Description
VBX01BA: Product Overview
The ABB VBX01BA is a specialized bus extender designed for ABB’s Symphony Plus distributed control system (DCS). As a critical component of the HN800 bus network, it addresses the challenge of extending bus coverage in large-scale industrial facilities, where devices are often spread across wide areas (e.g., power plants, chemical refineries). The VBX01BA mounts vertically on the top of HN800 device columns, providing a compact and organized way to expand the bus architecture without compromising system performance.
Role in Automation Systems:
In Symphony Plus ecosystems, the VBX01BA acts as a “bus repeater” and “power distributor.” Its primary roles include:
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Extending Bus Range: Increases the maximum distance between HN800 devices (e.g., controllers, I/O modules) by up to 100 meters, allowing devices in remote areas to connect to the central control system.
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Power Distribution: Supplies 24VDC power to connected HN800 modules, eliminating the need for separate power cables and reducing installation complexity.
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Signal Integrity: Maintains signal quality over long distances using high-quality cabling and shielding, ensuring reliable communication between devices.
Core Functionality:
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Vertical Mounting Design: Fits seamlessly on top of HN800 device columns, optimizing space utilization in control cabinets.
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Conformal Coating: Protects internal components from dust, moisture, and other environmental hazards, making it suitable for harsh industrial environments (e.g., steel mills, offshore platforms).
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Hot-Swappable: Allows for replacement without shutting down the system, minimizing downtime during maintenance.
Platform Benefits (Symphony Plus):
The VBX01BA leverages ABB’s Symphony Plus platform, which is renowned for:
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Scalability: Supports expansion from small (10 devices) to large (100+ devices) systems, adapting to growing operational needs.
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Reliability: Industrial-grade components and a rugged design ensure 24/7 operation in harsh environments.
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Integration: Seamlessly integrates with ABB’s other Symphony Plus components (e.g., AC 800M controllers, S800 I/O modules), reducing setup time and effort.
ABB VBX01BA
Technical Specifications
Model Number: VBX01BA
Manufacturer: ABB
Product Type: HN800 Bus Extender
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Bus Type: HN800 (ABB proprietary)
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Maximum Extension Length: 100 meters
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Mounting Type: Vertical top (on HN800 device column)
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Power Supply: 24VDC (module power connection)
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Environmental Protection: Conformal coated
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Certifications: CE, UL listed
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Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Dimensions (W×H×D): 100 mm × 80 mm × 50 mm (3.94 in × 3.15 in × 1.97 in)
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Weight: 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Extended Bus Coverage:
The VBX01BA’s ability to extend the HN800 bus by up to 100 meters allows customers to connect devices in remote areas (e.g., a pump station 50 meters from the control room) without installing additional repeaters. This reduces installation costs and complexity, especially in large facilities.
2. Simplified Power Management:
By providing 24VDC power to connected modules, the VBX01BA eliminates the need for separate power cables. This not only reduces wiring complexity but also ensures that all devices receive consistent power, improving system reliability.
3. Rugged & Reliable Design:
The conformal coating and industrial-grade components make the VBX01BA resistant to dust, moisture, and vibration. For example, in a steel mill, the module can withstand high temperatures and airborne particles, ensuring continuous operation even in harsh conditions.
4. Easy Integration:
The VBX01BA mounts directly on HN800 device columns, requiring no additional brackets or hardware. This plug-and-play design reduces installation time and effort, allowing engineers to focus on optimizing the process rather than troubleshooting integration issues.
ABB VBX01BA
Typical Applications
The ABB VBX01BA is widely used in industries that rely on Symphony Plus control systems:
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Power Generation:
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Extends the HN800 bus to connect turbine controllers, generator exciters, and switchgear in power plants.
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Example: In a coal-fired power plant, the VBX01BA connects a remote pump station (100 meters from the control room) to the central DCS, enabling real-time monitoring of pump status.
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Chemical Processing:
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Expands the bus network to cover multiple process units (e.g., reactors, distillation columns) in chemical refineries.
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Example: In a petrochemical refinery, the VBX01BA connects a remote valve actuator (80 meters from the control room) to the DCS, allowing operators to adjust valve position in real time.
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Manufacturing:
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Extends the bus to connect robotic arms, conveyor systems, and CNC machines in automotive assembly plants.
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Example: In an automotive factory, the VBX01BA connects a remote robotic arm (70 meters from the control room) to the DCS, enabling synchronized operation with other assembly line processes.
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