Description
Foxboro FBM242 RH916YY Technical Specifications:
- Channels: 16 isolated digital outputs
- Output Ratings (typical): 60 V DC at up to 2 A per channel (high-side switch); TA variants support relay outputs at 120 V AC/125 V DC or 240 V AC with power distribution and fusing
- Isolation: Each channel fully isolated from other channels and ground
- Communication: Redundant 2 Mbps module fieldbus; supports communication over two paths (A and B) for redundancy
- Environment: Operating temperature 0 °C to 60 °C; storage –40 °C to +70 °C; humidity 5%–95% non-condensing
- Protection: G3-class (harsh) environment rating; IP20 when mounted in an enclosure
- Indicators: LEDs on the front panel show module operating status and per-channel output state
- Mounting: Modular DIN-rail or rack-mount baseboard (supports up to 4 or 8 FBMs per baseboard)
- Mechanical: Compact, robust extruded aluminum enclosure for circuit protection
Functional Features:
- Per-channel isolation eliminates ground loops and cross-talk
- Supports field power current limiting and overcurrent protection on outputs
- Redundant fieldbus communication with automatic switchover between paths
- Provides fault-safe configuration options (e.g., de-energize to safe state on failure)
- Configurable via the DCS for output behavior and diagnostics
Application Scenarios:
- Discrete control of actuators, solenoid valves, motor starters, and alarm indicators
- Emergency shutdown (ESD) and safety permissive outputs in process plants
- High-density digital output requirements in control panels and marshalling cabinets
Performance Parameters:
- Fast switching response for timely actuator control
- Current-limiting and fused outputs for protection against short circuits
- High isolation voltage withstands surges and transients
Material and Structural Characteristics:
- Extruded aluminum housing for physical protection and heat dissipation
- Industrial-grade PCB with protection components and isolation barriers
- Pluggable connectors to baseboard/TA for easy module replacement (hot-swap supported)
- LED indicators for per-channel status (On/Off and fault)
Working Principle: The module receives digital commands from the control processor via the redundant 2 Mbps module fieldbus. Each output channel switches the field power line to drive the load, using solid-state or relay contacts (depending on TA configuration). Isolation barriers protect the control side from field voltage transients. The module continuously monitors output currents and reports faults via diagnostics and LEDs. Installation Requirements:
- Mount the FBM242 into a compatible baseboard that supports 200 Series FBM modules
- Connect field wiring to the associated Terminal Assembly (RH916YY) for each output channel
- Ensure proper power supply voltage and current ratings for the load mix
- Configure output behavior and safety states via Foxboro I/A Series engineering tools
Usage Notes:
- Do not exceed per-channel current and voltage ratings; consider inrush currents for inductive loads
- Use appropriate overcurrent protection and suppression diodes for inductive loads
- Verify correct wiring of normally-open/normally-closed configurations if using relay TAs
- Perform periodic output checks and verify LED status matches expected field device states





