Valmet A413026 FBC Board – Revision M1 (Fieldbus Controller)

The Valmet A413026 FBC (Fieldbus Controller) board is a high‑performance communication module that provides seamless gateway functionality between the Valmet DNA system and various industrial fieldbus networks. The revision M1 enhances protocol support and increases data throughput. It enables the integration of third‑party devices such as drives, analyzers, and remote I/O stations, extending the control system's reach into the field level.

Supported Fieldbus Protocols

The FBC board supports multiple protocols via software selection, including PROFIBUS‑DP (master/slave), DeviceNet, CANopen, and Modbus RTU/TCP. It can operate as a master controller for up to 125 slave devices, or as a slave to a higher‑level PLC. The module also supports OPC UA and MQTT for IIoT applications. The protocol configuration is stored in onboard flash memory and can be changed without firmware updates.

Processor and Memory

At its core, the A413026 uses a 32‑bit ARM Cortex‑M4 processor running at 120 MHz, with 512 KB of SRAM and 1 MB of flash memory for protocol stacks and configuration data. It includes a dedicated communication coprocessor for handling time‑critical bus tasks, offloading the main CPU. The board also features a real‑time clock and a hardware watchdog.

Communication Interfaces

The board provides two independent RS‑485 ports (for PROFIBUS or Modbus), one CAN port (for DeviceNet/CANopen), and one Ethernet port (10/100Base‑T) for Modbus TCP or OPC UA. All ports are galvanically isolated with 1500 V DC. The Ethernet port includes an integrated switch for daisy‑chaining multiple modules. A USB port is available for local configuration and firmware uploads.

Data Exchange and Diagnostics

The FBC board exchanges process data with the host controller via the Valmet backplane bus, supporting cyclic transfers up to 1 kHz. It can handle up to 1024 bytes of input and 1024 bytes of output data per slave. Advanced diagnostics include bus error counters, node status, and cable quality monitoring. A built‑in web server provides a graphical overview of the bus and connected devices.

Hardware and Mounting

The module is a 6U x 4HP Eurocard (233 mm x 20 mm) with a 96‑pin DIN connector. The front panel has LED indicators for power, bus activity, and error conditions, along with a 9‑pin D‑sub connector for PROFIBUS and screw terminals for CAN and RS‑485. It draws 350 mA from the 5 V rail and 100 mA from the 24 V rail.

Environmental Specifications

Operating temperature: 0 °C to +55 °C; storage: ‑40 °C to +85 °C; humidity: 10‑90 % non‑condensing. The board is conformal coated and meets EN 61000‑6‑2 and EN 61000‑6‑4 standards. MTBF is 850,000 hours.

Installation and Configuration

Install the board in a free slot. Connect the fieldbus cables to the appropriate ports. Use the Valmet Engineering Tool to select the protocol, set node addresses, and configure the I/O mapping. The module can import EDS/GSD files for device integration. After configuration, download the settings and test communication.

Applications

The A413026 is used to integrate variable‑speed drives, process analyzers, and remote I/O into the DNA system. It is common in paper machine drives, chemical dosing systems, and packaging lines.

Maintenance and Updates

Firmware updates are performed over Ethernet. The web interface allows remote diagnostics. Periodically check the bus LED for errors. If a communication fault occurs, check the cable terminations and bus termination.

Conclusion

The Valmet A413026 FBC Board Ver.M1 provides robust, multi‑protocol fieldbus connectivity, enabling seamless integration of diverse field devices into the Valmet automation environment.