Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | CI858 3BSE018136R1 |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product Type | DriveBus communication interface module |
| Compatible System | ABB AC 800M / Industrial IT 800xA |
| Installation Interface | CEX-bus slot on AC 800M CPU |
| Protocol | ABB DriveBus (master/slave) |
| Transmission Speed | 8 Mbit/s |
| Physical Interface | 2 optical connectors |
| Drive Capacity | Up to 24 ABB drives per CI858 |
| Controller Capacity | Up to 2 CI858 per AC 800M controller |
| Hot Swap | Supported |
| Module Redundancy | No |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC via CEX bus, approx. 200 mA |
| Protection Rating | IP20 |
| Dimensions | 59 × 185 × 127.5 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 0.55–0.70 kg |
| Certification | CE, RoHS; marine approvals ABS/BV/DNV-GL/LR listed |
| Typical Use | Paper machine section drives, rolling mill drives, multi-drive ACS systems |
Product Introduction
DriveBus failures show up as drive communication faults, not as generic network alarms. The ABB CI858 3BSE018136R1 is the module that closes that loop for AC 800M systems running ABB section drives. It installs in the controller’s CEX-bus slot and provides the optical DriveBus link required by ACS drives and certain ABB-specific I/O devices.
This is a specialized interface, not a general fieldbus card. It does not replace PROFIBUS DP, Modbus TCP, or EtherNet/IP modules. One CI858 can serve up to 24 drives; an AC 800M controller can carry two CI858 modules. If your plant runs ABB drives on DriveBus, this module is the correct replacement. If you need third-party device integration, look at CI854, CI867, or other protocol-specific interfaces.
QA/QC Transparency SOP
- Intake & Origin Verification: Verify part number 3BSE018136R1, revision label, optical port condition, and CEX-bus connector pins. Reject units with cracked fiber ports or corroded backplane contacts.
- Live Functional Testing: Seat the in a compatible AC 800M CPU CEX slot. Confirm CEX-bus detection in Compact Control Builder and check module LED status.
- Electrical Parameter Tests: Verify 24 V DC backplane power draw and continuity across power pins. Inspect optical connectors for contamination; clean fiber ends before test.
- Firmware/Config Verification: Record the AC 800M CPU firmware, DriveBus node addresses, and project configuration. Archive the controller backup before placing the module into service.
- Final QC & Anti-Static Packaging: Label the module, photograph condition, cap optical ports, and pack in ESD-safe materials with a test summary.
Field Engineer Gotchas
- Revision mismatch: 3BSE018136R1 is linked to / -1, while 3BSE018135R1 is CI858K01. They are both DriveBus modules, but confirm the exact revision and mechanical fit before swapping.
- Wrong bus assumption: The is DriveBus only. Installing it to replace a CI854 PROFIBUS module or CI867 Modbus TCP module will not work.
- Optical connector contamination: Dust on fiber ends causes intermittent DriveBus faults that look like drive errors. Always cap unused ports and clean connectors before mating.
- NDBU branch unit missing: When more than one ABB drive is connected, an NDBU branch unit is typically required to build a logical bus from a physical star topology.
- Hot-swap caution: DriveBus supports hot swap, but replacing a during production still requires an approved maintenance procedure and confirmed backup.

ABB CI858 3BSE018136R1
Application Scenarios
- Paper machine section drives: Provides the DriveBus link between the AC 800M controller and multiple ACS drive sections, where speed synchronization and fast torque response are critical.
- Rolling mill drive systems: Connects the controller to ABB drives in segmented mill applications that require deterministic drive communication.
- Multi-drive ACS installations: Consolidates drive communication through the AC 800M CEX bus instead of using separate serial or Ethernet gateways.
- DriveBus spare standardization: Keeps one verified on the shelf for plants running ABB section drives on DriveBus.
FAQ
- Is the 3BSE018136R1 a PROFIBUS module?
No. It is a DriveBus interface module for ABB drives. For PROFIBUS DP, look at CI854/CI854A. - What is the difference between 3BSE018136R1 and 3BSE018135R1?
3BSE018136R1 is associated with / -1; 3BSE018135R1 is CI858K01. Both are DriveBus modules, but verify the exact revision with the OEM documentation before ordering.
- Can it connect to non-ABB drives?
Not directly. DriveBus is an ABB-specific protocol. Third-party drives typically require PROFIBUS, Modbus, or Ethernet-based interfaces. - How many drives can one handle?
Up to 24 ABB drives per , with up to two modules per AC 800M controller. - Does it support hot swapping?
Yes, DriveBus supports hot swap, but follow approved maintenance procedures and back up the project first. - Does it need an external power supply?
No. It is powered from the AC 800M CEX bus. - Is it still available new?
Most supply comes through surplus, unused, or refurbished channels. Always verify revision, test records, and return terms.


