Product Core Brief
- Model: PM864AK01
- Order Code: 3BSE018161R1
- Brand: ABB
- Series: AC 800M — High-Performance Redundant CPU
- Core Function: Central processor unit for ABB AC 800M controllers, executing control logic, managing S800 I/O via ModuleBus, and communicating over Ethernet/serial in 800xA DCS environments.
- Product Type: Processor Unit / CPU Module Kit
- Key Specs: PM864A CPU @ 96 MHz | 32 MB RAM (23.522 MB usable for application) | 2× Ethernet RJ45 + 2× RS-232C | CEX-Bus & ModuleBus | CPU redundancy support
- Condition: New Original (New Surplus) / Factory Sealed
- Lifecycle Status: Classic (ABB)
Product Introduction
The ABB PM864AK01 (3BSE018161R1) is a high-performance processor unit for the ABB AC 800M controller family, widely used in 800xA distributed control systems. It houses the PM864A CPU running at 96 MHz with 32 MB of RAM, of which approximately 23.5 MB is available for application code and data.
This unit is sold as a kit that typically includes the PM864A CPU module, TP830 baseplate, CEX-Bus and ModuleBus termination units, RCU-Link terminal, memory backup battery, and power connector. It supports CPU redundancy (1-out-of-2 hot standby) with sub-10 ms failover when paired with a redundant partner and RCU link cables.
Why this matters: the PM864AK01 is a “Classic” lifecycle product from ABB, meaning it is still supported but no longer the newest generation. Plants running legacy AC 800M racks often need like-for-like replacements to avoid re-engineering the Control Builder project. A failed or obsolete CPU can halt an entire process unit, so verified new-surplus stock with proper firmware matching is critical.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | |
| Order Code | 3BSE018161R1 |
| CPU | PM864A, 96 MHz |
| RAM | 32 MB total; ~23.522 MB usable for application |
| Flash | 2 MB (firmware) |
| Ethernet | 2× RJ45, 10 Mbit/s (CN1/CN2) |
| Serial | 2× RS-232C (COM3 with modem signals, COM4 isolated for config tool) |
| Buses | CEX-Bus, ModuleBus (S800 I/O) |
| Redundancy | Supported (requires matching redundant CPU + TK851/TK855/TK856 cables) |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC (19.2–30 V DC) |
| Power Consumption | Typical 6.9 W, max 11.4 W |
| Operating Temperature | +5 to +55 °C |
| Lifecycle Status | Classic (ABB) |
Data sourced from ABB product references and distributor datasheets. Exact firmware revision and kit contents should be confirmed against the installed unit label before ordering.
Key Selling Points & Differentiators
- Exact ABB PM864AK01 replacement. Matches order code 3BSE018161R1 — the classic AC 800M CPU used in thousands of installed 800xA systems.
- Full CPU kit, not bare module. Includes TP830 baseplate, bus terminations, RCU-Link terminal, and backup battery for drop-in installation.
- Redundancy-ready. Supports 1oo2 hot-standby CPU configuration with automatic failover in under 10 ms.
- 32 MB RAM for complex applications. More memory than PM861/PM862, suitable for large control strategies and trend logging.
- New surplus availability. Discontinued/hard-to-source classic product. We stock verified, unused units — not field-pulled modules with unknown runtime hours.
- Not recommended for non-ABB platforms, AC 800F systems, high-integrity SIL-rated applications requiring PM865/PM866, or projects demanding the latest AC 800M High-Performance CPUs.
- 12-month warranty with pre-shipment label verification and firmware revision check.
Quality Transparency SOP
- Label & order code audit. Verify “PM864AK01” and “3BSE018161R1” on the module faceplate. Record firmware revision.
- Visual PCB inspection. Check for burnt components, swollen capacitors, corrosion, or damaged traces around the CPU and memory chips.
- Connector & port check. Verify Ethernet RJ45 ports, COM3/COM4 ports, CEX-Bus, ModuleBus, and RCU-Link connectors are straight and undamaged.
- Baseplate & termination check. Confirm TP830 baseplate, TB850/TB807/TB852 terminations are present and undamaged.
- Battery & accessories. Verify memory backup battery is included and within shelf life.
- ESD packaging. Sealed in anti-static bag, foam-padded box, shipped with a signed inspection report.
Technical Risk Avoidance
- ❗ Confirm order code before ordering. PM864AK01 (3BSE018161R1) is the classic single-CPU kit. PM864AK02 is the redundant pair variant. PM864A-eA is a newer generation with different specs. Do not mix them.
- ❗ Match firmware revision. In redundant systems, primary and backup CPUs must run the same firmware. Provide the existing unit’s firmware version when ordering.
- ❗ Verify kit contents. Ensure the TP830 baseplate, bus terminations, RCU-Link terminal, and backup battery are included. Missing components will delay commissioning.
- ❗ Check redundancy cabling. Redundant CPU pairs require TK851 (data link) and TK855/TK856 (control link) cables. These are not always included in the kit.
- ❗ Do not use for high-integrity SIL applications. PM864A is not rated for high-integrity systems; use PM865/PM866 for those applications.
- ❗ Validate after replacement. Download the application from Control Builder, verify CPU synchronization in redundant mode, and perform I/O forcing tests before returning to full service.
Buyer’s FAQ
Q: What is ABB PM864AK01? A: It is a high-performance processor unit (CPU kit) for the ABB AC 800M controller family, order code 3BSE018161R1, featuring a PM864A CPU at 96 MHz with 32 MB RAM.
Q: What is the difference between PM864AK01 and PM864AK02? A: PM864AK01 is a single CPU kit. PM864AK02 is a redundant CPU pair kit. Both use the PM864A processor.
Q: Is PM864AK01 the same as PM864A-eA? A: No. PM864A-eA (e.g., 3BSE018161R2) is a newer generation with different hardware specifications. They are not directly interchangeable without engineering review.
Q: Can it be used in redundant configuration? A: Yes. PM864AK01 supports CPU redundancy when paired with a matching unit and RCU link cables. Failover occurs in under 10 ms.
Q: Is this new or refurbished? A: New original surplus — factory sealed, never installed. We do not sell field-pulled or refurbished units as “new.”
Q: What should I send before ordering? A: Please provide a clear photo of the existing module label, firmware revision, whether it is used in redundant configuration, and the installed baseplate model.
Q: What’s the lead time and warranty? A: In-stock units ship within 1–2 business days. 12-month warranty from ship date, covering manufacturing defects and DOA failures.
If you can share a photo of the installed PM864AK01 label and firmware revision, I can help confirm compatibility and kit completeness.
