ABB CI867AK01 Modbus TCP Communication Interface

The ABB CI867AK01 is a high‑performance communication interface module designed for the ABB AC 800M controller family, specifically for the 800xA and Compact Control Builder automation platforms. The CI867AK01 serves as a Modbus TCP gateway, enabling the AC 800M controller to exchange data with a wide variety of third‑party devices including programmable logic controllers, remote terminal units, variable frequency drives, power meters, and other industrial equipment supporting the Modbus TCP protocol. The module is supplied as a kit consisting of the CI867A communication interface and the TP867 baseplate for mounting on the CEX‑Bus backplane.

Communication Capabilities and Protocol Support

The CI867AK01 operates as a Modbus TCP interface, supporting both Modbus TCP Server and Modbus TCP Client roles. The module can function as a master or as a slave on the Modbus TCP network, depending on the configuration and application requirements. The gateway supports communication with up to 70 Modbus TCP nodes, allowing a single AC 800M controller to connect to a large number of field devices without requiring additional communication hardware. The module can also perform protocol conversion between Modbus TCP and other industrial protocols such as PROFIBUS and PROFINET when configured appropriately, serving as a bridge between different automation network standards.

Data Handling and Mapping Capabilities

The CI867AK01 supports the mapping of up to 1024 data points per module, providing ample capacity for most system integration tasks. The data mapping is highly configurable, allowing users to map Modbus holding registers, input registers, coils, and discrete inputs to the AC 800M controller's process data. The configurable data exchange rules enable flexible addressing, byte swapping, scaling, and filtering operations to adapt to the specific data formats and requirements of connected devices. The module uses a hardware‑assisted protocol conversion engine to achieve high throughput while maintaining low latency.

Software Compatibility and System Integration

The CI867AK01 is compatible with ABB 800xA system versions 6.0.3.3 and 6.1.1, as well as Compact Control Builder versions 6.0.0‑3 and 6.1.1 and later revisions. The module is integrated into the system using the standard hardware configuration tools provided by the ABB Control Builder software. Once configured, the communication interface appears to the user program as native I/O, with read and write operations performed using standard function blocks provided in the system library. The configuration process includes defining the Modbus device parameters, specifying the communication timeout and retry behavior, and mapping the data registers between the Modbus device and the AC 800M.

Kit Contents

The CI867AK01 kit includes two primary components: the CI867A communication interface module and the TP867 baseplate. The CI867A module contains the protocol processing engine, dual Ethernet ports for Modbus TCP connectivity, and the interface to the CEX‑Bus. The TP867 baseplate provides the physical mounting on the DIN rail or panel, the CEX‑Bus connector for interfacing with the AC 800M controller, and the terminal blocks for the Ethernet connections and external power supply if required.

Ethernet Interfaces and Network Connections

The CI867A module provides two independent Ethernet ports for Modbus TCP communication. Both ports support 10/100 Base‑T operation with auto‑negotiation of speed and duplex mode. The dual ports can be used in a redundant network configuration, where the module can fail over from one port to the other upon loss of link or communication failure. This redundancy capability enhances system availability in critical applications where uninterrupted communication with field devices is required. The Ethernet ports incorporate isolation transformers and surge protection components to withstand industrial electrical disturbances.

Successor to CI867K01

The CI867AK01 is the functional successor to the discontinued CI867K01 module. The CI867AK01 is functionally equivalent to the CI867K01, providing the same Modbus TCP connectivity, the same CEX‑Bus interface, and the same software configuration methods. For systems that previously used the CI867K01, the CI867AK01 can be used as a direct replacement after a system software update to a compatible version. The physical dimensions and mounting requirements are identical between the two modules, minimizing engineering effort for retrofit projects.

Environmental and Installation Specifications

The CI867AK01 operates from the AC 800M controller's CEX‑Bus power supply, drawing current within the capacity of the bus. The TP867 baseplate includes terminals for the Ethernet connections and, in some configurations, an external 24 V DC power input for the communication interface. The module is designed for indoor installation within a control cabinet, with protection from moisture, dust, and corrosive atmospheres. Operating temperature range is in line with ABB's AC 800M hardware specifications for industrial environments.

Applications and Typical Use Cases

The CI867AK01 is commonly used in industrial automation applications where the ABB AC 800M controller must interface with Modbus TCP devices. Typical installations include oil and gas pipelines where remote terminal units communicate via Modbus TCP, water and wastewater treatment plants where variable speed drives provide flow control, and power monitoring systems where intelligent electronic devices report electrical parameters. The module is also used in building automation, material handling, and factory automation applications requiring integration of diverse Modbus‑enabled devices.