ABB NE870 Network Router 3BSE080239R1

ABB NE870 Network Router 3BSE080239R1

1. Product Overview

The NE870 is no ordinary router, it combines the functions of a router and a firewall in one device. It is a DIN-rail mounted device with 11 ports, including 3 10/100/1000 Mbit RJ45 ports and 8 10/100 Mbit RJ45 ports. This configuration provides flexibility in connecting network devices with different speed requirements.

One of its distinctive features is the redundant 24V DC power input. This redundant power design greatly increases the reliability of the router. In industrial environments where continuous operation is critical, the ability to switch to a backup power supply in the event of a primary power failure ensures that the network continues to operate, minimising potential downtime.

2. Security Partitioning and Network Segmentation

The concept of security partitioning, as described in the IEC 62443 standard, is the foundation of modern industrial network security, and the NE870 plays a key role in implementing this concept. It is able to divide the system into different network areas and security partitions. This partitioning allows different security measures to be applied to different zones depending on their specific risk level and the potential impact of security events.

For example, it can be used to separate the client/server network from the control network. This separation helps to contain potential security threats. If a security breach occurs in the client/server network, it is less likely to propagate to the more critical control network. Similarly, it can be used to isolate different control and security networks, ensuring the integrity of security-related systems. In addition, the NE870 is able to create RNRP tunnel areas between RNRP (Redundant Network Routing Protocol) networks, further enhancing the security and reliability of the network.

3. Redundant Network Routing Protocol (RNRP) Support

The NE870 revolutionises industrial networks with its support for RNRP, which creates two physically separate networks within an 800xa system. This redundancy is critical to avoid a single point of failure. In a traditional network setup, if a critical network component fails, the entire network can go down. However, with RNRP and the NE870, when one network path fails, data can be automatically re-routed through the redundant network, ensuring the continued flow of data and system uptime.

4. Product Features and Benefits

4.1 Redundant Power and Alarm Functions

In addition to redundant power inputs, the NE870 is equipped with alarm functions. This feature immediately notifies the network administrator when power-related problems or other critical failures occur. This proactive alarm system enables a quick response and minimises the impact of potential disturbances.

4.2 Wide Operating Voltage Range

With a wide operating voltage range of 16 VDC to 60 VDC, the NE870 is able to adapt to different power conditions in industrial environments. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of scenarios, whether in a factory with stable power supply or in a remote industrial site where power fluctuations are more frequent.

4.3 Stable Installation and Monitoring Capability

The back of the NE870 is equipped with a cast DIN clip for stable mounting on DIN rails. This is a standard mounting method for many industrial control panels, ensuring easy and stable installation.

On the monitoring side, the router has digital I/O capability. This feature allows it to interact with other devices in the industrial network to monitor network status, such as network traffic conditions, status of connected devices, and potential network bottlenecks.

4.4 Easy Management and Configuration

The NE870 is equipped with a console port that supports management through a command line interface (CLI). This gives network administrators granular control over the router's settings for advanced configuration and troubleshooting. It also features a USB port that simplifies the process of saving and loading system configurations. This is especially useful when deploying multiple NE870 routers in a network, or when changing router configurations during maintenance and system upgrades.

4.5 Ethernet Connectivity

Equipped with three RJ-45 Ethernet 1000BaseTX connectors, the NE870 supports high-speed data transmission for applications that require fast transfer of large amounts of data, such as real-time monitoring and control systems. The router is also equipped with status indicators that provide visual feedback on the router's operating status, such as power status, network connection status, and data transmission activity, allowing technicians to quickly view the router's operating status.

5. Application areas

ABB NE870 Network Router 3BSE080239R1 is widely used in various industrial fields. In manufacturing plants, it can be used to manage network traffic between different production lines, ensuring that critical control systems are isolated and protected while enabling efficient data transmission. In power generation facilities, it helps maintain the integrity of networks that control power generation, distribution and monitoring systems. It is also suitable for the oil and gas industry, where reliable network connectivity is essential for remote monitoring and control of oil wells, pipelines and refineries.