ABB CI858K01 DriveBus Interface Module

The ABB CI858K01 3BSE018135R1, also cataloged as the CI858K01 DriveBus Communication Interface, operates as a dedicated hardware component for high-speed optical drive communication within ABB AC 800M controller platforms.

Hardware Specifications

Backplane Bus Communication & Deterministic Drive Networks

The ABB CI858K01 interfaces directly with the AC 800M CPU over the high-speed CEX-Bus (Communication Expansion Bus) backplane architecture, facilitating deterministic cycle times and high data throughput. Operating as a master or slave device on the optical DriveBus protocol at speeds up to 8 Mbit/s, the module routes process torque, speed commands, and status diagnostics across up to 24 connected variable speed drives. Optical isolation across the physical layer prevents ground loops and electrical interference from entering the backplane bus, while integrated firmware flash compatibility ensures synchronized cyclic data exchange between the controller application logic and field-level drive controllers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the optical DriveBus physical interface isolate controller backplane electronics from drive field noise?

A: By utilizing fiber optic cabling for physical signal transmission, the CI858 module completely decouples high-voltage electrical noise and ground potential differences between variable frequency drives and the sensitive CEX-Bus backplane bus, maintaining total signal integrity.

Q: What physical topology adjustments are required when connecting more than a few ABB drives to a single CI858 module?

A: When multiple drives are networked to a single CI858 interface, external NDBU branching units must be inserted to convert the point-to-point optical link into a physical star topology, accommodating up to the 24-drive limit per channel.

Q: Can the CI858 module be removed or inserted while the AC 800M controller remains powered?

A: Yes. The CI858K01 package includes the TP858 baseplate, which maintains backplane bus continuity. The active CI858 communication module supports hot swapping, permitting physical replacement without disrupting power to the rest of the CEX-Bus rack assembly.

Field Installation Guidelines

Mount the TP858 baseplate onto standard DIN rail within an enclosure meeting IP20 minimum protection standards. Before inserting the CI858 communication module into the TP858 baseplate, verify that all CEX-Bus power distribution wiring is terminated correctly and that 24 VDC power lines are protected against transient spikes. Ensure the optical fiber cables maintain a minimum bend radius according to fiber specifications during routing to prevent attenuation losses on the 8 Mbit/s DriveBus link. When establishing multi-drop or star topologies using NDBU branching units, ground all cable shielding and branching chassis according to standard industrial EMC guidelines. Maintain adequate clearance above and below the module assembly to facilitate natural thermal convection across the 0 to +55 deg C operating temperature range.