ABB SACO 64D4 Digital Annunciator Unit
Product Series: SACO 64D4 | System: SPACOM
The ABB SACO 64D4 is a high-performance digital annunciator unit designed for demanding supervisory and alarm reporting applications. As an integral part of the SPACOM system, this 64-channel unit provides reliable, high-resolution alarm indication and event sequence reporting for critical infrastructure, including electric power substations, industrial plants, marine installations, and building automation systems.
Housed in a 19-inch rack with a 3U height, the SACO 64D4 combines four independent 16-channel annunciator modules with a redundant power supply module. Its modular architecture ensures flexibility, scalability, and ease of maintenance. The unit supports both normally open and normally closed field contacts, and offers a comprehensive set of programmable alarm sequences to suit a wide variety of operational requirements.
Key Features and Capabilities
64 Alarm Channels: Four independent 16-channel annunciator modules (SACO 16D2B) providing extensive monitoring capacity.
High Resolution Event Recording: Event sequence reporting with a resolution better than 10 ms, enabling accurate fault analysis.
Flexible Field Contact Inputs: Each channel configurable for normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC) contacts, with selectable input and reset delays.
Standardized Alarm Sequences: Supports ISA and DIN standard sequences (ISA A, ISA A-1, ISA M-1, ISA R-1, DIN 19235) for visual and audible indication.
16 Programmable Reflash Relays: Freely groupable output relays for group alarm signaling, with multiple operating modes including Field Contact Following (FCFR) and Acknowledge Action Controlled (AACR).
Serial Communication (SPA Bus): RS-485 interface with optional fiber-optic connectivity for integration with higher-level SCADA and control systems.
Built-in Self-Supervision: Continuous monitoring of internal voltages, microprocessor function, and field contact supply, with FAULT LED and supervision relay output.
Redundant Power Supply: Dual galvanically isolated power inputs (options: 19-70 Vdc / 80-265 Vac/dc) for high availability.
Advanced Alarm and Event Handling
The SACO 64D4 is engineered to provide clear and unambiguous alarm indication. Each of the 64 channels features a super-bright LED indicator and a dedicated legend plate for user-defined labeling. The annunciator supports a range of operational sequences, from automatic reset to manual reset with visual ringback on return to normal state. The audible alarm output can be silenced via the SILENCE push-button or through an external remote input.
For advanced applications, the unit includes extensive interlocking capabilities. Each channel can be configured with interlocking inputs that block individual reflash signals or entire channels, preventing nuisance alarms during specific operational modes. Up to eight interlocking levels can be programmed, allowing complex logic schemes to be implemented without external relay circuitry. The interlocking lines can be shared between multiple SACO 64D4 units in a distributed system.
Communication and System Integration
The SACO 64D4 is equipped with a serial communication port compliant with the SPA bus protocol (RS-485). This interface enables connection to higher-level systems such as MicroSCADA, as well as to other SPACOM devices. Fiber-optic connection modules (SPA-ZC series) are available for electrically noisy environments, offering transmission distances up to 2 km with glass fiber.
Through the serial link, the annunciator can transmit event registers with time stamps, channel status, and programmed parameter values. Remote control functions include time synchronization, audible device reset, alarm acknowledge and reset, and even control of output relays. The unit can also be configured and parameterized remotely using SMS software or locally with the portable programming module SACO 16PM.
For distributed systems, multiple SACO 64D4 units can be interconnected via flat cables or fiber-optic loops. The system supports up to 35 annunciator modules (560 channels) in a centralized configuration, and can be expanded with relay output extension units such as the SACO 128R4 to provide additional contact outputs for parallel lamp indication or contact doubling.
Reliability and Self-Supervision
Reliability is a cornerstone of the SACO 64D4 design. The unit incorporates a comprehensive self-supervision system that continuously monitors internal logic voltages, microprocessor program execution, and the integrity of the 48 V field contact supply. In the event of an internal fault, the normally energized supervision relay drops off, and the FAULT LED illuminates. The unit also features a "pumping" contact supervision function that prevents a faulty field contact from flooding the communication bus with excessive alarms.
The redundant power supply configuration ensures uninterrupted operation even if one supply source fails. The power supply module is plug-in replaceable, and all parameter settings are stored in non-volatile EEPROM memory, preserving configuration data across power cycles. The unit is designed for a service temperature range of -10°C to +55°C and offers IP40 protection from the front panel.
Technical Specifications
Parameter Specification
Number of Alarm Channels 64 (4 x 16-channel modules)
Field Contact Voltage 48 Vdc (internally generated)
Input/Reset Delays Selectable: 5 ms, 20 ms, 100 ms, 1 s, 5 s, 20 s, 60 s, 160 s
Alarm Sequences ISA A, ISA A-1, ISA M-1, ISA R-1, DIN 19235
Reflash Output Relays 16 programmable (14 group alarms + audible + supervision)
Serial Interface RS-485 (SPA bus), optional fiber-optic
Data Rates 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 baud
Event Register Capacity 50 events with time stamps
Power Supply Options 19-70 Vdc / 80-265 Vac/dc (dual redundant)
Power Consumption Approx. 20 W
Weight 8.1 kg
Protection Class IP40 (front panel)
Application Areas
The ABB SACO 64D4 is ideally suited for a wide range of applications where reliable alarm annunciation and event recording are essential:
Electric Power Plants and Substations: Monitoring of circuit breakers, transformers, and protection relays.
Industrial Plants and Processes: Alarm supervision for critical process parameters, safety interlocks, and machinery status.
Marine and Offshore Installations: Alarm systems for engine room, navigation, and safety equipment.
Building Automation: Monitoring of fire alarms, HVAC systems, and security systems.
Water Treatment Plants: Supervision of pumps, valves, and chemical dosing systems.
Ordering and Accessories
The SACO 64D4 is supplied complete with legend text films, a cover plate, spacers for rack mounting, an intermediate cable, and fixing screws. Optional accessories include the acknowledge module SWDM 3A1 (for local push-button control), the programming module SACO 16PM, and the relay output extension unit SACO 128R4. Fiber-optic connection modules (SPA-ZC17, SPA-ZC21) and the LON/SPA gateway (SPA-ZC100) are available for system integration.
For detailed ordering information, please specify the desired auxiliary supply voltages and any required accessories.
Maintenance and Support
The SACO 64D4 is practically maintenance-free under normal operating conditions. The plug-in module design allows for easy replacement in case of failure. Parameter memory circuits can be transferred from a faulty microprocessor module to a replacement, preserving all configuration settings without the need for reprogramming. The unit's self-supervision system provides continuous health monitoring, and the test push-button allows for quick verification of all LED indicators.
With its robust design, extensive feature set, and proven reliability, the ABB SACO 64D4 Digital Annunciator Unit is a trusted solution for critical alarm monitoring and event sequence reporting in demanding industrial and utility environments.