Westinghouse 1C31166G02 | Industrial Serial Communication Controller for Power Generation

  • Model: 1C31166G02
  • Alt. P/N: None listed (verify with Emerson for legacy equivalents)
  • Series: Ovation (Emerson)
  • Type: Serial Link Controller Module
  • Key Feature: Dual RS-232/RS-485 ports with multi-protocol support (Modbus RTU/ASCII, DNP3, PROFIBUS DP) for legacy device integration
  • Primary Use: Interface between Ovation DCS and serial devices (PLCs, RTUs, instruments)
Manufacturer:
Part number: 1C31166G02
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Description

Key Technical Specifications

  • Model Number: 1C31166G02
  • Manufacturer: Emerson (formerly Westinghouse)
  • Compatible System: Emerson Ovation Distributed Control System (DCS)
  • Port Configuration: 1×RS-232 (up to 115 kbps), 1×RS-485 (up to 12 Mbps, PROFIBUS DP compliant)
  • Supported Protocols: Modbus RTU/ASCII, DNP3.0, PROFIBUS DP
  • Backplane Communication: Ovation I/A Series backplane bus (compatible with system redundant architecture)
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (32°F to 140°F)
  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
  • Power Supply: Powered by Ovation system chassis (24V DC ±10% tolerance)
  • Protection Rating: IP20 (module-level, suitable for cabinet installation)
  • Dimensions: Standard Ovation module form factor (~144 mm × 60 mm × 30 mm)
  • Weight: ~0.3 kg (0.66 lbs)

    WESTINGHOUSE 5X00167G01

    WESTINGHOUSE 5X00167G01

Field Application & Problem Solved

In industrial automation—from power plants to water treatment facilities—legacy serial devices​ (e.g., PLCs, RTUs, intelligent instruments) often rely on outdated communication protocols that are incompatible with modern Distributed Control Systems (DCS). The biggest challenge is integrating these devices into a unified control architecture without replacing expensive hardware. Custom protocol converters are often costly, unreliable, and difficult to maintain.
The 1C31166G02 solves this by acting as a universal serial communication bridge​ for Emerson’s Ovation DCS. It supports multiple industrial protocols (Modbus, DNP3, PROFIBUS DP) and provides dual RS-232/RS-485 ports, allowing seamless integration of legacy serial devices with Ovation controllers. You’ll find it in:
  • Power generation: Connecting legacy PLCs in coal handling systems to Ovation DCS for centralized monitoring.
  • Water treatment: Integrating RTUs in remote pump stations with Ovation for remote control and data acquisition.
  • Oil & petrochemical: Bridging serial instruments (e.g., flow meters, temperature transmitters) with Ovation for process control.
Its core value is cost-effective legacy integration. By eliminating the need for custom protocol converters, the 1C31166G02 reduces system complexity and cost. It also supports hot-swapping, allowing maintenance without shutting down the system—critical for 24/7 operations like power plants.

Installation & Maintenance Pitfalls (Expert Tips)

1. Incorrect Port Configuration
A common rookie mistake is misconfiguring the RS-232/RS-485 ports. Always verify the port type (RS-232 vs. RS-485) and baud rate in the Ovation software before connecting devices. For example, connecting an RS-485 device to an RS-232 port will result in no communication—we once had a client waste hours troubleshooting this error.
2. Ignoring Protocol Compatibility
The 1C31166G02 supports multiple protocols, but you must enable the correct protocol for each device. For instance, if a device uses Modbus RTU, ensure the module is configured for Modbus RTU—using ASCII instead will cause data corruption. We fixed a recurring data error in a water treatment plant by switching from ASCII to RTU.
3. Poor Cable Management
Serial cables are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby power cables. Always use shielded twisted-pair cables​ for RS-485 connections and ground the shield at one end (preferably the module end). Un-shielded cables can pick up noise, leading to intermittent communication—we resolved a recurring valve malfunction in a refinery by replacing un-shielded cables.
4. Skipping Diagnostic Checks
The 1C31166G02 has built-in diagnostic functions (e.g., port status, error rate monitoring). Always check the Ovation HMI for diagnostic alerts—ignoring these can lead to undetected communication failures. We once identified a failing serial cable using the module’s diagnostics, preventing a potential process upset in a chemical plant.

WESTINGHOUSE 5X00167G01

WESTINGHOUSE 5X00167G01

Technical Deep Dive & Overview

The 1C31166G02 is a serial link controller module​ designed exclusively for Emerson’s Ovation DCS. It acts as a bridge between Ovation controllers and legacy serial devices, enabling seamless communication and integration. Here’s how it works:
  1. Signal Reception: The module receives serial data from field devices (e.g., PLCs, RTUs) via RS-232 or RS-485 ports.
  2. Protocol Conversion: The module converts the incoming serial data (e.g., Modbus RTU) into a format compatible with Ovation DCS.
  3. Data Routing: The converted data is sent to the Ovation controller via the backplane bus for processing.
  4. Command Execution: The Ovation controller sends commands (e.g., “open valve”) to the module, which converts them into the appropriate serial protocol and transmits them to the field device.
  5. Diagnostic Feedback: The module sends diagnostic data (e.g., port status, error rates) to the Ovation HMI, enabling real-time monitoring and troubleshooting.
What sets the 1C31166G02 apart is its multi-protocol support​ and seamless Ovation integration. It eliminates the need for custom protocol converters, reducing system cost and complexity. The module also supports hot-swapping, allowing maintenance without system shutdown—critical for 24/7 operations.

Final Notes

The 1C31166G02 is a critical component for integrating legacy serial devices into modern Ovation DCS architectures. Its multi-protocol support, dual ports, and seamless integration make it ideal for power generation, water treatment, and oil & petrochemical applications. By following the installation tips above, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure reliable communication between Ovation controllers and legacy devices.