Industry Trends in Drive Communication

In modern industrial automation, the demand for high-speed, reliable communication between controllers and drives is growing rapidly. Sectional drive applications, such as those in rolling mills and paper machines, require deterministic data exchange to maintain precise synchronization. The DriveBus protocol, designed specifically for ABB systems, addresses these needs with a dedicated interface that ensures low-latency communication.

Introducing the CI858 Communication Interface

The ABB CI858 is a communication interface unit that connects ABB Drives and ABB Special I/O units to an AC 800M controller via the DriveBus protocol. It is powered directly by the processor unit through the CEX-Bus, eliminating the need for an external power source. This design simplifies installation and reduces cabling complexity in control cabinets.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The CI858 operates as a master on the DriveBus network, supporting a transmission speed of 8 Mbit/s. It features an optical connector for robust data transfer and consumes a typical 200 mA from a 24 V supply. The unit supports hot swap functionality, allowing replacement without system shutdown, and can connect up to 24 ABB drives per interface.

Applications in Modern Manufacturing

In rolling mill drive systems, the CI858 enables precise coordination of multiple motors for consistent material processing. For paper machine control systems, it ensures synchronized operation of sectional drives, improving product quality and reducing waste. The unit's hot swap capability minimizes downtime during maintenance, enhancing overall equipment effectiveness.

Compatibility and Integration

The CI858 is designed for use with ABB AC 800M controllers and supports a maximum of two units on the CEX bus. When connecting multiple drives, a branching unit NDBU is required to create a logical bus with a physical star topology. The interface is compatible with ABB's DriveBus protocol, ensuring seamless integration into existing ABB automation architectures.

Frequently Asked Questions About the CI858

What is the transmission speed of the CI858?

The CI858 supports a transmission speed of 8 Mbit/s, providing fast data exchange between the controller and connected drives.

How many ABB drives can be connected to one CI858?

A maximum of 24 ABB drives can be connected to a single CI858. If more than one drive is used, a branching unit NDBU is needed to construct the logical bus.

Does the CI858 require an external power supply?

No, the CI858 is powered by the processor unit via the CEX-Bus and does not require any additional external power source.

Conclusion and Outlook

The ABB CI858 offers a robust solution for high-speed drive communication in demanding industrial environments. Its hot swap support and optical connectivity make it a reliable choice for critical applications. As Industry 4.0 continues to evolve, such dedicated interfaces will remain essential for optimizing production processes.