May 26, 2026

Foxboro FC9821KA Product Description

The Foxboro FC9821KA is a high-performance communication interface module designed for the Foxboro I/A Series Distributed Control System (DCS), now under Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure portfolio. Engineered as a critical data exchange hub, it enables seamless, reliable communication between the DCS core, field devices, and third-party systems. Built for G3 harsh industrial environments, it delivers robust connectivity, high data throughput, and long-term operational stability for process automation applications.

Description

Foxboro FC9821KA Product Description

Product Overview

Basic Information

Manufacturer: Foxboro (Invensys, now Schneider Electric)
Model: FC9821KA
Product Type: Communication Interface Module
Applicable System: Foxboro I/A Series DCS (I/A 8.x and later), F-Series I/O Architecture
Mounting Style: Rack-mounted, plug-in to dedicated DCS backplane
Protection Rating: IP20 (designed for cabinet installation)
Construction: Fully sealed, heavy-duty metal housing with conformal coating for dust, vibration, and corrosion resistance
Certifications: CE, UL, CSA, ATEX, IEC 61508 SIL 2 compliant
MTBF: ≥120,000 hours
Weight: Approximately 1.5 kg
Country of Origin: United States

Function and Positioning

The FC9821KA serves as the core communication gateway for the Foxboro I/A Series DCS, positioned to bridge the control layer, field layer, and enterprise layer. Its primary role is to facilitate high-speed, bidirectional data transmission between the DCS controller (e.g., FCP270/FCP280), I/O modules, and external devices such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems. It supports protocol conversion, data routing, and network redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted communication even in the event of a network fault. As a key component of the I/A 8.x system, it enables unified data integration via standard and proprietary protocols, simplifying system architecture and reducing maintenance complexity. It also supports online configuration and firmware updates without disrupting ongoing processes.

Core Performance Parameters

Communication Processor: 32-bit industrial communication CPU, 500MHz processing speed
Data Throughput: Up to 100Mbps for Ethernet communication; 2Mbps for fieldbus communication
Interface Configuration: Dual redundant Ethernet ports (RJ45/fiber), 4-channel HDLC fieldbus, 1 RS485 serial port
Supported Protocols: Foxboro I/A Series Bus, Modbus TCP/RTU, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Foundation Fieldbus, HART
Redundancy Support: 1+1 module redundancy, automatic failover with ≤50ms switching time
Data Processing Capacity: Handles up to 512 data points per second; supports 256 simultaneous communication connections
Environmental Ratings: Operating temperature 0°C to +60°C; G3 harsh environment compliant (resistance to vibration, dust, and corrosive gases)
Power Supply: 24VDC ±10%, power consumption ≤30W
Configuration: Supports offline/online parameter setting via Foxboro System Manager software

General Adaptable Accessories

DCS Backplanes: F-series dedicated communication backplanes (e.g., SY-0400xx series), redundant backplanes for 1+1 module configuration
Communication Cables: CAT6 Ethernet copper cables, industrial single-mode/multi-mode fiber optic cables, RS485 shielded twisted pair cables
Expansion Adapters: Fiber-to-Ethernet media converters, serial port expansion modules, protocol conversion gateways for third-party device integration
Power Supply Units: 24VDC industrial redundant power supplies, compatible with DCS cabinet power distribution systems
Mounting Accessories: Standard 19-inch rack mounting brackets, anti-vibration mounting kits for harsh industrial sites

Applicable Equipment and Fields

The FC9821KA is widely applied in process industries requiring high-reliability communication and precise data exchange. Key sectors include oil and gas exploration and production, petrochemical refining, thermal and nuclear power generation, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, pulp and paper processing, water treatment, and metals and mining. It is ideal for integrating field instruments, actuators, and control devices with the Foxboro I/A Series DCS, enabling real-time data acquisition, remote monitoring, and coordinated automatic control in large-scale industrial automation systems.

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