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Field Device Controller 280

EcoStruxure™ Foxboro DCS


The Field Device Controller (FDC) 280 is an optionally redundant, field-mountable device controller from Schneider Electric.

A close-up of several electronic devices

Overview

The Field Device Controller 280 provides control and Ethernet/serial interfaces between single or dual-ported PLCs, drives, and other distributed control devices and EcoStruxure™ Foxboro DCS. The FDC 280 optimizes the integration of control devices such as PLCs and increases flexibility — while minimizing system engineering, footprint, and cost.

Features

  • Liquid crystal display (LCD) — shows letterbug and real-time roles and statuses.
  • Support for multiple networked connections — Ethernet, RS232, RS485, RS422.
  • 50% reduction in footprint and wiring compared with CP plus FDSI solution.
  • Downloadable and upgradable protocol drivers, online.
  • Drivers include:
    • Serial (RS232; RS422; RS485):
      • Modbus RTU.
    • Ethernet:
      • Modbus TCP Client.
      • TSAA (Triconex™ System Access).
      • OPC UA Client.
      • Ethernet/IP Scanner.

Benefits

  • Reduces engineering effort and installation footprint.
  • Achieves lower cost of ownership with future-proof design.
  • Provides greater flexibility in control system design/implementation.

Applications

  • Hydrocarbon processing.
  • Chemical and specialty chemicals.
  • Upstream oil and gas.
  • Power generation.
  • Metals and mining.
  • Water and wastewater.
  • Pharmaceutical and life sciences.
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What is a field device controller?

A Field Device Controller (FDC) is a device that facilities use in the control of many industrial processes. This is a part of a larger system that consists of sensors, actuators, and other field devices. We can use FDC to control these devices, monitor their status, and respond to any issues that may occur during their operation. Usually, it is microprocessor-based equipment that is capable of executing many advanced algorithms in real-time. The equipped sensors send signals that FDC uses to make decisions based on the collected data. These devices can also send output signals if there’s a need for any adjustments.

What is FCD280?

The Foxboro Field Device Controller 280 is a device that ensures control and communication between single or dual-ported PLCs, drives, and other distributed control devices. It supports EcoStruxure™ Foxboro DCS and operates through either Ethernet or serial interfaces. This equipment can also optimize the integration of control devices in the form of PLCs and increase their flexibility. This translates into reduced system engineering effort, lower installation footprint, and reduced expenses in the form of lower ownership costs.