Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | CI858K01 |
| Order Code | 3BSE018135R1 (Standard) |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product Category | Communication Interface Module |
| Communication Protocol | ABB DriveBus |
| Bus Role | Master |
| Transmission Speed | 8 Mbit/s |
| Connection Medium | Fiber Optic |
| Max Drives per Module | 24 (requires NDBU branching unit) |
| Modules per Controller | Max 2 CI858 per AC 800M CPU |
| Power Supply | Powered via CEX-Bus (no external power needed) |
| Hot Swap | Supported |
Product Introduction
In sectional drive applications like rolling mills and paper machines, timing is everything. A generic fieldbus often introduces latency that ruins synchronization. The CI858 solves this by providing a dedicated, high-speed fiber-optic link specifically engineered for ABB drive systems.
The ABB CI858K01 is a communication interface module designed for the AC 800M controller family. It implements the DriveBus protocol, a master-slave architecture optimized for real-time control of ACS drives. Unlike standard Profibus setups, DriveBus utilizes a physical star topology via fiber optics to ensure deterministic data transfer at 8 Mbit/s. The module mounts on a TP858 baseplate and draws power directly from the controller’s CEX-Bus, simplifying cabinet wiring.
Choose this module when integrating complex multi-drive systems where synchronization is critical. It eliminates the need for external power supplies and supports hot-swapping, reducing maintenance downtime. However, it is strictly for ABB drives and special I/O; do not attempt to use it for generic device communication.
QA/QC Transparency SOP
- Intake & Origin Verification: Inspect the module for physical damage, specifically checking the fiber optic ports for scratches or contamination. Verify the part number matches 3BSE018135R1 (or the specific variant requested).
- Visual & Mechanical Inspection: Ensure the module seats correctly into the TP858 baseplate. Check that the CEX-Bus connectors are not bent or corroded.
- Functional Testing: Install the module into an AC 800M test rack. Verify that the controller recognizes the hardware in Control Builder and that the “Ready” LED illuminates.
- Communication Loop Test: Connect a simulated drive or loopback plug to verify data transmission. Check for error counters or “Bus Fault” indications on the diagnostic LEDs.
- Final QC & Packaging: Clean fiber ports with approved tools. Package in anti-static material with bubble wrap to protect the optical interfaces during transit.
Field Engineer Gotchas
- Order Code Confusion: The standard code is 3BSE018135R1. If you see 3BSE018136R1, verify it immediately. It may be a typo in the procurement request or a very specific spare part variant. Installing the wrong revision can cause firmware mismatch errors.
- NDBU Requirement: You cannot daisy-chain 24 drives in a line. You must use the NDBU (Branching Unit) to create a star topology. Skipping this results in signal reflection and communication failures.
- Fiber Optic Hygiene: This module uses fiber optics. Do not touch the tips. A single fingerprint can attenuate the signal enough to cause intermittent faults that look like software bugs.
- Power Dependency: The CI858 has no external power terminals. It relies entirely on the CEX-Bus. If the CPU or power supply is weak, this module is often the first to drop out.
- Not for General I/O: Do not try to connect standard Profibus DP slaves to this port. It speaks DriveBus only.
ABB CI858K01 3BSE018135R1
Application Scenarios
- Rolling Mill Main Drives: High-speed synchronization of multiple motors in steel rolling applications where microsecond delays cause material defects.
- Paper Machine Sectional Control: Coordinating the speed of pulp processing, pressing, and drying sections to maintain web tension without breaks.
- Legacy Drive Retrofits: Replacing older analog speed references with digital fiber-optic control in existing ABB ACS600/800 installations.
- Case Note: A paper mill experienced “ghost” speed fluctuations on the dryer section. The Profibus network was overloaded with non-critical data. Replacing the generic interface with a CI858 DriveBus module isolated the drive traffic on a dedicated 8 Mbit/s fiber channel, instantly stabilizing the process.
FAQ
Is CI858 the same as Profibus DP (CI854)?
No. CI858 is for DriveBus (ABB drives only). CI854 is for Profibus DP (general devices). They are not interchangeable.
The standard order code is 3BSE018135R1.
Does it support redundancy?
The module itself does not support module redundancy (1oo1). For redundant architectures, verify with the specific AC 800M CPU capabilities and system design.
Can I connect non-ABB drives?
No. DriveBus is a proprietary protocol for ABB drives and special I/O units.
Does it need an external power supply?
No, it is powered via the CEX-Bus from the processor unit.
What baseplate does it use?
It mounts on the TP858 baseplate.
Note on Order Code: You requested 3BSE018136R1. The standard catalog number for CI858K01 is 3BSE018135R1. Please verify this digit difference with your supplier or the physical nameplate to ensure compatibility.
