ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1 | Industrial PLC Profibus DP Communication Processor

  • Brand: ABB
  • Model: CI522A
  • Product Code: 3BSE018283R1
  • Product Type: Communication Interface Module
  • Series: AC500 Series (ABB Advant Controller 500 I/O Family)
  • Core Function: Manages Profibus DP communication between AC500 PLC CPUs and distributed I/O modules/field devices; handles data exchange, protocol conversion, and system diagnostics.
  • Key Specs: PowerPC 405 processor, 256MB RAM, Profibus DP (up to 12 Mbps), -25°C to +60°C operating temperature, hot-swappable design, dual-port architecture.
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Description

CI522A 3BSE018283R1: Product Overview
The ABB CI522A (3BSE018283R1) is a communication interface module within ABB’s AC500 series of I/O systems, designed to facilitate reliable data exchange between AC500 PLC CPUs and distributed I/O modules or field devices via the Profibus DP protocol. Positioned as a protocol-specific gateway, its primary role is to convert controller commands into field-readable signals and transmit sensor data back to the AC500 CPU for logic processing. This module is integral to maintaining deterministic communication in industrial automation architectures, where timely and accurate data flow is critical for process stability in continuous operations such as chemical processing, power generation, and manufacturing.
Functionally, the CI522A processes cyclic data (real-time I/O updates) and acyclic messages (diagnostic/config commands) via Profibus DP (up to 12 Mbps). It acts as an intermediary, isolating the CPU from field-level electrical noise and ensuring signal integrity. As part of the AC500 family, the module leverages the platform’s modular architecture, compatibility with CODESYS V3 programming, and seamless integration with ABB 800xA DCS. Benefits include simplified system integration, reduced wiring complexity through standardized protocols, and scalable expansion for growing I/O networks.

ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1

ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1

CI522A 3BSE018283R1: Technical Specifications
  • Model Number: CI522A
  • Product Code: 3BSE018283R1
  • Manufacturer: ABB
  • Product Type: Communication Interface Module
  • Processor: PowerPC 405, 266 MHz
  • Memory: 256MB RAM, 512MB Flash (firmware/user configuration)
  • Communication Protocol: Profibus DP (up to 12 Mbps, master/slave mode)
  • I/O Capacity: Up to 32 distributed I/O modules per segment
  • Data Throughput: Up to 8,000 I/O points per second (cyclic exchange)
  • Operating Temperature: -25°C to +60°C
  • Humidity Range: 5% to 95% non-condensing
  • Power Supply: 24V DC (from AC500 rack backplane, 18-32V DC range)
  • Power Consumption: 5W (typical)
  • Dimensions: 25mm x 128mm x 115mm (width x height x depth, fits AC500 I/O rack)
  • Weight: 0.2kg
  • Certifications: CE, UL, cULus, RoHS
Core Features & Customer Value
The CI522A 3BSE018283R1 is engineered to address critical communication challenges in industrial automation. Its support for Profibus DP—a widely adopted fieldbus protocol—enables seamless integration with ABB S800 I/O modules and third-party devices (e.g., Siemens ET 200), eliminating the need for protocol converters. For engineers, this simplifies system design and reduces component count, lowering upfront integration costs.
The module’s PowerPC 405 processor and 256MB RAM ensure efficient handling of large data volumes, critical for dense I/O networks in applications like turbine control or batch processing. Deterministic data exchange (≤10ms latency) guarantees that control commands reach actuators without delay, maintaining process precision. Galvanic isolation (1500VAC) between the CPU and field bus protects against ground loops and EMI, a necessity in environments with VFDs or high-power motors.
Hot-swap capability minimizes downtime during maintenance. Technicians can replace the module without de-energizing the rack, as the AC500 CPU automatically reallocates communication tasks to redundant paths (if configured). Integration with ABB’s Automation Builder software streamlines configuration, allowing engineers to reuse communication profiles across projects and cut commissioning time by 15-20%. For maintenance teams, built-in diagnostics (LED indicators, error logs) accelerate fault isolation, reducing mean time to repair (MTTR).

ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1

ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1

Typical Applications
The ABB CI522A 3BSE018283R1 is deployed in AC500 PLC systems requiring Profibus DP communication. In a petroleum refinery’s catalytic reformer, it connects the AC500 CPU to 24 S800 I/O modules monitoring temperature, pressure, and flow. Real-time data transmission enables precise adjustment of hydrogen-to-hydrocarbon ratios, optimizing octane output.
At a chemical plant’s batch reactor, the module interfaces the AC500 safety controller with Profibus DP-linked emergency shutdown (ESD) devices (e.g., flame detectors, pressure switches). Its deterministic communication ensures ESD signals are prioritized, meeting SIL 2 requirements for rapid response.
In a municipal water treatment facility, the CI522A links the AC500 CPU to remote pump station I/O racks via Profibus DP. Data on pump status and tank levels is transmitted for remote adjustment of chemical dosing, with the module’s -25°C cold-start capability supporting winter operations.
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