NI FP-TB-1 | FieldPoint Terminal Base, In Stock

Description

Key Technical Specifications

Product Introduction

FieldPoint modules don’t work in a vacuum. They need a place to live and a way to connect to the real world. The NI FP-TB-1 is that interface. It’s a universal terminal base that accepts any single-width FieldPoint I/O module, provides screw terminals for field wiring, and forms the local bus for power and communication. Without it, your FP-AI-110 or FP-TC-120 is just an expensive paperweight.

You choose the FP-TB-1 because it’s the standard for a reason. It handles 250V channel-to-earth, operates from -40°C to +70°C, and uses 16-26 AWG wire with a 7mm strip length. The torque spec is 0.5-0.6 Nm — overtighten and you strip the threads, undertighten and you get intermittent connections. Bottom line: it’s a passive component, but get it wrong and your entire FieldPoint bank goes down.

NI FP-TB-1

QA/QC Transparency SOP

1. Intake & Origin Verification: Trace every FP-TB-1 to source. Check for physical damage, stripped screw terminals, or cracked DIN rail clips. Verify the 194956D-02L or equivalent part number.
2. Live Functional Testing: Install a known-good FieldPoint module (e.g., FP-AI-110). Verify backplane communication, power delivery, and signal continuity through all screw terminals. No dead pins.
3. Electrical Parameter Tests: Megger test channel-to-earth isolation (250V rating). Continuity check on all terminal-to-backplane paths. Verify no shorts between adjacent channels.
4. Firmware/Config Verification: N/A (Passive hardware). Confirm no bent pins or damaged connectors that would prevent module seating.
5. Final QC & Anti-Static Packaging: Visual inspection of screw terminals and DIN rail mechanism. Clean contacts. Seal in ESD-safe bag. Include torque spec reminder card.

Field Engineer Gotchas

• Channel-to-Channel Isolation: The FP-TB-1 has 0V channel-to-channel isolation. Risk: Connecting two different ground references and creating a ground loop that fries your module. Fix: Use isolated modules (e.g., FP-AI-112) or signal conditioners if grounds differ. I’ve seen three FP-AI-110s smoke in one rack from this.
• Torque Specifications: 0.5-0.6 Nm is the spec. Risk: Overtightening strips the terminal block. Undertightening causes intermittent connections that show up as noise. Fix: Use a calibrated torque screwdriver. Don’t “feel” it.
• Wire Strip Length: 7mm (0.275 in.) is critical. Risk: Too short = insulation in the clamp. Too long = exposed conductor shorts to adjacent terminal. Fix: Use a wire stripper with a 7mm stop. Measure twice.
• Power Cascading: You can cascade power from neighboring bases, but it defeats isolation. Risk: A fault in one module takes down the entire bank. Fix: Use separate power supplies for critical channels or when total current exceeds 3A. Read the manual.

NI FP-TB-1

Application Scenarios

• Thermocouple Measurements: The FP-TB-1 includes an RT1 thermistor for cold junction compensation (CJC) when used with FP-TC-120. Essential for accurate temperature readings.
• High-Voltage Signal Routing: 250V channel-to-earth rating allows direct connection to industrial sensors without external isolation. Just mind the ground loops.
• Distributed I/O Banks: DIN rail mounting and local bus enable compact, modular I/O arrays. Chain multiple FP-TB-1 bases for high-density installations.

Real-World Case: A wastewater treatment plant had erratic pH readings. Techs replaced sensors, then the FP-AI-110 module. Still bad. Found the FP-TB-1 terminal block had a cracked solder joint on the common terminal from overtightening during installation. Replaced the base, torqued to spec. Problem solved. Cost: 80 vs. 400 in wasted parts.

FAQ

Can I use the FP-TB-1 with double-width modules?
No. The FP-TB-1 is for single-width FieldPoint modules only. Double-width modules require the FP-TB-2 or FP-TB-3. Don’t force it — you’ll damage the backplane connector.

Does this provide isolation between channels?
No. Channel-to-channel isolation is 0V. The FP-TB-1 only provides channel-to-earth isolation (250V). If you need channel-to-channel isolation, use an isolated module like the FP-AI-112.

What’s the difference between FP-TB-1 and FP-TB-2?
FP-TB-1 is for single-width modules. FP-TB-2 is for double-width modules. Same functionality, different physical footprint. Check your module width before ordering.

Can I hot-swap the I/O module on this base?
Yes, FieldPoint supports hot-swapping. But verify your system is configured for it. The FP-TB-1 itself is passive — it doesn’t care. The module and controller do.

What wire gauge should I use?
16-26 AWG copper. Don’t go thicker than 16 AWG — it won’t fit the terminal. Don’t go thinner than 26 AWG — it won’t clamp reliably. Stranded or solid is fine.

Is the RT1 thermistor replaceable?
No. The RT1 thermistor on the FP-TB-1 is soldered to the PCB. If it fails, replace the entire terminal base. It’s a 50 part, not a 5 repair.

Can I panel mount this instead of DIN rail?
Yes. The FP-TB-1 supports both DIN rail and panel mounting. Use the included panel mount hardware. Ensure adequate clearance for wiring and airflow.