May 26, 2026

Foxboro FBM242 Product Description

The Foxboro FBM242 (Part Number: P0926GW) is a high-density, externally powered Discrete Output Module designed for the Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Foxboro I/A Series and Foxboro Evo™ DCS platforms. As a core digital output component, it provides 16 galvanically isolated channels for switching industrial loads, delivering reliable on/off control of field devices in harsh process environments. Built with a rugged, flame-retardant ABS housing and conformal-coated circuitry, it meets ISA S71.04 G3 standards for high noise, vibration, and temperature conditions. The FBM242 supports external voltage sources for field circuits, fault-safe output configuration, and hot-swap capability, making it ideal for mission-critical applications requiring high-availability discrete control.

Description

Foxboro FBM242 Product Description

Product Overview

Basic Information

Manufacturer: Foxboro (Invensys, now Schneider Electric)
Model: FBM242 (Part Number: P0926GW)
Product Type: Discrete Output Module, Digital Output Fieldbus Module
Applicable System: EcoStruxure Foxboro I/A Series DCS, Foxboro Evo™ Process Automation System
Mounting Style: DIN rail or rack-mounted via Compact 200 Series baseplates
Protection Rating: IP20; flame-retardant ABS housing with conformal coating
Certifications: CE, UL, CSA compliant; meets ISA S71.04 G3 harsh environment standards
Output Channels: 16 galvanically isolated discrete output channels
Field Power Supply: External 15–60 VDC, 120 VAC/125 VDC, or 240 VAC
Module Power: 24 VDC ±10% (21–26 VDC input); redundant power support
Power Consumption: ≤4.5 W (maximum per module)
Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C (conformal coated); 0°C to +60°C (standard)
Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
Vibration/Shock: Compliant with ISA S71.04 G3; 30 g half-sine shock (11 ms)
MTBF: ≥190,000 hours
Weight: Approximately 0.32 kg
Dimensions: 102 mm (H) × 114 mm (W) × 25 mm (D)
Country of Origin: United States

Function and Positioning

The FBM242 functions as the primary high-density discrete output hub for Foxboro DCS systems, positioned to deliver reliable, isolated on/off control of industrial field devices in process plants where high-channel-count digital output is required. Its core role is to act as an interface between the DCS control processor (FCP270/FCP280) and discrete field devices, converting low-level control signals into high-power switching outputs. Each of its 16 channels is galvanically isolated (600 VAC for 1 minute), preventing electrical noise and voltage transients from damaging the DCS or other modules. The FBM242 supports fault-safe configuration, allowing users to set default output states (on/off) during power loss or system faults, enhancing process safety. It also supports hot-swap installation and removal, enabling online maintenance without disrupting ongoing control operations. By providing high-density, isolated outputs, the FBM242 simplifies system design, reduces wiring complexity, and improves reliability in large-scale discrete control applications.

Core Performance Parameters

Output Channels: 16 independent galvanically isolated discrete output channels
Field Voltage Compatibility: 15–60 VDC, 120 VAC/125 VDC, 240 VAC (external power required)
Load Current: 2.25 A maximum per channel (continuous); 8 A inrush (20 ms at 30°C)
On-State Voltage Drop: ≤0.2 V at 2.25 A
Off-State Leakage Current: ≤0.1 mA
Isolation Strength: 600 VAC (1 minute) between channels and ground
Controller Compatibility: Foxboro FCP270, FCP280 Field Control Processors; I/A Series DCS
Redundancy Support: 1:1 module redundancy; redundant power input support
Fault-Safe Configuration: Software-configurable default output states (on/off)
Diagnostics: Multi-color LEDs for power, channel status, and fault indication; remote diagnostics via I/A Series System Manager
Hot-Swap Capability: Supported for online installation, removal, or replacement
EMI Compliance: Industrial-grade noise immunity (IEC 61000-4-2/3/4/5); G3 harsh environment compliant

General Adaptable Accessories

Baseplates: Compact 200 Series single/redundant baseplates, DIN rail mounting kits, rack-mounting brackets
Termination Assemblies (TA): 16-channel isolated TA modules, screw-terminal blocks, bus bar connectors for field power distribution
Cables: Shielded twisted pair cables for FCP-to-FBM communication, external power supply cables, redundant synchronization cables
Redundancy Accessories: Redundant 24 VDC power supplies, fault-tolerant interconnection cables, redundancy status monitors
Mounting & Protection: Anti-vibration brackets, ESD protection modules, conformal coating kits, hazardous area barrier modules
Spare Parts: Replacement housing assemblies, LED indicator boards, channel output relays, connector kits, power input terminals

Applicable Equipment and Fields

The FBM242 is designed for process industries requiring high-density, isolated discrete output control with fault-safe operation, focusing on high-reliability industrial environments. Key sectors include oil and gas (refining, petrochemicals, offshore platforms), thermal power generation, chemical manufacturing, pulp and paper, water and wastewater treatment, pharmaceuticals, metals and mining, and fertilizer production. It is ideal for controlling discrete field devices such as motor starters, solenoid valves, relays, indicator lights, alarms, and actuator coils. The FBM242’s G3 harsh environment rating, 16 isolated channels, fault-safe configuration, and hot-swap capability make it the preferred discrete output module for mission-critical applications demanding high availability, precise on/off control, and simplified system integration.

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