Description
3. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Elan 520 running at 100 MHz + CommControl ASIC |
| Memory | 16 MB SDRAM + 32 MB Flash (ECC single-bit correction / multi-bit detection) |
| Control Network | 100 Mbps fiber-optic Ethernet to MESH control network |
| Module Fieldbus | HDLC 2 Mbps (200 Series FBMs) or 268 Kbps (100 Series FBMs) |
| I/O Capacity (200 Series) | 32 FBMs maximum (without FEM100); up to 128 FBMs with FEM100 |
| I/O Capacity (100 Series) | Up to 64 FBMs (sizing constraints apply) |
| Maximum Control Blocks | Approximately 4,000 |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC (redundant capable) |
| Power Consumption | 8.5 W maximum per non-fault-tolerant module |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +60 °C (+32 to +140 °F) |
| Relative Humidity | 5 to 95% (non-condensing) |
| Altitude | –300 to +3,000 m (–1,000 to +10,000 ft) |
| Environment | Class G3 (harsh) per ISA S71.04 |
| Mounting | 2-position or compatible modular baseplate (single or fault-tolerant pair) |
| Housing | Die-cast aluminum, suitable for non-vented field enclosures |
4. Product Introduction
The Foxboro FCP270 is a distributed, optionally fault-tolerant Field Control Processor for the I/A Series and Foxboro Evo systems. It executes regulatory, logic, timing, and sequential control strategies while performing data acquisition and alarm detection with connected Fieldbus Modules.
The processor uses an AMD Elan 520 running at 100 MHz with 16 MB SDRAM and 32 MB Flash memory. It connects directly to the MESH control network over 100 Mbps fiber-optic Ethernet and communicates with FBMs over the module Fieldbus at 2 Mbps (200 Series) or 268 Kbps (100 Series). A single FCP270 supports up to 32 standard or Compact 200 Series FBMs; adding FEM100 modules extends capacity to 128. The fault-tolerant configuration uses two modules operating in parallel for continuous control if one module fails.
- FCP270
- FCP270
5. Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Module will not come online | Power loss, baseplate fault, or network link down | ✅ High | Measure 24 V DC at baseplate; check fiber link LEDs and switch status | Confirm power and fiber connections before replacing module |
| Fault-tolerant pair shows mismatch | Configuration or firmware difference between modules | ✅ High | Compare firmware revisions and control database images on both modules | Load identical image and firmware; verify baseplate interconnect |
| No communication with FBMs | Fieldbus path failure or incorrect speed setting | ✅ High | Check Fieldbus LEDs; verify 2 Mbps vs 268 Kbps configuration matches FBM type | Inspect Fieldbus cabling and terminators; confirm speed setting |
| High CPU or memory load | Excessive block count or scan rate | ✅ Medium | Review control processor loading reports in system software | Reduce scan rates or split load across additional processors |
| Online upgrade fails | Self-hosting mode or network interruption | ❌ Medium | Confirm self-hosting status and stable network path | Follow official online image update procedure; do not interrupt power |
| Module online but no process control | Database not loaded or letterbug mismatch | ✅ High | Verify letterbug assignment and control database download status | Re-download database and confirm letterbug |
If diagnostics remain unclear, capture module status LEDs, diagnostic buffer screenshots, fiber link status, and baseplate photos, then contact technical support with the exact part number and system software version.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the FCP270 hot-swappable? In a fault-tolerant pair, one module can be replaced while the partner continues control. For a single (non-redundant) module, the process is interrupted during replacement. Always follow the official removal and insertion procedure.
Q: What is the difference between FCP270 and ZCP270? The is a field-mounted processor that connects directly to FBMs via the module Fieldbus. The ZCP270 is a Z-module (rack-mounted) processor that typically requires FCM100E/FCM100Et modules to communicate with FBMs.
Q: How many FBMs can one support? Without expansion: up to 32 of the 200 Series FBMs. With FEM100 modules: up to 128 of the 200 Series FBMs. Up to 64 of the 100 Series FBMs are supported subject to sizing guidelines (B0700AV).
Q: Does the require a separate Fieldbus Communication Module? No. The communicates directly with FBMs over the module Fieldbus. No FCM is required.
Q: Why is new surplus pricing lower than current Schneider list? These are genuine OEM modules from excess or decommissioned stock. They have not been installed in continuous service. Every unit undergoes inbound inspection, power-up, and functional testing on a Foxboro I/A Series system before shipment. Test reports are available on request.
Q: Can firmware and the control database be updated online? Yes. The supports online image updates so firmware and application changes can be loaded without a process shutdown when the proper procedures are followed.
Q: What happens if one module of a fault-tolerant pair fails? The surviving module continues control without interruption. The failed module can be replaced online. Both modules must run identical firmware and control databases for proper dual-module operation.



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