Emerson 406A112G16 WDPF Keyboard Cable Assembly
Product Overview
Emerson 406A112G16 is a factory-terminated, shielded keyboard cable assembly engineered exclusively for legacy Westinghouse WDPF Distributed Control System (DCS) human-machine interface (HMI) applications. Designed to connect WDPF operator workstations (WEStation/MMI) to dedicated WDPF keyboards, trackballs, or serial peripheral devices, this assembly provides a robust, noise-immune communication link for mission-critical industrial control environments. Manufactured under Emerson’s strict quality protocols, the cable features precision-machined connectors, high-performance shielding, and durable outer jacketing to ensure reliable, long-term operation in high-electromagnetic-interference (EMI) industrial settings. The pre-assembled design eliminates field wiring errors, reduces installation time, and guarantees consistent signal integrity for WDPF console communication.
Basic Product Information
Part Number: 406A112G16
Manufacturer: Emerson Automation Solutions (formerly Westinghouse Process Control)
Product Type: WDPF Keyboard Cable Assembly / 25-Pin Adapter Cable
Compatible Systems: Westinghouse WDPF DCS, WEStation Operator Consoles, WDPF MMI Workstations
Connector Configuration: One end custom WDPF keyboard interface connector; opposite end DB25 (25-pin) male adapter
Cable Length: Standard 1.8 meters (6 feet)
Country of Origin: United States
Weight: Approximately 1.42 kilograms
Warranty: 12 months for new and factory-tested units
Certifications: Emerson factory tested, EMC compliant, CE marked, UL 1061 flame retardant certified
Core Functions
The 406A112G16 serves as a critical HMI interconnection component for WDPF DCS installations, enabling seamless, reliable communication between operator workstations and input devices. Its primary functions include translating WDPF keyboard interface signals to DB25 serial protocol, ensuring compatibility between legacy WDPF consoles and standard 25-pin peripherals. The integrated shielding system mitigates EMI and radio-frequency interference (RFI), preventing data corruption and ensuring stable transmission of keystroke, cursor control, and diagnostic signals in harsh industrial environments. The factory-crimped connectors deliver consistent electrical performance, eliminating loose connections or signal degradation common with field-assembled cables. Additionally, the assembly supports hot-swappable peripheral replacement, minimizing downtime during maintenance or device upgrades.
Technical Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Conductor Type: Stranded tinned copper, 22 AWG
Conductor Count: 8 conductors for signal and power transmission
Characteristic Impedance: 120 ohms
Insulation Rating: 300 VAC
Insulation Resistance: ≥100 megohms at 25°C
Shielding Construction: Foil shield plus braided copper shield (100% coverage)
Connector Plating: Gold-plated contacts for corrosion resistance and low contact resistance
Signal Protocol: WDPF MMI keyboard/serial communication protocol
Data Rate: Up to 19.2 kbps
Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to +75°C
Storage Temperature Range: -30°C to +80°C
Relative Humidity: 5% to 95%, non-condensing
Flame Retardancy: Compliant with UL 1061 standards
Chemical Resistance: Resistant to industrial oils, solvents, and abrasives
EMI/RFI Protection: EMC compliant for industrial control environments
Mechanical Specifications
Outer Jacket Material: Flexible PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
Cable Diameter: 6.4 mm (0.25 inches)
Minimum Bend Radius: 8 times cable diameter (51.2 mm)
Pull Tension Rating: ≤50 pounds during installation
Connector Material: High-impact thermoplastic housing with metal locking clips
Mating Cycles: ≥500 insertions/extractions
Compatibility
Emerson 406A112G16 is fully compatible with all Westinghouse WDPF DCS components, including WEStation operator workstations, WDPF MMI consoles, and dedicated WDPF keyboard/trackball units. It serves as a direct replacement for obsolete WDPF keyboard cable assemblies, ensuring backward compatibility with existing WDPF installations. The custom WDPF connector mates securely with console keyboard ports, while the DB25 adapter supports connection to standard 25-pin serial devices, eliminating the need for additional adapters or wiring. This compatibility ensures seamless integration into both new and legacy WDPF systems without hardware modifications.
Industrial Applications
This cable assembly is deployed in mission-critical WDPF-controlled industrial processes where reliable HMI communication is essential:
Power Generation: Thermal power plants, combined-cycle facilities, and nuclear power stations
Petrochemical Industry: Oil refineries, natural gas processing plants, and chemical manufacturing facilities
Heavy Manufacturing: Pulp and paper mills, mining operations, cement plants, and metallurgical facilities
Process Industries: Any WDPF-based industrial plant requiring stable operator console-to-input device communication
Installation Guidelines
Prior to installation, inspect the cable assembly for physical damage, including cracked jackets, bent connector pins, or frayed shielding. Route the cable away from high-EMI sources such as motors, transformers, and power cables to prevent signal interference. Avoid sharp bends that exceed the minimum bend radius and ensure the cable is not subjected to excessive tension during installation. Align the custom WDPF connector pins with the console port, insert fully, and secure using the integrated locking clips. Connect the DB25 adapter to the peripheral device, ensuring a tight, secure fit. Ground the cable shield at both ends to cabinet ground (resistance <1 ohm) to maximize EMI/RFI protection. Always disconnect system power before connecting or disconnecting the assembly to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to sensitive components.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Perform quarterly visual inspections of the cable assembly, checking for jacket wear, connector corrosion, or bent pins. Conduct annual continuity testing and shield integrity checks to ensure electrical performance. Common issues include communication loss, which may result from loose connector seating, improper shield grounding, or physical cable damage. Data errors typically occur due to EMI exposure or damaged shielding; re-route the cable away from interference sources and inspect for shield breaks. Intermittent faults often stem from corroded or bent connector pins; clean contacts with ESD-safe cleaner and straighten damaged pins. Replace the assembly if physical damage or electrical faults are irreparable to maintain system reliability.
Ordering Information
Part Number: 406A112G16
Product Category: DCS Spare Parts → WDPF System → HMI Cables & Adapters
Availability: New original and factory-tested refurbished units (limited stock)
Standard Lead Time: 2–4 weeks; rush shipping available for urgent orders
Order Requirements: Specify WDPF system serial number and workstation model to confirm compatibility
Packaging: Anti-static bag with foam protection to prevent ESD damage during shipping
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