Reliance Electric 57C413B AutoMax Common Memory Module

Key Technical Specifications

Rockwell’s J-3636-2 Common Memory Module manual states that the 57C413B provides 128K bytes of memory / 64K registers, incorporates bus-arbitration logic and a system watchdog, and uses battery-backed RAM.

The same documentation specifies a minimum 600-day RAM retention period from the on-board battery during rack power loss. The battery maintains RAM contents; it is not an uninterruptible power source for the rack.

Product Introduction

The Reliance Electric 57C413B is a Common Memory Module for AutoMax and DCS 5000 control systems. It provides shared configuration/data memory and performs bus arbitration when multiple processor modules operate in the same rack. In slot 0, the module provides 128 KB of memory, equivalent to 64K registers.

The B revision is important because it includes an on-board lithium battery. Rockwell documentation specifically identifies 57C413B and later versions as compatible with the 57C494 power supply, unlike earlier 57C413 versions.

Installation & Configuration Guide

Stage 1: Pre-Installation Preparation

Estimated time: 20–30 minutes

⚠️ Safety First: Place the AutoMax/DCS 5000 system in its approved maintenance state. Follow site LOTO procedures before removing the rack module.

Tools Required:

• ESD wrist strap
• Digital multimeter
• Appropriate screwdriver
• Smartphone/camera
• Module documentation
• Replacement battery if required
• Current AutoMax configuration backup

Data Backup:

1. Record the complete 57C413B part number.
2. Photograph the module and battery area.
3. Record the rack and slot location.
4. Back up the AutoMax/DCS 5000 configuration.
5. Record processor-module types installed in the rack.
6. Document whether the module is operating in slot 0 or another even-numbered slot.
7. Record battery condition and installation date if available.

Stage 2: Removing the Old Module

Estimated time: 10–20 minutes

1. Power down the rack according to the applicable maintenance procedure.
2. Verify the rack is de-energized.
3. Identify the module position.
4. Release the module retention mechanism.
5. Pull the 57C413B straight out of the rack.
6. Inspect the backplane connector.
7. Check for corrosion, contamination, or damaged contacts.
8. Retain the old module until the replacement has passed testing.

⚠️ The 57C413B contains battery-backed RAM. Do not remove or replace the battery casually if the existing module still contains required configuration data.

Stage 3: Installing the Replacement

Estimated time: 15–25 minutes

1. Verify the replacement is marked 57C413B.
2. Confirm the B revision.
3. Inspect the battery and battery connector.
4. Compare the replacement with the removed module.
5. Align the board with the rack guides.
6. Insert the module straight into the backplane.
7. Fully seat the module.
8. Secure the retention mechanism.
9. Verify the module occupies the intended slot.

Configuration Check:

For a multi-processor rack, the Common Memory module is normally installed in slot 0. Rockwell documentation states that the 57C413B is required in slot 0 when a DCS 5000/AutoMax rack contains more than one processor.

Self-Checklist:

• 57C413B verified
• B revision confirmed
• Battery inspected
• Correct rack confirmed
• Slot position confirmed
• Backplane connector clean
• Module fully seated

Stage 4: Power-On & Testing

Estimated time: 30–60 minutes

1. Verify the rack wiring and power supply.
2. Restore rack power.
3. Observe processor and memory-module status.
4. Allow the AutoMax system to complete initialization.
5. Check processor diagnostics.
6. Verify Common Memory is recognized.
7. Confirm configuration data is accessible.
8. For multi-processor systems, verify processor-to-processor communication.
9. Check application tasks and shared variables.
10. Confirm no memory or parity faults are reported.
11. Run the controlled application test.
12. Record the replacement module and battery information.

⚠️ A memory-module replacement is not just an I/O swap. If the system reports missing configuration, parity, or memory errors after replacement, stop commissioning and verify the Common Memory configuration before running the machine.

57C413B

57C413B

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Reliance Electric 57C413B?

The 57C413B is a Common Memory Module used in Reliance Electric DCS 5000 and AutoMax systems. It provides shared configuration/data memory and bus arbitration functions.

How much memory does the 57C413B have?

It provides 128 KB of memory, equivalent to 64K registers, when used as the Common Memory module in slot 0.

What is the difference between 57C413 and 57C413B?

Both are Common Memory modules, but the 57C413B incorporates an on-board lithium battery. The original 57C413 requires external battery backup, whereas the B revision provides battery backup on the module itself.

Is 57C413B required for a multi-processor AutoMax rack?

Yes. Rockwell’s Common Memory documentation states that the Common Memory module is required in slot 0 of a DCS 5000/AutoMax rack containing more than one processor. It stores configuration data shared between processors and arbitrates processor access to the bus.

Can 57C413B be used in a single-processor rack?

Yes. Rockwell documentation allows the Common Memory module in slot 0 of a single-processor rack. It can also be installed in an even-numbered slot other than slot 0 for user-definable data storage.

How long does the battery retain RAM data?

Rockwell specifies a minimum of 600 days of RAM retention during rack power loss. This figure describes memory retention, not continued operation of the control system.

Can I replace 57C413B with 57C423?

They are related Common Memory modules, but they are not identical. Rockwell documentation identifies the 57C423 as the higher-capacity version, with 256 KB / 128K registers in slot 0 compared with 128 KB / 64K registers for the 57C413B. Verify system configuration and application requirements before substitution.

What should procurement verify before ordering?

Specify the complete 57C413B designation and verify:

• Reliance Electric / AutoMax Common Memory application
• Revision B
• 128 KB memory / 64K registers
• On-board lithium battery
• Battery condition
• Rack and slot compatibility
• New Original, New Surplus, or Refurbished condition
• Functional test documentation

For a legacy AutoMax installation, the battery condition and retained configuration data are particularly important when evaluating used inventory.