Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | HENF105296R0001 (Also references legacy revision HENF105296R1) |
| Model Code | E5LA |
| System Host | ABB ETL Family PLCC Cabinets (ETL-4X, ETL-8X series) |
| Function | Transmitter (Tx) Filtering |
| Supported Frequency Band | 100 kHz to 500 kHz |
| Power Rating | Designed to handle standard 40 W / 80 W Power Amplifier (PA) outputs |
| Mounting Format | Plug-in Eurocard module for ETL chassis rack tiers |
| Associated Modules | B5LA (Power Supply), P4LF (Tx-RF Converter), P1LA (RF Amplifier) |
| Weight | Approximately 1.10 kg |
| Country of Origin | Switzerland / Sweden |
Product Introduction
The ABB E5LA (part number HENF105296R0001) is a high-performance Transmitter (Tx) Filter module deployed within ABB’s legacy ETL-4X and ETL-8X Power Line Carrier Communication (PLCC) systems. PLCC systems utilize high-voltage electrical transmission lines to carry critical teleprotection, SCADA, telemetry, and voice signals across utility grids. Within this architecture, the E5LA module filters the high-frequency transmit carrier wave, ensuring that only clean, in-band radio frequency (RF) signals proceed to the line coupling equipment.
Operating over the 100 kHz to 500 kHz band, the E5LA features steep attenuation characteristics. It eliminates harmonic distortion and spurious intermodulation frequencies generated during signal conversion or amplification (such as from the P1LA RF power amplifier). This filtering prevents interference on neighboring communication channels and keeps the system fully compliant with international utility communication standards (like IEC 60495). Because these modular ETL systems are phased out, verified E5LA spares are critical for grid operators maintaining legacy protective signaling setups.
- E5LA HENF105296R0001
- HENF105296R0001
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High transmit distortion or out-of-band noise alarms on the PLCC terminal | Deteriorated capacitor networks or drift in internal tuning coils | ✅ High | Hook up an RF spectrum analyzer at the output of the transmitter module. Verify if harmonics are attenuated according to commissioning specifications. | The passive inductors or capacitors on the filter board have degraded. Replace the filter module. |
| Low output power or zero RF power at the LMU (Line Matching Unit) | Internal open circuit or blown input trace on the filter card | ✅ High | Measure RF power entering the (from the amplifier) and compare it to the output power exiting the filter. High insertion loss (> 3 dB) indicates a failure. | If the RF power amplifier is healthy but signals drop across the filter, swap out the module. |
| Frequent “Tx Fail” or “PA Overload” alarms on the rack | Impedance mismatch on the line side (e.g., failed tuning on LMU or coaxial cable) | ❌ Low | Test the coaxial cable run between the PLCC rack and the line matching unit (LMU) / coupling capacitor. Measure return loss. | The issue is likely outside the cabinet. Tune the external LMU or replace damaged coaxial cabling. |
| Loss of power to the entire ETL rack frame | Blown power supply module (e.g., B5LA) or input mains failure | ❌ Low | Check the green LED status indicators on the B5LA power supply module or check the primary station DC supply. | The filter card is passive and does not control system power. Troubleshoot and replace the B5LA module. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between the and the E5LB modules?
While both are transmitter filters within the ABB ETL family, they are optimized for different frequency bands. The is designed to filter the 100 kHz to 500 kHz carrier spectrum, which is the most common range for high-voltage power line communications. The E5LB is designed for lower carrier frequencies, typically spanning the 40 kHz to 100 kHz range. They are not directly interchangeable.
Can the be swapped while the PLCC terminal is live?
No, the module should not be hot-swapped. The transmitter filter carries high-frequency RF signals coming from the power amplifier (up to 40 W or 80 W depending on the ETL system setup). Disconnecting the filter card while transmitting can cause impedance mismatches (high VSWR), which may damage the RF Power Amplifier (P1LA) module or cause high-voltage arcing on the backplane connectors. Always switch off the transmitter before extracting the card.
Does the module contain software or firmware?
No, the is an analog, hardware-based RF filter module consisting of high-Q inductors, precision capacitors, and impedance-matching circuitry. It does not contain microprocessor chips, EPROMs, or programmable logical controllers, so it requires no firmware loading or software parameter configurations.
How do you confirm the quality of your legacy surplus filter cards?
Because these telecommunication components are obsolete, we inspect every incoming New Surplus and Refurbished unit. The units are inspected for physical damage, cracked solder points, and component aging (such as capacitor swelling). We run continuity tests on the backplane connectors to ensure signal routing remains clean and fully operational. Each unit is protected under our 1-year replacement warranty.
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