The DI880 is a high-performance, high-integrity digital input module within the ABB Ability™ System 800xA® hardware platform. Designed for demanding application scenarios requiring high reliability, safety, and precise event sequencing in industrial automation control systems, it is ideal for critical industrial sectors such as power generation, oil & gas, petrochemicals, rail transportation, and maritime.
The core value of the DI880 lies in its "High Integrity," which is reflected not only in its compliance with high-level functional safety standards like SIL3 (IEC 61508) and Category 4 (EN 954-1) but also in its comprehensive diagnostics, precise Sequence of Events (SOE) recording capability, and flexible redundancy configuration options. The module provides 16 independent 24V DC input channels with current sinking input mode, incorporating advanced onboard diagnostics and channel isolation technology to ensure signal acquisition accuracy and system operational stability, thereby minimizing the risk of system malfunctions or downtime due to input failures.
As an integral part of the System 800xA distributed control system, the DI880 enables seamless integration, providing users with a robust foundation for process state monitoring and control. It is a key component for achieving intelligent and highly reliable plant operations.
2. Key Features & Benefits
1. High-Reliability Input Channels:
Channel Configuration: 16 channels, 24V DC input, current sinking type.
Input Characteristics: Wide input voltage range ("1" signal: 11-30V; "0" signal: -30 to +5V), offering strong noise immunity.
Electrical Isolation: All 16 channels are opto-isolated from ground, effectively suppressing ground loop interference and enhancing electromagnetic immunity.
Input Indication: Each channel features an independent LED status indicator for quick on-site troubleshooting.
2. Advanced Onboard Diagnostics & Self-Test:
The module performs comprehensive cyclic self-diagnostics, with faults categorized and reported as follows:
Module Error: Reports faults in internal power supplies, microcontroller, FPGA, memory, and other core components.
Internal Channel Error: Reports faults affecting specific channels, such as short circuits, open circuits, or stuck-at faults.
External Error: Reports faults in the external power supply.
Intuitive local status indication is provided via front-panel LEDs: F(ault), R(un), W(arning), P(rimary), and individual channel status lights.
3. Sequence of Events (SOE) Recording:
High-Precision SOE: Designed for critical applications requiring precise event order analysis. Event recording resolution is 1 millisecond, with a queue capacity of up to 512 x 16 events.
Accurate Time-Stamping: Event recording accuracy is -0 ms / +1.3 ms, providing reliable data for incident analysis and system optimization.
Intelligent Filtering: Features a "Shutter filter" configurable to suppress unwanted transient event recordings during specific time periods or after a defined number of changes, preventing the queue from being filled with irrelevant data.
4. Flexible Signal Processing:
Programmable Digital Filter: Filter time is selectable from 0 to 127 milliseconds, effectively filtering out short-duration pulse disturbances to ensure only stable, valid signals are recognized by the system.
5. Integrated Sensor Power Supply:
Each input channel provides one current-limited sensor power output (max 32mA, voltage approximately equal to process supply voltage minus 4.2V). This allows direct powering of field two-wire or three-wire sensors, simplifying wiring and enhancing power supply safety.
6. High Safety & Certifications:
Functional Safety: Certified for IEC 61508 SIL 3, suitable for Safety Instrumented Systems.
Mechanical Safety: Certified for EN 954-1 Category 4.
Environmental Compliance: Holds CE, ATEX Zone 2, cULus Class I Div 2, ABS/BV/DNV/LR marine certifications, making it suitable for various industrial and maritime environments.
7. Configuration Flexibility:
Single/Redundant Configuration: Supports operation as a single module or as part of a redundant pair to meet different application availability requirements.
Wide MTU Compatibility: Compatible with various types of Mounting Termination Units (MTUs), including Compact, Extended, and Redundant types, adapting to different cabinet layouts and wiring needs.
3. MTU Compatibility & Wiring
The DI880 module itself does not connect directly to field cables; it must be wired through dedicated Mounting Termination Units (MTUs). This design enhances system modularity, maintainability, and safety.
1. Main Compatible MTU Types:
Compact MTUs: e.g., TU810, TU812 (with D-Sub 25 interface), TU814, TU818 (designed for two-wire sensors). Suitable for space-constrained applications.
Extended MTUs: e.g., TU830, TU833. Typically feature more terminals and integrated power distribution, facilitating connection of three-wire sensors without additional terminals.
Redundant MTUs: e.g., TU842 (horizontal mount), TU843 (vertical mount), TU852. Specifically designed to house two DI880 modules, building redundant input channels.
2. Wiring & Shielding Recommendations:
To ensure signal integrity and meet EMC requirements, shielded cables must be used for process connections. An overall shield is usually sufficient if a multi-core cable contains sorted signal types.
It is strongly recommended that all sensors connected to the DI880 be powered by the current-limited sensor supplies provided by the DI880 module itself to fully utilize its built-in protection features. For this purpose, the use of MTUs like TU830, TU833, TU842, TU843, or TU852 is recommended. If single Compact MTUs are used, external power configuration must follow the Technical Description 3BSE050455.
4. Typical Application Areas
Thanks to its high integrity, reliability, and powerful diagnostics, the DI880 is suited for industrial sectors with stringent safety and availability requirements:
Power Industry: Status monitoring of digital signals, protection signal acquisition, and SOE for incident analysis in power plants (thermal, hydro, nuclear).
Oil, Gas & Petrochemicals: Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), Emergency Shutdown Systems (ESD), status monitoring of critical valves and pumps in upstream production, refineries, and chemical plants.
Rail Transportation: Railway signaling systems, metro environmental monitoring, and equipment control.
Marine & Shipbuilding: Ship propulsion control systems, engine room automation, and alarm systems.
Critical Infrastructure: Monitoring and control in water treatment plants, data centers, pharmaceutical facilities, and other sites requiring uninterrupted supervision.
Large-Scale Process Industries: Distributed Control Systems in paper, metals, cement, and other process manufacturing sectors.
