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FBM218
FBM218
FBM218

Foxboro FBM218 I/A Series 8-Channel 4-20mA HART Module

  • Model: FBM218 (Typical Part Number: P0922VW / RH101AE depending on hardware version)
  • Brand: Foxboro (Invensys / Schneider Electric)
  • Series: I/A Series 200 Fieldbus Modules
  • Core Function: HART-enabled analog output control
  • Product Type: Redundant Analog Output Fieldbus Module
  • Key Specs: 8 isolated 4-20 mA outputs, HART FSK communication, redundant Fieldbus operation
  • Condition: New Original / New Surplus
  • ⚠️ Obsolete Model – Limited Stock Available
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Description

Key Technical Specifications

Parameter Value
Product Model FBM218
Typical Ordering Code P0922VW
Manufacturer Foxboro (Invensys / Schneider Electric)
System Platform Foxboro I/A Series / Foxboro Evo DCS
Product Type HART Communication Redundant Output Module
Output Channels 8 isolated analog output channels
Output Signal 4-20 mA DC
HART Communication Digital HART FSK signal superimposed on 4-20 mA output
HART Communication Mode Point-to-point, master/slave, asynchronous, half-duplex
HART Baud Rate 1,200 baud
HART Message Capability Up to 2 digital messages per second per field device
Output Resolution 13-bit
Output Accuracy ±0.05 % of span
Output Load 750 Ω maximum
Output Settling Time 60 ms maximum
Channel Isolation Galvanic isolation between channels, ground, and module logic
Isolation Rating 600 VAC for 1 minute
Field Device Interface HART-compatible valve positioners and actuators
Redundancy Dual FBM218 module redundancy configuration
Fieldbus Communication Redundant 2 Mbps HDLC Fieldbus
Power Supply 24 V DC ±10 %
Power Consumption 7 W maximum
Heat Dissipation 5 W maximum
Operating Temperature 0 to +60 °C
Storage Temperature −40 to +70 °C
Humidity 5 to 95 % RH, non-condensing
Mounting Foxboro I/A Series FBM baseplate
Termination Dedicated FBM218 termination assemblies

The Foxboro FBM218 is an I/A Series HART Communication Redundant Output Module providing eight isolated 4-20 mA output channels with HART digital communication capability. Each channel includes a dedicated HART FSK modem for communication with intelligent field devices.

 

Product Introduction

The Foxboro FBM218 is an analog output Fieldbus Module designed for Foxboro I/A Series DCS installations requiring 4-20 mA control outputs with HART communication. It interfaces with field devices such as control valve positioners, actuators, and intelligent final control elements.

The module provides eight isolated output channels and supports redundant FBM-level configurations using paired modules. It is commonly maintained in existing process plants where replacing individual DCS I/O hardware is more practical than a complete control system migration.

 

Installation & Configuration Guide

 

Stage 1: Pre-Installation Preparation (Approx. 10 minutes)

⚠️ Safety First

  1. Notify operations before removing the FBM218.
  2. Confirm affected control loops can be transferred to manual control.
  3. Apply lockout/tagout procedures if cabinet power removal is required.
  4. Wait at least 5 minutes after power isolation before handling the module.

Tools Required

  • ESD wrist strap
  • PH1 screwdriver
  • Digital multimeter
  • Wire labels
  • Smartphone for wiring photos

Data Backup

Before removal:

  1. Record:
    • model number
    • Hardware revision
    • Module slot position
    • Redundancy configuration
  2. Photograph:
    • Terminal wiring
    • Module location
    • Cable routing
  3. Document:
    • Output channel assignments
    • Valve or actuator tag numbers
    • HART device configuration
    • Fail-safe output values

 

Stage 2: Removing the Old Module (Approx. 10 minutes)

Steps

  1. Open the Foxboro I/A Series cabinet.
  2. Verify the correct location.
  3. Label each output channel wiring connection.
  4. Disconnect field wiring carefully.
  5. Release the module retaining mechanism.
  6. Pull the straight outward from the baseplate.
  7. Inspect:
    • Backplane pins
    • Connector condition
    • Dust or contamination

⚠️ Note:
Keep the original module until the replacement passes output verification. Analog outputs can directly affect final control elements, so avoid removing the old module before documentation is complete.

 

Stage 3: Installing the New Module (Approx. 15 minutes)

Steps

  1. Wear an ESD strap before handling the replacement .
  2. Verify:
    • Correct model
    • Correct part number
    • Compatible termination assembly
    • Correct redundant configuration
  3. Configuration Clone (Critical):
    • Match module slot position.
    • Copy all output channel assignments.
    • Verify HART device mapping.
    • Confirm output scaling.
    • Confirm fail-safe values.
    • Verify redundancy master/tracker arrangement.
  4. Insert the module into the FBM baseplate.
  5. Lock the module securely.
  6. Reconnect field wiring.

Self-Checklist

  • verified
  • Correct termination assembly installed
  • Output wiring confirmed
  • HART configuration documented
  • Module seated correctly

 

Stage 4: Power-On & Testing (Approx. 20 minutes)

Pre-Power Check

  1. Verify 24 V DC supply.
  2. Check output loop polarity.
  3. Confirm actuator or positioner wiring.

Power-On Steps

  1. Restore cabinet power.
  2. Check FBM status LEDs.
  3. Verify Fieldbus communication.
  4. Confirm module health status in the Foxboro workstation.
  5. Test each 4-20 mA output channel.
  6. Verify HART communication.
  7. Perform control loop functional testing.

⚠️ Troubleshooting Note

  • If output current is incorrect, verify scaling and loop resistance.
  • If HART communication fails, check field device compatibility and loop wiring.
  • If the module reports communication faults, inspect Fieldbus termination and redundancy settings.
FBM218

FBM218

FBM218

FBM218

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can the Foxboro be hot-swapped?

Some Foxboro I/A Series installations support online replacement procedures, but this depends on the specific baseplate, system revision, and plant maintenance rules.

Because controls analog outputs connected to field devices, removing it under power without confirming the system design can cause unexpected output behavior.

Q2: Is the obsolete?

The belongs to the mature Foxboro I/A Series hardware family. Many facilities still operate these systems, so replacement demand remains for maintenance and lifecycle support. Availability depends on remaining inventory and tested replacement stock.

Q3: What field devices connect to the ?

The is designed for:

  • Control valve positioners
  • HART-enabled actuators
  • Intelligent final control elements
  • 4-20 mA receiving devices

The module sends the analog control signal while allowing HART communication with compatible field devices.

Q4: Are and FBM215 interchangeable?

No.

Both modules involve HART output communication, but they have different hardware configurations, termination requirements, and system compatibility rules.

Before replacement, verify:

  • Exact model number
  • Part number
  • Termination assembly
  • I/O database configuration

Do not replace based only on the FBM family number.

Q5: Will replacing an erase my control configuration?

No. The Foxboro control database stores the control strategy and I/O definitions.

However, the replacement module must match:

  • Slot assignment
  • Output channel mapping
  • HART device configuration
  • Redundancy setup

Always document the original configuration before removal.

Q6: Why is surplus pricing lower than OEM pricing?

Legacy DCS modules are commonly sourced from:

  • Plant spare inventory
  • System upgrade projects
  • Excess engineering stock
  • Equipment retirement programs

The condition should always be clearly identified:

  • New Original / New Surplus: Unused inventory.
  • Factory Sealed: Original unopened packaging when available.
  • Refurbished (tested): Inspected and function-tested.

Q7: What inspection process should be completed before installing a surplus ?

 

Inbound Inspection & Traceability

  • Verify supplier documentation.
  • Confirm model label.
  • Check serial numbers.
  • Inspect enclosure condition.
  • Confirm no corrosion, scratches, repair marks, or contamination.
  • Audit accessories.

 

Live Functional Testing

Test environment:

  • Genuine Foxboro I/A Series FBM test rack.

Testing steps:

  • Power-up LED verification.
  • Fieldbus communication test.
  • 4-20 mA output simulation.
  • HART communication verification.
  • All eight output channels tested.
  • Continuous operation monitoring.
  • Test report generation.

 

Electrical Parameter Testing

  • Insulation resistance test using 500 V Megger where applicable.
  • Ground continuity check.
  • Output current accuracy verification.

 

Firmware & Configuration Verification

  • Record hardware revision.
  • Document module identification.
  • Save test records.
  • Photograph labels and connectors.

 

Final QC & Packaging

  • QC inspector sign-off.
  • Anti-static ESD bagging.
  • Bubble wrap protection.
  • Heavy-duty corrugated boxing.
  • QC Passed label with inspection date.

Q8: What are the most common replacement mistakes?

❗ The most common mistake is replacing the module without verifying the HART output configuration.

I have seen technicians restore the 4-20 mA signal but lose HART diagnostics because the field device mapping or loop wiring was not documented.

Common issues:

  • Wrong termination assembly.
  • Incorrect output channel mapping.
  • Missing HART device configuration.
  • Incorrect redundancy setup.
  • Testing outputs without isolating field equipment.

Take photos before removal. Record every output channel. That preparation prevents most commissioning delays on legacy Foxboro systems.

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