Ethernet and Serial field devices, accessing data in
those devices for display, historization, and performing control tasks. The FDC280
performs regulatory, logic, timing, and sequential control internally. It also performs
alarm detection and notification.
The FDC280 runs a dual-core CPU to provide two computational environments for the
FDC280. Core 1 (Control Core) runs the FDC280’s control software and Foxboro DCS
Control Network communications software. Core 2 (I/O Core) runs additional features,
in this case, the device integration software.
The FDC280 communicates directly with field devices which support the protocols
listed in these PSSs:
• PSS 41S-3FDCMBDV, Modbus Master TCP Driver for Field Device Controller
280
• PSS 41S-3FDCMBRT, Modbus Master RTU Serial Driver for Field Device
Controller 280
• PSS 41S-3FDCTSAA, Triconex™ System Access Application Driver for Field
Device Controller 280
The FDC280 connects to the Control Network via standard fiber optic or copper 100
Mbps Ethernet cables from network adapters installed on its baseplate (shown in the
figure below).
The FDC280 requires a host workstation with Foxboro DCS Control Core Services
software v9.3 or later.
The FDC280 is certified ISASecure™ EDSA Level 1.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 3

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Overview

Figure 1 - Fault-Tolerant FDC280 Module Pair Mounted on 2-Position FDC280

Baseplate

Legend
A To The Foxboro DCS Control Network
B and C Network Adapters (Fiber Adapters Shown)
D and E Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
F Time Strobe Connectors (A/B)
G To Ethernet I/O Switches and Field Devices
H Ethernet I/O Port for Right FDC280*
I Ethernet I/O Port for Left FDC280*
J Serial I/O Port for Right FDC280**
K Serial I/O Port for Left FDC280**
L Right FDC280
M Down-Arrow Button
N Up-Arrow Button
O Select Button
P Ground
Q Left FDC280
R Power
* These Ethernet ports enable communications via the customer-supplied
dedicated network to the field devices.
** These Serial ports enable communications via the customer-supplied dedicated
network to the field devices.

The fault-tolerant version of the FDC280 consists of two controller modules. These
modules are installed in adjacent FDC280 slots in dedicated baseplates for high
speed communication between the modules.

4 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

Overview Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

The FDC280 baseplate also includes the following types of connectors:

• Two Cat 5 RJ-45 connectors for Time Strobe connections that allow time strobe
cables to connect directly to the baseplate without the need for Time Strobe
Adapters.
• Two 10/100 Mbps or 1 Gbps copper Cat 5e or Cat 6 Ethernet RJ-45 connectors
for Ethernet connections to supported field devices (via customer-supplied
Ethernet switches).
• Two 37-pin D-type connectors, each of which supports four Serial ports (to field
devices via supported termination assemblies). Use the Compact Type 5 cables
in Table 1 to connect the FDC280’s baseplate to the termination assemblies.
Unlike the Foxboro DCS Field Control Processor 280 (FCP280), the FDC280 does not
support the PIO bus, as it is designed primarily for field device integration using the
Ethernet and Serial protocols.
To estimate the FDC280’s processor load, refer to Field Device Controller 280
(FDC280) Sizing Guidelines and Excel Workbook (B0700GS).
For a description of the FDC280 baseplate, refer to the Standard 200 Series
Baseplates (PSS 41H-2SBASPLT).

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 5

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Ethernet Network Configurations

FDC280 Ethernet Network Configurations

The FDC280 supports various Ethernet network configurations to connect with
supported field devices. The FDC280 can connect directly to field devices with
Ethernet I/O, or to field devices with Serial I/O via a protocol-specific gateway that
performs the Ethernet-to-Serial I/O bridging.

Simplex FDC280 to Ethernet Field Devices Configuration

A simplex, non-fault-tolerant FDC280 connects to Ethernet field devices, as shown in
Figure 2.

Figure 2 - Non-Fault-Tolerant FDC280 to Ethernet Field Devices (Simplified)

FDC280

Ethernet Connection

Serial Connection

Customer-Supplied Dedicated Ethernet Network(1)

Protocol
Field Device Specific
Gateway

Field Device
Field Device

Field Device

(1)
We recommend using managed switches for maintenance and troubleshooting.
However, field devices may also connect directly to the FDC280 baseplate without the
Ethernet switches or hubs, which are part of the customer-supplied Ethernet network.
A simplex connection, such as this configuration, saves on cabling since it does not
require a redundant connection to the field device’s Ethernet I/O network from the
FDC280.

6 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Ethernet Network Configurations Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Fault-Tolerant FDC280 to Ethernet Field Devices over Separate

Networks Configuration
Fault-Tolerant FDC280s can connect to Ethernet field devices over separate networks
as shown in this figure.

Figure 3 - Fault-Tolerant FDC280s to Ethernet Field Devices in Separate

Networks
FDC280
Left FDC280 Ethernet Connection

Right FDC280 Ethernet Connection

Left Serial Connection

Right Serial Connection

192.168.0.1 192.168.0.1 (2)

Customer-Supplied Customer-Supplied
Dedicated Ethernet Dedicated Ethernet
Network (1) Network (1)

192.168.0.2
Field Device
192.168.0.2

192.168.0.3
Field Device
192.168.0.3

192.168.0.4 192.168.0.4
Protocol Protocol
Specific Specific
Gateway Gateway

Field Device

Field Device

(1)
When connecting to field devices via a network, we recommend using managed
switches for maintenance and troubleshooting. Network is optional.
Each FDC280 module in a fault-tolerant pair may have the same IP address or may
have a unique IP address when configured for redundant I/O networks. The FDC280
also supports field devices with redundant ports on redundant networks, where each
port may have the same or a unique IP address.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 7

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Ethernet Network Configurations

Fault-Tolerant FDC280 to Ethernet Field Devices over Common

Networks Configuration
Fault-Tolerant FDC280s can connect to Ethernet field devices over a common
network as shown in this figure. In cases where field devices do not need separate I/O
networks, a common I/O network can be used. A common network allows for a fault-
tolerant FDC280 to connect to single-ported field devices.

Figure 4 - Fault-Tolerant FDC280s to Ethernet Field Devices in Common

Network
Left FDC280 Right FDC280

Left FDC280 Ethernet Connection

Right FDC280 Ethernet Connection

192.168.0.1 192.168.0.11

Customer-Supplied Dedicated Ethernet Network

192.168.0.2 192.168.0.5
Field Device Field Device
192.168.0.12

192.168.0.3 192.168.0.6
Field Device Field Device
192.168.0.13

192.168.0.4 192.168.0.14 192.168.0.7

Protocol Protocol Protocol
Specific Specific Specific
Gateway Gateway Gateway

Serial Connection Serial Connection

Field Device Field Device

Field Device Field Device

(1)
We recommend using managed switches for maintenance and troubleshooting.
However, field devices may also connect directly to the FDC280 baseplate without the
Ethernet switches or hubs, which are part of the customer-supplied Ethernet network.
NOTE: For example, IP addresses use subnet 192.168.0.x with subnet mask
255.255.255.0.

8 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Serial Network Configurations Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

FDC280 Serial Network Configurations

The FDC280 has four Serial ports. Each port can be individually configured for RS-
232, RS-422, or RS-485. In non-redundant configurations, a simplex FDC280 is used
for interfacing single ported field devices. In redundant configurations, the fault
tolerant FDC280s (Left/Right) can both interface dual-ported and single-ported field
devices (RS-232 via a Y cable). The FDC280 supports up to 128 RS-485 field devices
distributed over its four ports. On a port configured for RS-485 protocol, the maximum
number of devices supported is 32.

Simplex FDC280 to Serial Field Devices Configuration

A simplex, non-fault-tolerant FDC280 connects to Serial field devices via supported
termination assemblies as shown in this figure.

Figure 5 - FDC280 Simplex in Typical Serial Network Configurations

FDC280
Simplex
Control
Network

Termination TA
Assembly 1 2 3 4

Four Ports
See below for typical connections.

TA TA
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

Modem/ Modem/
Device Field Field
Device
Devices Devices

Field Field
Modem/ Modem/ Devices Devices
Device Device

RS-232/RS-422 RS-485 multidrop

Direct connection. without modems or converters.
Single ported devices. Single ported devices.

NOTE: Each FDC280 port (1 through 4) can be individually configured for RS-
232, RS-422, or RS-485 communication standards.

Fault Tolerant FDC280 to Serial Field Devices Configuration

Fault-tolerant FDC280s can connect to Serial field devices via supported termination
assemblies as shown in these two figures.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 9

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Serial Network Configurations

Figure 6 - Fault-Tolerant FDC280 to Dual-Ported Serial Devices in Typical

Network Configurations

FDC280 FDC280
Left Right
Control
Network

Termination TA TA
Assembly 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

Four Ports
See below for typical connections.

TA TA
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

RS-485 multidrop
Dependent without modems or converters.
Devices Dual-ported devices.
Dependent
Devices

TA TA
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

Modem/
Modem/ Device
Device
Modem/
Device
RS-232/RS-422
Modem/ Dual-ported devices only.
Device

NOTE: Each FDC280 port (1 through 4) can be individually configured for RS-
232, RS-422, or RS-485 communication standards.

10 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Serial Network Configurations Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Figure 7 - Fault-Tolerant FDC280 to Single-Ported Serial Devices in Typical

Configurations
FDC280
RS-232 Configuration

Termination Assembly (Left) Termination Assembly (Right)

RS-232 Ports RS-232 Ports

RS-485/422 Ports RS-485/422 Ports
P1 P2 P3 P4 P1 P2 P3 P4

RS-232 Y-Cable

Single-Ported
RS-232 Device

RS-485 2-Wire Configuration

Termination Assembly (Left) Termination Assembly (Right)

RS-232 Ports RS-232 Ports

RS-485/422 Ports RS-485/422 Ports
P1 P2 P3 P4 P1 P2 P3 P4

Single-Ported Single-Ported
RS-485 Device RS-485 Device

RS-422 4-Wire Configuration

Termination Assembly (Left) Termination Assembly (Right)

RS-232 Ports RS-232 Ports

RS-485/422 Ports RS-485/422 Ports
P1 P2 P3 P4 P1 P2 P3 P4

Single-Ported
RS-422 Device

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 11

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Features

Features
• Supports up to 256 field devices, up to 8,000 soft I/O points, and up to 8,252 total
blocks. For sizing guidelines, including examples of valid block count
combinations, refer to Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Sizing Guidelines
and Excel Workbook (B0700GS).
• Supports up to 128 Serial field devices with a maximum of 32 devices per each
Serial port.
• Supports up to 32 instances of concurrent drivers including:
◦ Multiple instances of the same driver
◦ Multiple versions of the same driver
◦ Multiple protocols
◦ One instance of the Diagnostic Driver
• Supports diagnosing communication issues with Ethernet or Serial devices with
no physical disruption to device interfaces with a Diagnostic Driver. The driver
can be configured to send all the messages exchanged with any device to a
diagnostic application running on a workstation connected to the I/O Ethernet
network.
• Support for multiple types of field devices using specific drivers.
• Performs regulatory, logic, timing, and sequential control internally.
• Performs data acquisition and alarm detection and notification.
• Supports self-hosting mode, which allows the FDC280 to boot itself with a valid
control database even without its host workstation being online.
• Offers unique, patented, fault-tolerant operation using two control modules for
communications over the Control Network. The FDC280 always supports
redundant communications to the customer-supplied network that connects to the
field device. However, if the field device is single-ported, the redundant cabling
can only be extended to the switch if the device is Ethernet or the TA if the device
is Serial.
• Provides separate Image Update capabilities for Major (typically new features
and functions) and Minor software updates.
◦ The Major Image Update process introduces significant new functionality that
is not compatible with an online upgrade approach.
◦ The Minor Image Update process can perform updates with no bump to the
process other than a module failover.
• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) displays letterbug and real-time roles and statuses.
• Uses soft letterbugs configurable via the buttons on the FDC280 faceplate.
• Connects to the Control Network via standard fiber optic or copper 100 Mbps
Ethernet cables.
• Uses a rugged, die cast aluminum housing for mounting in a non-vented field
enclosure.
• Can operate in Class G3 harsh environments.
• CE certified for field mounting in enclosures.
• Uses versatile control algorithms to provide control capabilities for a broad range
of process applications.
• Supports time synchronization using optional external time from GPS satellites.

12 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

Features Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Fiber and Copper Network Adapters

FDC280 modules connect to a pair of fiber or copper adapters (see this figure) which
each connect to one Ethernet switch in the Control Network. The FDC280 baseplate
passes inbound traffic from either of the two switches to both FDC280s, and passes
outbound traffic from the primary FDC280 module to either switch.

Figure 8 - Fiber Optic and Copper Network Adapters

Fiber Adapter (RH924WA) Copper Adapter (RH924UQ)

The fiber or copper adapters mount on the FDC280 baseplate as shown in Figure 1,
page 3. They receive their power from the baseplate.

Remote Mounting
The FDC280 simplifies the Foxboro DCS architecture when integrating field devices.
It requires housing (via field enclosures), host workstations with Control Core Services
v9.3 or later, and Ethernet switches for communication via the Control Network
architecture, described in The Foxboro DCS Control Network Ethernet Equipment
(PSS 41H-7NWEQUIP), as well as customer-supplied switches for field device
communication.
The field-mounted FDC280 is an integral part of the highly-distributed Control Network
where controllers are installed in a central location, then connected remotely to their I/
O and the actual equipment being controlled via a customer-supplied dedicated
network. Coordination between process units takes place via the Foxboro DCS
Control Network, a fiber optic 100 Mbps Ethernet network. Coordination between the
FDC280 and its I/O field devices takes place over a customer-supplied dedicated
copper 10/100 Mbps or 1 Gbps Ethernet network.
The FDC280 is packaged in a rugged, die cast aluminum housing that does not
require venting due to its efficient design. The FDC280 and its network adapters are
CE certified, and can be mounted without expensive special cabinets to help prevent
electronic emissions. The FDC280, network adapters, and baseplate can be mounted
in Class G3 harsh environments.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 13

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Features

Enhanced Reliability
Fault-Tolerance over the Foxboro DCS Control Network
When two FDC280s are installed on the same FDC280 baseplate and have two
Ethernet connections to the Foxboro DCS Control Network, they undergo a “marriage”
operation, which allows them to provide a continuous connection to the control
network to allow fault-tolerant operation to be possible. This is a unique and patented
operation which improves availability over the use of a single FDC280.
Both modules receive and process information simultaneously, and faults are
detected by the modules themselves. One of the significant methods of fault detection
is comparison of Control Network communication messages at the module external
interfaces. Messages for the Control Network only (not for the field devices) leave the
FDC280 when both FDC280s agree on the message being sent (bit for bit match).
NOTE: Communications between the FDC280s and the field devices are
considered redundant, not fault-tolerant, as fault-tolerant types of checks are not
performed over the two Ethernet connections that the FDC280s use to
communicate to the customer-configured field device network.
Upon identifying a detected fault, self-diagnostics are run by both FDC280s to
determine which module is affected. The non-affected module then assumes control
without affecting normal system operations.
This is called “fault-tolerancy” although it is not the only fault-tolerant operation that
the FDC280 supports.

Core 1 CPU Fault-Tolerance

The Core 1 CPUs in a fault-tolerant pair of FDC280s also operate in a fault-tolerant
fashion, with a Primary and Shadow Core 1. If the FDC280 detects any issues with
the operation of the Primary Core 1, the Primary and Shadow FDC280s swap roles.

Core 2 CPU Redundancy

The Core 2 CPUs in the Primary and Shadow FDC280s operate in a redundant
manner. Both Primary and Shadow Core 2 CPUs evaluate and independently publish
their diagnostic statuses and device connection statuses (of enabled devices). If the
Primary Core 2 detects any fault on its own side, it compares its statuses to or against
the statuses reported by the Shadow Core 2. If the Shadow Core 2 is seen to have a
better connectivity to the devices, the Primary Core 2 relinquishes its Primary role by
resetting itself.

I/O Side Redundancy

The redundancy of the FDC280 pair on the I/O side of the network, coupled with the
high coverage of detected faults, provides very high subsystem availability time.
Either FDC280 may be replaced without upsetting field I/O signals to the other
module. An FDC280 can be removed or replaced without removing power from the
FDC280 baseplate.
The Primary FDC280 accesses the field devices for reading and writing I/O points
while the Shadow FDC280 uses heartbeat commands to check the connection status
of the devices. The Shadow FDC280 is updated with the I/O point values internally, so
if the Primary FDC280 loses connection to one or more devices with the Shadow
FDC280 having good connections to all devices, the failover operation occurs with no
bump to the process. Field data from the new Primary FDC280 starts flowing into the
process as soon as the devices are able to accept new connections for data access.

14 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

Features Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Time Synchronization
The Foxboro DCS System supports time synchronization using either:
• An externally maintained optional source of Universal Coordinated Time (UTC)
from GPS satellites
• An internal source using proprietary software to synchronize the Foxboro DCS
Main TimeKeeper that in turn synchronizes the time in the FDC280
All input data from the field is time stamped as it is received by the FDC280, scanned
with a minimum scan time of 10 times per second. For more information, see the Time
Synchronization Overview Product Specification (PSS 41S-1TIME).
Time stamping is used for alarm messages, values sent to the Historian, and
optionally for the input data from the field when received from the field devices that do
not support time stamping.
Time strobe signals are delivered from custom switches over Ethernet cables directly
connected to the FDC280 baseplate.

Control Features
The FDC280 performs regulatory, logic, timing, and sequential control, as well as data
acquisition, alarm detection, and alarm notification. Process variables are controlled
using time-proven algorithms (mathematical computations performing specific
functions). The algorithms are contained in functional control blocks, which on-site
process engineers configure to implement the desired control strategies.
The versatility of the algorithms provides control capabilities suited to a broad range of
process applications, which allows the FDC280 to scan a high number of external
device points. Control strategies ranging from simple feedback and cascade loops to
highly sophisticated feedforward, nonlinear, and complex characterization control
schemes are readily implemented.
The FDC280 also supports an optional self-hosting mode that allows the FDC280 to
start up and run, executing its configured control scheme using the checkpoint file
stored in flash memory. This allows the FDC280 to boot itself with a valid control
database even if its host workstation is not present.

FDC280 Baseplate
The FDC280 is installed on a modular, DIN rail mounted baseplate in a dedicated slot
that is keyed for the controller, ensuring the modules cannot be installed in baseplate
slots for which they are not designed. The FDC280 baseplate is shown in Figure 1,
page 3.
This 2-position baseplate supports a non-fault-tolerant single or fault-tolerant pair of
FDC280s, as well as two copper (RH924UQ) or fiber (RH924WA) adapters, required
for connection to the Control Network.
The FDC280 baseplate provides two 10/100 Mbps or 1 Gbps copper Ethernet RJ-45
connectors for Ethernet connectors to field devices (via customer-supplied Ethernet
switches).
The FDC280 baseplates can be added in the field to existing or new configurations.
The standard FDC280 baseplates have larger dimensions than the FCP270 or
FCP280 standard 2-position baseplates, but use less space than a control processor-
and-FBMs solution. The FDC280 baseplate can be installed on either a horizontal or
vertical DIN rail, provided that the baseplate itself remains in the orientation shown in
Figure 1, page 3. However, to meet Marine certification requirements, it must be
installed on a horizontal DIN rail only.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 15

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Features

LED Indicators
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on the front of the FDC280 module provide visual
indication of the:
• FDC280 operational status
• Operational status of the Ethernet connection to the field devices
LED indicators on the copper or fiber network adapters provide visual indication for:
• Internal and external power supply health status
• Communications activity to the Control Network A and B links, and to the FDC280
(s)

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

The FDC280 has a liquid crystal display (LCD) on its faceplate, which displays various
status and identification information:
• The first line typically displays the FDC280’s letterbug and role (Primary/Shadow/
Single), and if the FDC280 is installed in the left-most or right-most slot in its
baseplate.
• The second line displays the FDC280's part number, FDC280 image version,
hardware revision information (including manufacture date), and the Foxboro
DCS Control Network Ethernet connections status.

16 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Functional Specifications Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

FDC280 Functional Specifications

Processor Type Control Processor:
Dual core ARM® System on a Chip (SOC) with stored programs, using high-speed
communication capability.
Error Detection:
ECC providing single-bit error detection and correction as well as multiple-bit error
detection.
Process I/O Capacity 256 field devices
Scan up to 8,000 field points, with a minimum scan time of 100 ms
Maximum Number of Supports a maximum of 8,252 blocks including the Station block, ECB compounds,
Blocks Configured Primary ECBs, and Standard ECBs required to support 256 devices, 8,000 I/O points,
and their associated Control blocks. For sizing guidelines, including examples of valid
block count combinations, refer to Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Sizing
Guidelines and Excel Workbook (B0700GS).
Block Executions Per 16,000 blocks/second, maximum
Second
Maximum Number of The number of blocks that can be processed per block processing cycle (BPC) time
Blocks Processed interval depends on scan periods and block type selection. These blocks include all
types (control blocks, ECBs, compounds, data blocks, and so forth). For sizing
guidelines, see Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Sizing Guidelines and Excel
Workbook (B0700GS).
Minimum Block 100 ms
Processing Cycle (BPC)
Sequence Block Size 32 KB maximum for each block
Maximum Number of 231;200 connections for source points; 30 connections for sink points; 1 connection for
IPC Connections internal use only

30 IPC connections 200 IPC connections

FDC280

An IPC connection provides the means to exchange continuous process control

information.
A Source point is defined as a connection to a destination device that can have data
sourced by a given CP. Thus an FDC280 can provide data to up to 200 destination
stations.
A Sink point is defined as an external point to which the FDC280 can connect to
acquire process control data. The FDC280 can receive continuous updates from up to
30 other data sources.
Maximum Number of OM 75 lists
Sink Lists
A Sink list is a list of items to be delivered to a particular destination. These lists provide
an efficient way to group updates to a given destination.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 17

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Functional Specifications

Maximum OM Scanner 28,000 maximum points

Database
18,000 points/second, maximum rate of OM scanner change before ignition of throttling
mechanism
18,000 points for BPC ≥ 200 ms
7,500 points for BPC = 100 ms
The Object Manager (OM) scanner database is the total of all points in the control
scheme for which the FDC280 is scanning and providing updates to other stations.
Maximum Number of OM 11,250 points
Sink Points
The OM sink point limitations refer to the number of points that can be received from
outside sources.
Configurable Block 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 0.6, 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, 30 seconds
Periods
1, 10, 60 minutes
Block Processing Cycle 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0 seconds, selectable at system configuration time
Time to Marry Fault- Less than 0.5 seconds
Tolerant Modules
Internal Diagnostics Self-checking performed at power-up. Run-time diagnostics performed during normal
operations.
When FDC280s are configured as a fault-tolerant pair, constant synchronization
checking and message compare operations for messages communicated over the
Control Network are also used to detect hardware faults.
Power Requirements Input voltage (redundant voltage): 24 V dc typical
Consumption (per non-redundant module: 8.5 W, maximum
Regulatory Compliance:
• EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC) Meets: EN 61326-1 Class A Emissions and Industrial Immunity Levels.

Regulatory Compliance:
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for U.S. and Canada
Product Safety
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for U.S. and Canada UL/UL-C listed as suitable for
use in Class I, Groups A-D; Division 2; enclosure based systems when installed.
Communications circuits also meet the requirements for Class 2 as defined in
Article 725 of the National Electrical Code (NFPA No.70) and Section 16 of the
Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1). For more information, see Standard and
Compact 200 Series Subsystem User's Guide (B0400FA).
• European Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and Explosive Atmospheres (ATEX)
Directive 2014/34/EU
ATEX (DEMKO) Ex nA IIC T4 Gc certified when installed as described in the
Standard and Compact 200 Series Subsystem User's Guide (B0400FA). For use in
an enclosure suited for an ATEX Zone 2 classified area.
RoHS Compliance Complies with European RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU, including amending Directives
2015/863 and 2017/2102.
Regulatory Compliance: ISASecure™ Certification, EDSA Level 1
Security

18 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Environmental Specifications Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

FDC280 Environmental Specifications

Operating Storage
Temperature -20 to 60°C (-4 to 140°F) -40 to +70°C (-40 to +158°F)
Relative 5 to 95% (Noncondensing) 5 to 95% (Noncondensing)
Humidity
Altitude Up to +3,000 m (+10,000 ft) -300 to +12,000 m (-1,000 to +40,000 ft)
Per MIL-STD 810G, method 500.5, PI
Contamination Class G3 (Harsh) as defined in ISA
Standard, S71.04. No effect on functionality
after simulated 10-year exposure to mixed
gas testing per EIA Standard 364-65A,
Class III.
The FDC280 has Conformal Coating.
Vibration 0.5 g (5 to 500 Hz)

NOTE: The environmental limits of this module may be enhanced by the type of
enclosure containing the module. Refer to the applicable Product Specification
Sheet (PSS) that describes the specific type of enclosure that is to be used.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 19

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Physical Specifications

FDC280 Physical Specifications

Configuration Single processor module. The fault-tolerant version consists of two processor modules,
with an interconnecting fault-tolerant connector integral to the baseplate.
Mounting May be placed in device specific 2-position baseplates designed for horizontal or
vertical mounting.
For the fault-tolerant FDC280, the two modules must be mounted in dedicated slots to
allow for interconnecting fault-tolerant communication and to allow for the proper
airflow to cool the modules.
Dimensions: Module • Height: 105 mm (4.13 in) or 116 mm (4.59 in) including mounting lugs
• Width: 51.8 mm (2.04 in)
• Depth: 147 mm (5.80 in)
Weight (Maximum) • Module:
0.8 kg (1.78 lb) for a single, non-fault-tolerant module.
• Termination Assemblies for Serial Communications:
◦ Ring Lug (P0926PA)(a):
363 g (0.8 lb) approximate
◦ Compression Screw (RH926GH)
272 g (0.6 lb) approximate
Part Numbers • FDC280: RH101FQ
• FDC280 Baseplate: RH101KF
• Fiber Adapter: RH924WA (Rev. E or later)
• Copper Adapter: RH924UQ (Rev. D or later)
• Termination Assemblies for Serial Communications:
◦ TA Ring Lug: P0926PA(a)
◦ TA Compression Screw: RH926GH
Control Network Cabling Connectors:
Ethernet Switch to
• Fiber Adapter: Two ceramic type LC connectors on one end (for network adapters)
FDC280 Cabling
with an MT-RJ connector on the other end (for switch)
• Copper Adapter: RJ-45 connectors on both ends
Fiber Optic Cable:
• Cable Material: Multimode fiber (MMF) 62.5/125 µm plenum
• Cable Lengths: Up to 50 m (164 ft) – Foxboro supplied. Refer to “Network Cabling
for FDC280 Network Adapters” in B0700GQ for the appropriate specifications of
allowed fiber optic cabling. Greater than 50 m – user supplied
• Maximum Length: 2 km (6,560 ft) from the Ethernet switch to the FDC280
Copper Cable:
• Cable Material: 1000Base-T Cat 5 copper Ethernet cable
• Cable Lengths: Up to 100 m (328 ft) – Foxboro supplied. Refer to “Network Cabling
for FDC280 Network Adapters” in B0700GQ for the appropriate specifications of
allowed copper cabling
• Maximum Length: 100 m (328 ft) from the Ethernet switch to the FDC280

20 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Physical Specifications Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Field Device Ethernet Cabling Connectors:

Switch to FDC280
• 10/100 Mbps or 1 Gbps copper Ethernet RJ-45 connectors on both ends
Cabling
Copper Cable:
• Cable Material: 1000Base-T Cat 5e or Cat 6 copper Ethernet cable
• Cable Lengths: Up to 100 m (328 ft) – Foxboro supplied. Refer to “Network Cabling
for FDC280 Network Adapters” in B0700GQ for the appropriate specifications of
allowed copper cabling
• Maximum Length: 100 m (328 ft) from the Ethernet switch to the FDC280
FDC280 to Termination Use the Compact Type 5 cables in Table 1 to connect the FDC280’s baseplate to the
Assembly Serial Cabling termination assemblies for Serial connections.
Bus Characteristics • General:
Electronic Industrial Association (EIA) RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485
communications selectable on a per port basis. The RS-485 physical
communication medium consists of twisted-pair shielded copper cable containing a
single conductor pair. The RS-422 is a 4-wire physical communication medium.
The RS-232 physical communication medium is a DB-25 cable to a customer
supplied device/modem/converter.
• EIA RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 I/O Communication:
Asynchronous communication, direct connect link (RS-232).
◦ Transmission rate: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600
and 115200 baud
◦ Protocol: 8-bit characters; odd, even or no parity,1 or 2 stop bits
(a) This is not an RoHS part.

Figure 9 - FDC280 Dimensions

116 mm
4.59 in 105 mm
(including 4.13 in
mounting
lugs)

147 mm
5.8 in

51.8 mm
2.04 in

Table 1 - Termination Cables (Type 5) for the FDC280 Serial Termination

Assemblies

Cable Part Number Length

RH100HV 1.0m (3.3 ft)
RH100HW 1.5m (4.9 ft)

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 21

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Physical Specifications

Table 1 - Termination Cables (Type 5) for the FDC280 Serial Termination

Assemblies (Continued)

Cable Part Number Length

RH100HX 2.0m (6.6 ft)
RH100HY 3.0m (9.8 ft)
RH100HZ 5.0m (16.4 ft)

Table 2 - RS-232 Communication Cables, Single Ported Device to Single TA

(Simplex FDC280)

Option Length Cable Part

Number
RS-232 VT100 6m (20 ft) RH970XD
12m (40 ft) RH970WY
RS-232 Modem 6m (20 ft) RH970XC
12m (40 ft) RH970WX
DCE (Local) 6m (20 ft) RH970XD
12m (40 ft) RH970WY

Table 3 - RS-232 Communication Cables, Single Ported Device to Two TAs (Fault
Tolerant FDC280)

Option Length Cable Part Number

RS-232 Y-Cable 6m (20 ft) RH100MM
12m (40 ft) RH100MNP

22 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Baseplate Functional Specifications Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

FDC280 Baseplate Functional Specifications

Power Requirements
• Input Voltage Range (Redundant): 24 V dc +5%, -10%
• Power Cabling Cable Lengths: 0.4 m (16 in) up to 2.1 m (7 ft)
Regulatory Compliance,
• EMC Directive 2014/30/EU:
Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC) Meets: EN 61326-1 Class A Emissions and Industrial Immunity Levels.

Regulatory Compliance,
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for U.S. and Canada:
Product Safety
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for U.S. and Canada UL/UL-C listed as suitable for
use in Class I, Groups A-D; Division 2; enclosure based systems when installed.
Communications circuits also meet the requirements for Class 2 as defined in
Article 725 of the National Electrical Code (NFPA No.70) and Section 16 of the
Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1). For more information, see Standard and
Compact 200 Series Subsystem User's Guide (B0400FA).
• European Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and Explosive Atmospheres (ATEX)
Directive 2014/34/EU:
ATEX (DEMKO) Ex nA IIC T4 Gc certified when installed as described in the
Standard and Compact 200 Series Subsystem User's Guide (B0400FA). For use in
an enclosure suited for an ATEX Zone 2 classified area.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 23

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) FDC280 Baseplate Environmental Specifications

FDC280 Baseplate Environmental Specifications

Operating Storage
Temperature -20 to +70°C (-4 to +158°F) -40 to +70°C (-40 to +158°F)
Relative Humidity 5 to 95% (Noncondensing) 5 to 95% (Noncondensing)
Altitude -300 to +3,000 m (-1,000 to -300 to +12,000 m (-1,000 to +40,000 ft)
+10,000 ft)
Contamination (Non- Class G3 (Harsh) as defined in ISA Standard S71.04
Enclosure Mounted)
Contamination Class G3 (Harsh) as defined in ISA Standard S71.04.
(Enclosure Mounted)
Pollution degree 2 as defined in IEC 664-1.

NOTE: The environmental limits of the 200 Series baseplates may be enhanced
by the type of enclosure containing the 200 Series baseplate. Refer to the
applicable Product Specification Sheet (PSS) that describes the specific type of
enclosure that is to be used.

24 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

FDC280 Baseplate Physical Specifications Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

FDC280 Baseplate Physical Specifications

Mounting
• DIN Rail:
FDC280 baseplates mount on a non-isolated, mechanically supported vertical or
horizontal DIN rail, which can be internal to, or external to an enclosure. The
FDC280 baseplate attaches to the DIN rail by means of fasteners. However, to
meet Marine certification requirements, the baseplate must be installed on a
horizontal DIN rail only.
• Rack Mount:
A mounting kit (P0930AS) is available for horizontal mounting of the FDC280
baseplate in a standard, 483 mm (19-inch) rack. This kit provides a 25.4 mm (1
inch) mounting depth.
Rack Mounting Bracket Material: Steel, Cold-Rolled, 0.0598 mm (16 Gauge)
Mass (Without Modules) ~0.53 kg (1.17 lb)
Size • Height:
150 mm (5.9 in)
• Width:
216 mm (8.5 in)
• Depth:
31.4 mm (1.24 in) or 39.7 mm (1.56 in) including feet
Construction • Material:
PC and ABS, inflammability UL94 V0
• Color:
Black

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 25

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Dimensions - Nominal

Dimensions - Nominal
Compression Screw Termination Assembly RH926GH
111
4.37

72
80
2.83
3.13

216
8.51

216
8.51

26 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

Dimensions - Nominal Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280)

Ring Lug Termination Assembly (P0926PA)(1)

(1) This not an RoHS part.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C 27

Field Device Controller 280 (FDC280) Related Documents

Related Documents
Document Number Description
PSS 41H-2SOV Standard 200 Series Subsystem Overview
B0400FA Standard and Compact 200 Series Subsystem User's
Guide
PSS 41H-2CERTS Standard and Compact 200 Series I/O - Agency
Certifications
PSS 31H-2W3 Standard 200 Series Power Supply
PSS 41H-2SBASPLT Standard 200 Series Baseplates
PSS 41H-2FPS Standard 200 Series Power Supplies - FPS240-24 and
FPS120-24
PSS 41H-2C480 Compact Power Supply - FPS480-24
PSS 41H-2GOV G-Series Enclosures Overview
PSS 41H-7NWEQUIP The Foxboro DCS Control Network Ethernet
Equipment
PSS 41S-1TIME Time Synchronization Overview
PSS 41S-3FCPICS Foxboro DCS Field Control Processor 280 (FCP280)
Integrated Control Software
PSS 41S-3FDCMBDV Modbus Master TCP Driver for Field Device Controller
280
PSS 41S-3FDCMBRT Modbus Master RTU Serial Driver for Field Device
Controller 280
PSS 41S-3FDCTSAA Triconex™ System Access Application Driver for Field
Device Controller 280

28 PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C

 WARNING: This product can
expose you to chemicals
including lead and lead
compounds, which are
known to the State of
California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. For more
information, go to
www.p65warnings.ca.gov/.

Schneider Electric Systems USA, Inc.

38 Neponset Avenue
Foxboro, Massachusetts 02035–2037
United States of America

Global Customer Support: https://pasupport.schneider-electric.com

As standards, specifications, and design change from time to time,

please ask for confirmation of the information given in this publication.

© 2015–2020 Schneider Electric. All rights reserved.

PSS 41H-2FDC280, Rev. C