Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | TB840A 3BSE037760R1 |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product category | Module bus cluster modem |
| Power supply | 24 V DC |
| Power consumption | Typ. 120 mA at 24 V DC |
| Communication interfaces | 2 fiber optic ports to optical module bus, electrical module bus for I/O modules |
| Max. electrical I/O modules | 12 |
| Max. fiber optic clusters | 7 |
| Operating temperature | 0 °C to +55 °C (storage: -25 °C to +70 °C) |
| Relative humidity | 5% to 95% non – condensing |
| Pollution degree | Degree 2 (IEC 60664 – 1) |
| Corrosion protection | ISA – S71.04: G3 |
| Protection class | IP20 (EN 60529, IEC 529) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | Approx. 11.9 cm x 5.4 cm x 9.6 cm |
| Weight | 0.2 kg |
| Warranty | 12 months |
ABB TB840A 3BSE037760R1
Product introduction
The TB840A 3BSE037760R1 is a specialized module bus cluster modem from ABB, designed to play a crucial role in the communication infrastructure of industrial automation systems, particularly within the context of the S800 I/O system. This modem serves as a bridge between different segments of the network, enabling seamless data transfer between electrical and optical module buses.
In industrial settings where a large number of I/O modules need to be connected and managed, the TB840A becomes an essential component. It is often deployed in scenarios where redundancy is critical, such as in power plants, oil refineries, and large – scale manufacturing facilities. In these applications, each module can be connected to different optical module bus lines while being linked to the same electrical module bus, ensuring continuous operation even in the event of a partial network failure.
Core advantages and technical highlights
Dual – interface communication capabilities
With 2 fiber optic ports for the optical module bus and an electrical interface for I/O modules, the TB840A can handle both high – speed, long – distance data transmission over fiber optics and the connection to local I/O devices. For example, in a large factory with multiple production lines spread across a vast area, the fiber optic interface can be used to connect I/O clusters located far from the central control room, while the electrical interface links to the immediate I/O modules on each production line. This dual – interface design allows for efficient distribution of I/O signals and data across the entire facility.
Redundancy support for high – availability systems
The TB840A is well – suited for redundancy configurations. In critical industrial processes, such as in the control of a chemical reactor where continuous operation is vital, the ability to connect modules to different optical module bus lines provides an extra layer of protection. If one optical link fails, the system can automatically switch to the other, ensuring that the control system remains operational and there is no interruption in the monitoring and control of the process.
Scalability in I/O module connections
It can support up to 12 I/O modules on the electrical module bus and up to seven clusters on the fiber optic module bus. This scalability makes it adaptable to various system sizes. In a growing manufacturing plant, as new production equipment is added, more I/O modules can be connected to the electrical bus, and additional fiber optic clusters can be incorporated to expand the reach of the I/O system. This scalability ensures that the TB840A can grow with the evolving needs of the automation infrastructure.
Supervisory functions
The modem has built – in supervisory functions for the I/O module bus and power supply. It continuously monitors the health of the connected I/O modules and the power supply status. In a data center cooling system, for instance, the TB840A can detect if an I/O module controlling a cooling fan has malfunctioned or if there are any power supply issues. This real – time monitoring helps in early detection of problems, allowing for proactive maintenance and minimizing system downtime.
Key differences from related models (e.g., compared to a non – redundant module bus modem)
| Feature | Non – redundant module bus modem | TB840A |
| Redundancy support | None | Supports 1 + 1 redundancy with each module connected to different optical module bus lines |
| Number of fiber optic ports | Usually 1 or none | 2 fiber optic ports for increased flexibility in optical network design |
| Supervisory functions | Limited or none | Monitors I/O module bus and power supply for enhanced system management |
| Application focus | Smaller, less – critical systems | Larger, high – availability industrial systems where redundancy is crucial |
ABB TB840A 3BSE037760R1
Typical application scenarios
Large – scale manufacturing plants
In an automotive assembly plant, the TB840A can be used to manage the communication between hundreds of I/O modules. These modules control various aspects of the assembly line, such as robotic arms, conveyor belts, and quality control sensors. The fiber optic interface allows for long – distance communication between different sections of the plant, while the electrical interface connects to the local I/O modules on each workstation. The redundancy feature ensures that production can continue even if there is a problem with one of the communication links.
Power generation facilities
In a power plant, the TB840A plays a vital role in monitoring and controlling the numerous sensors and actuators involved in the power generation process. It connects to I/O modules that measure parameters like temperature, pressure, and voltage in the boilers, turbines, and generators. The fiber optic connections can span long distances within the plant, from the control room to remote areas where equipment is located. The modem’s redundancy capabilities are essential to prevent any disruption in the power generation process, which could have significant consequences for the grid.
Industrial water treatment plants
Water treatment plants often have a large number of I/O devices, including pumps, valves, and sensors for water quality monitoring. The TB840A can be used to integrate these devices into a unified control system. The fiber optic interface can be used to connect I/O clusters located at different treatment stages, such as the intake, filtration, and disinfection areas. The electrical interface links to the local I/O modules that directly control the pumps and valves. The modem’s ability to support redundancy ensures continuous operation of the water treatment process, which is critical for supplying clean water.
Related model recommendations
ABB TU840
This is a module that can be used in redundant TB840/TB840A setups with a dual module bus. It works in tandem with the TB840A to provide enhanced redundancy and communication management in complex industrial networks.
ABB TU841
Similar to the TU840, but designed for redundant TB840/TB840A setups with a single module bus. It is a cost – effective option for applications where a single – bus redundancy configuration is sufficient.
ABB S800 I/O modules
These are the I/O modules that can be connected to the TB840A’s electrical interface. Depending on the specific application requirements, different types of S800 I/O modules, such as digital input/output modules or analog input/output modules, can be paired with the TB840A to build a comprehensive I/O system.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation: Mount the TB840A in an enclosure that meets the IP20 protection requirements. Ensure that the enclosure provides sufficient ventilation as the operating temperature range is 0 °C to +55 °C. Connect the 24 V DC power supply using appropriate cables, taking care to observe the correct polarity. For the fiber optic connections, use high – quality fiber optic cables and ensure proper alignment and connection of the connectors to the 2 fiber optic ports. Connect the electrical module bus to the I/O modules using suitable electrical cables, following the wiring diagrams provided in the product documentation.
Commissioning: After installation, power up the TB840A and check the status indicators. Use appropriate software tools provided by ABB to configure the communication settings, such as the baud rate, parity, and data bits for the electrical and fiber optic interfaces. Test the communication by sending and receiving data between the I/O modules and the connected devices. Verify the redundancy functionality by simulating a failure in one of the optical links and ensuring that the system switches over to the redundant link without data loss.
Maintenance: Regularly inspect the TB840A for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks in the enclosure or loose connections. Check the temperature of the device during operation to ensure it remains within the specified range. Monitor the communication performance using diagnostic tools to detect any issues with data transfer rates or packet loss. If a problem is detected, follow the troubleshooting guide provided in the product documentation. In case of a hardware failure, replace the TB840A with a new one, ensuring that the new device is properly configured with the same communication settings as the original.
Service and guarantee commitment
The TB840A 3BSE037760R1 comes with a 12 – month warranty from ABB. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects that may occur during normal use. ABB’s technical support team is available to provide assistance in case of any issues with the product. They can offer advice on installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting. In addition, ABB may provide software updates or patches to improve the performance and functionality of the TB840A over time. The company is committed to ensuring that its customers receive reliable and long – lasting products, and the TB840A is backed by ABB’s reputation for quality in the industrial automation market.
