Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | FBM242 |
| OEM Part Number | RH916TA |
| Previous Part Number | P0916TA |
| Manufacturer | Foxboro (Invensys / Schneider Electric) |
| System Platform | Foxboro I/A Series DCS |
| Product Type | Externally Sourced Discrete Output Module |
| Output Channels | 16 discrete outputs |
| Output Type | External power switching |
| Output Voltage Range | 15 to 60 V DC |
| Maximum Output Current | 2 A per channel |
| Supported Output Applications | Solenoid valves, relays, contactors, alarms, actuators |
| Output Protection | Depends on selected termination assembly |
| Isolation | Galvanic isolation between channels and system electronics |
| Output Modes | Sustained or momentary outputs |
| Fail-Safe Function | Configurable fail-safe output behavior |
| Logic Function | Discrete I/O or Ladder Logic execution |
| Fieldbus Communication | Redundant 2 Mbps I/A Series Module Fieldbus |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC +5 %, -10 % |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 3 W |
| Maximum Heat Dissipation | 6.5 W at loaded output condition |
| Operating Temperature | -20 to +70 °C |
| Storage Temperature | -40 to +70 °C |
| Humidity Range | 5 to 95 % RH, non-condensing |
| Environmental Classification | ISA S71.04 Class G3 industrial environment |
| Mounting | Foxboro Modular Baseplate |
| Module Dimensions | 102 mm H × 45 mm W × 104 mm D |
| Module Weight | Approximately 284 g |
| Termination Connection | 37-pin D-sub interface |
| Cable Length | Up to 30 m |
| Termination Mounting | DIN rail mounting |
The Foxboro FBM242 RH916TA is an externally sourced discrete output module for Foxboro I/A Series systems. It provides 16 isolated output channels and controls field loads using external field power rather than drawing the load current from the module itself.
Product Introduction
The Foxboro FBM242 RH916TA is a 16-channel discrete output Fieldbus Module designed for I/A Series DCS applications. It converts control commands from the Foxboro processor into switching signals for field devices such as solenoid valves, motor starters, relays, and alarm circuits.
The module uses externally sourced power architecture, allowing field voltage selection through compatible termination assemblies. The correct termination assembly must be verified during replacement because output voltage range and protection characteristics depend on the installed TA configuration.
Installation & Configuration Guide
Stage 1: Pre-Installation Preparation (Approx. 10 minutes)
⚠️ Safety First
- Notify operations before removing the FBM242.
- Confirm connected field devices can tolerate output interruption.
- Place controlled equipment into a safe state.
- Apply lockout/tagout procedures if cabinet power must be isolated.
- Wait at least 5 minutes after power removal before handling the module.
Tools Required
- ESD wrist strap
- PH1 screwdriver
- Digital multimeter
- Wire labels
- Smartphone for photos
- Loop/load tester (recommended)
Data Backup
Before removal:
- Record:
- FBM242 model number
- RH916TA identification
- Module slot position
- Termination assembly type
- Photograph:
- Field wiring
- Terminal labels
- External power connections
- Fuse or relay arrangements
- Document:
- Output channel assignment
- Fail-safe settings
- Momentary/sustained output configuration
Stage 2: Removing the Old Module (Approx. 10 minutes)
Steps
- Open the Foxboro I/A Series cabinet.
- Confirm the FBM242 slot location.
- Label all field output wiring.
- Verify external field power is isolated.
- Disconnect terminal wiring carefully.
- Release the module locking tabs.
- Pull the straight out from the baseplate.
- Inspect:
- Backplane connector pins
- Module contacts
- Baseplate condition
- Dust or contamination
⚠️ Note:
Keep the original until all field outputs have been tested. Discrete outputs can directly energize equipment, so avoid removing reference wiring too early.
Stage 3: Installing the New Module (Approx. 15 minutes)
Steps
- Wear an ESD strap before handling the replacement .
- Verify:
- Model:
- Part Number: RH916TA
- Correct termination assembly
- Correct field voltage range
- Configuration Clone (Critical):
- Match module slot position.
- Confirm output channel mapping.
- Copy fail-safe settings.
- Verify sustained/momentary output behavior.
- Confirm external field power wiring.
- Check relay/fuse termination options.
- Insert the module into the Foxboro baseplate.
- Lock the module securely.
- Reconnect field wiring.
Self-Checklist
- RH916TA verified
- Correct TA installed
- External power wiring checked
- Output channels matched
- Module seated correctly
Stage 4: Power-On & Testing (Approx. 20 minutes)
Pre-Power Check
- Verify 24 V DC module supply.
- Confirm external output power voltage.
- Check field wiring polarity.
- Verify load ratings.
Power-On Steps
- Restore cabinet power.
- Check status LEDs.
- Verify Fieldbus communication.
- Confirm module health in Foxboro workstation.
- Test each output channel.
- Verify field device operation.
- Confirm fail-safe behavior.
⚠️ Troubleshooting Note
- If outputs remain inactive, verify the external field supply first.
- If only some channels fail, inspect termination assembly fuses.
- If communication fails, check Fieldbus connections and module addressing.

FBM242 RH916TA

FBM242 RH916TA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between and ?
is the current module part number associated with the hardware. Older documentation may reference P0916TA. The is the module family designation, while identifies the hardware ordering code.
Q2: Can the directly drive field loads?
Yes, but the field load must match the installed termination assembly specifications.
The uses externally sourced power, meaning the field supply provides energy for the load. The module performs the switching function.
Always verify:
- Voltage range
- Load current
- Inrush current
- Protection method
before connecting equipment.
Q3: Is the obsolete?
The belongs to the mature Foxboro I/A Series product family. Many operating plants still maintain these systems, so replacement demand remains for lifecycle support and spare inventory management.
Availability depends on remaining New Original, New Surplus, and tested refurbished stock.
Q4: Can the be hot-swapped?
Some Foxboro I/A Series installations support online module replacement procedures, especially when redundant configurations are installed.
However, the controls discrete field outputs. Removing the module can affect valves, motors, alarms, or interlocks.
Verify the site replacement procedure before removing an active module.
Q5: Will replacing the erase my logic configuration?
No. The control logic and I/O database are stored within the Foxboro control system configuration.
However, verify:
- Module address
- Slot assignment
- Output channel mapping
- Fail-safe parameters
- Termination assembly type
before returning equipment to automatic operation.
Q6: Why is surplus stock cheaper than OEM pricing?
Legacy DCS modules often come from:
- Plant spare inventory
- DCS migration projects
- Shutdown equipment
- Excess maintenance stock
Condition should always be stated clearly:
- New Original / New Surplus: Unused inventory condition.
- Factory Sealed: Original unopened packaging when available.
- Refurbished (tested): Function tested before shipment.
Q7: What inspection process should be completed before installing a surplus ?
Inbound Inspection & Traceability
- Verify supplier documentation.
- Confirm markings.
- Check serial number information.
- Inspect enclosure condition.
- Confirm no corrosion, scratches, repair marks, or contamination.
- Audit accessories and labels.
Live Functional Testing
Test Environment:
- Genuine Foxboro I/A Series FBM test rack.
Testing steps:
- Power-up LED verification.
- Fieldbus communication test.
- Output channel simulation.
- External load switching test.
- Continuous operation monitoring.
- Test report generation.
Electrical Parameter Testing
- Insulation resistance test using 500 V Megger where applicable.
- Ground continuity check.
- Output switching 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 ignoring the termination assembly.
The module number alone does not define the complete field interface. Different termination assemblies change voltage range, protection method, and load capability.
Common errors:
- Installing a 24 V DC output module where 120 V AC switching is required.
- Forgetting external field power wiring.
- Missing fuse protection differences.
- Incorrect channel mapping.
- Testing outputs without isolating connected equipment.
Take photos before removal. Record the exact TA model. That simple step prevents most commissioning delays.

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