Foxboro FCP280
Foxboro FCP280 - Image 2

Foxboro FCP280

Product Introduction: The FCP280 is a high-performance, fault-tolerant, field-mountable controller used in the Foxboro Evo process automation system. It requires Foxboro Evo Control Core Services v9.0 or higher. The FCP280 executes regulatory, logic, timing, and sequential control and performs data acquisition, alarm detection, and notification. It supports up to 128 compact or standard 200-series FBM (or combinations with 100-series FBM) without needing separate fieldbus communication modules. It features a patented fault-tolerant architecture with two processor modules, supports self-hosted startup, and provides On-Line Image Upgrade (OLUG) and Enhanced OLUG for non-disruptive upgrades. The unit connects via standard 100 Mbps fiber or copper Ethernet to the MESH control network and is rated for G3-class environments.

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Category: SKU: Foxboro FCP280

Description

Foxboro FCP280 Technical Specifications:

  • Processor: Dual 64-bit PowerPC (configuration may vary; some sources note 400 MHz options)
  • Memory: Up to 256 MB to 512 MB SDRAM; flash memory or hard drive for program and data storage (varies by configuration)
  • I/O Capacity: Up to 256 analog I/O points; up to 256 digital I/O points (system-dependent)
  • Network: Dual 100 Mbps Ethernet connections (fiber or copper) to the MESH control network
  • Fieldbus: Onboard ports support 2 Mbps or 268 Kbps HDLC fieldbus per baseboard port; no separate FCM required
  • Environment: Operating temperature -20 °C to +70 °C; storage -40 °C to +85 °C
  • Dimensions: Approximately 220 mm × 160 mm × 90 mm
  • Weight: Approximately 3 kg
  • Redundancy: Fault-tolerant pair of processor modules with automatic switchover; bit-level output comparison before transmission
  • Certifications: Rated for G3-class (harsh) environments; CE certified for field installation

Functional Features:

  • Supports self-hosted mode: the controller can boot and run the control database without the host workstation
  • On-Line Image Upgrade (OLUG) and Enhanced OLUG allow non-disruptive firmware and application upgrades in fault-tolerant configurations
  • LCD display and soft keypad for local status and configuration (varies by version)
  • CP over-load protection notifies operators when controller performance reaches limits
  • Supports GPS time synchronization for system-wide alignment

Application Scenarios:

  • Large process units requiring high I/O counts and distributed control
  • Critical process control with demands for high availability and non-disruptive upgrades
  • Plants integrating Foxboro Evo system with existing I/A Series I/O
  • Applications requiring remote installation close to the process

Performance Parameters:

  • High processing capability with 64-bit PowerPC CPUs for complex control strategies
  • Low-latency communication over 100 Mbps Ethernet to the MESH network
  • Scalable to hundreds of I/O points with modular FBM and FEM expansion

Material and Structural Characteristics:

  • Rugged aluminum enclosure designed for G3 environments and unventilated cabinets
  • Front panel with status indicators and local interface elements (LCD, keys) for maintenance
  • Baseboard accommodates dual processor modules and redundant fieldbus connections

Working Principle: Two processor modules run in parallel, each receiving and processing the same inputs and control logic. They compare outputs at a bit level before sending commands to the fieldbus; matched outputs are transmitted, and mismatches trigger diagnostics and switchover. The controller exchanges data with the MESH control network over redundant Ethernet links and communicates with FBM I/O via onboard HDLC fieldbus ports. Installation Requirements:

  • Install the FCP280 baseboard in a suitable control cabinet with adequate clearance and cooling
  • Connect redundant 100 Mbps Ethernet links to the MESH control network (fiber or copper adapters)
  • Terminate fieldbus cables to FBM baseboards according to Foxboro wiring standards
  • Configure the control database, redundancy settings, and network parameters using Foxboro Evo engineering tools
  • Ensure proper grounding and bonding for industrial equipment

Usage Notes:

  • Use only supported versions of Foxboro Evo Control Core Services
  • For fault-tolerant configurations, ensure both processor modules are identical and properly seated
  • Schedule OLUG/Enhanced OLUG during planned maintenance windows to minimize risk
  • Monitor CP overload indicators; adjust control strategy or redistribute load if needed

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