ABB CI547 | Communication board with slave processor

Description

Product Overview: ABB CI547

The ABB CI547 is a communication board with an on-board slave processor designed to off-load network traffic from the main controller CPU in ABB Advant/AC-800M families. Installed as a module in control cabinets, CI547 takes over routing and message handling for MasterBus 300 networks, reducing CPU load and improving deterministic response in distributed systems. The board’s embedded processor makes communication throughput largely independent of the host CPU load, which is particularly valuable in installations with many nodes or heavy messaging requirements.

In practice, the CI547 is chosen when a stable, high-performance communication backbone is needed for process automation, drive control, or I/O aggregation. The module supports common industrial interface protocols used within ABB ecosystems and is field-replaceable, which simplifies service and inventory management for maintenance teams. The compact form factor and proven ABB design enable fast replacement and long-term serviceability in industrial environments.

Technical Specifications: CI547

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Model	CI547 (3BNP004429R1)
Product type	Communication board with slave processor
Primary function	MasterBus 300 interface; off-loads central CPU message traffic
Supply voltage	Typical module supply as per host rack (refer to AC-800M docs)
Ethernet / interfaces	MasterBus 300 (fieldbus) physical interface
Communication speed	Designed for MasterBus 300 speeds; routing independent of CPU
Dimensions (L × H × W)	125 × 30 × 257 mm
Weight	Approx. 0.165 kg
Mounting	Rack / module slot (AC800M / Advant mounting)
Environmental range	Industrial rating; temperature and humidity per ABB spec

CI547

(Values above come from ABB module documentation and official datasheets; confirm host power details against your controller rack specification before installation.)

Main Features and Advantages: CI547

The CI547 removes communication processing from the main CPU by handling routing and message management on a dedicated microprocessor. This design yields two immediate operational benefits: predictable communication latency regardless of CPU load, and reduced processing overhead on primary control processors. For plants with many MasterBus nodes or where frequent I/O polling is required, CI547 delivers measurable improvements in cycle times and overall system responsiveness.

Architecturally, CI547 supports robust MasterBus 300 topologies and is compatible with Advant/Safeguard / AC-800M control platforms. The module is field-replaceable and commonly used as a maintenance spare to minimize Mean Time To Repair (MTTR). It is engineered for industrial tolerance — with solid connector assemblies, board-level shielding and firmware that supports built-in diagnostics. These features reduce troubleshooting time and improve mean time between failures (MTBF) for critical control loops.

For system builders and integrators, CI547 simplifies scaling: adding nodes to MasterBus networks will not proportionally increase central CPU load. That makes network expansion, retrofit projects, and mixed-vendor integrations easier to implement while retaining deterministic behavior. The board’s firmware and configuration utilities allow technicians to monitor link status, detect routing errors, and apply updates without extended downtime.

Installation and Maintenance: CI547

Pre-installation: Verify the host cabinet and slot type conform to ABB AC-800M / Advant mechanical and electrical rules. Power down the controller per standard safety procedures. Confirm slot pinout and backplane supply voltages before insertion. Grounding and EMC shielding practices should follow site standards to avoid communication disturbances.

Mounting and commissioning: Insert CI547 into the designated communication slot; ensure the board seats firmly and that any retaining clamps are secured. After power up, observe module LEDs for basic health and link indications. Use ABB configuration tools to assign network addresses and verify MasterBus connectivity. Perform link stress tests if the network will carry high polling rates.

Routine maintenance: Inspect connectors and board seating during scheduled outages. Keep spare CI547 modules on hand for hot-swap replacement to minimize downtime. Periodically review module diagnostics and update firmware through approved ABB processes when critical fixes or performance improvements are released. Handle the module with ESD protection during service.

When replacing a failed unit, synchronize configuration parameters from the functional unit or backup to reduce reconfiguration time and ensure consistent network behavior across MasterBus segments.

CI547

Related Products

PM150 – Central processor module often paired with communication boards to form the core of Advant controllers; CI547 reduces its message handling load.
CI553 – Alternative communications module for other MasterBus/fieldbus configurations; use when different physical interfaces are required.
CI860 – High-performance CI module supporting advanced protocol sets for AC800M networks.
IM853 – Interface module used to bridge S800 I/O to controller racks; complementary where mixed I/O types exist.
TB820 – Termination and distribution unit for neat wiring and secure connector management in controller cabinets.

Product Warranty

Our company provides a one-year quality warranty for the CI547 covering manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions not caused by misuse. During the warranty period, if the module exhibits functional failure under normal operating conditions, we will provide replacement services. For discontinued or scarce models, our global supply network helps us source parts quickly to support continuous operation and reduce downtime.