Emerson 396563-06-6 Control Wave Micro CPU Module

Description

Product Introduction & Engineering Value

A ControlWave Micro installation can continue running for years, but a failed CPU module can stop the entire control sequence. The Emerson 396563-06-6 is the Ethernet-equipped CPU module for the ControlWave Micro platform, providing the processor, memory, real-time functions, and communications interfaces required by the controller.

Published technical references identify a 150 MHz 32-bit ARM9 processor, 4 MB SRAM, 16 MB onboard Flash, Ethernet, two RS-232 ports, and RS-485 communications. The module is particularly relevant when maintaining legacy remote-control and telemetry installations.

Technical Specifications

The 150 MHz processor, 4 MB SRAM, 16 MB Flash, 3.3 VDC supply, and approximately 240 mA consumption are consistently reported in available technical and inventory references.

One useful distinction: Emerson’s certification documentation identifies 396563-06-6 specifically as the Ethernet version of the ControlWave Micro CPU. It also lists a separate 400058-series schematic/BOM and 721688-03-9 CPU module assembly associated with this model.

Field Application & the “Trench” Experience

Consider a remote pumping station where a ControlWave Micro controller has been operating for years. The I/O modules and field instruments remain serviceable, but the controller CPU fails to boot. Replacing the entire RTU would mean rebuilding the application, communications configuration, and commissioning procedure.

A correctly matched 396563-06-6 allows the maintenance team to concentrate on the CPU replacement rather than redesigning the entire control architecture. The important checks come before power-up: confirm the exact CPU variant, preserve the existing application/configuration where applicable, verify Ethernet and serial connections, and confirm the controller’s field I/O configuration.

Typical applications include:

1. Remote pump-station control — local sequencing with supervisory communications back to a central SCADA system.
2. Pipeline RTU installations — remote monitoring and control where Ethernet and serial communications coexist.
3. Water and wastewater telemetry — legacy ControlWave Micro controllers handling local process logic and remote data acquisition.
4. Natural-gas measurement and control — remote controller installations requiring local processing and communications.

These are representative ControlWave Micro applications rather than claims about a particular customer’s installation.

396563-06-6

396563-06-6

Transparency SOP: QA & Testing

For a 396563-06-6 offered as New Surplus or Refurbished, the condition should be verified independently of the part-number match.

Recommended QA sequence:

• Part identification: Confirm 396563-06-6 and inspect the Emerson/Bristol markings.
• PCB inspection: Check connectors, board surfaces, components, mounting points, and signs of oxidation or physical damage.
• Power test: Verify that the module accepts the specified 3.3 VDC supply without abnormal current draw.
• CPU/boot test: Confirm processor startup and controller initialization in an appropriate ControlWave Micro test environment.
• Memory test: Verify available SRAM/Flash operation where the test setup permits.
• Communications test: Check Ethernet and the applicable RS-232/RS-485 interfaces.
• Documentation: Record condition, board revision, serial information, test results, and warranty terms.

This matters because 396563-06-6 is listed as discontinued by the manufacturer in current secondary-market references. Replacement stock therefore needs tighter incoming inspection than a normal current-production PLC component.

The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide

⚠️ Trap #1 — Confusing the CPU with other ControlWave Micro modules

The ControlWave Micro family contains multiple CPU and I/O assemblies. Emerson’s own certification documentation distinguishes the Ethernet-equipped 396563-06-6 from other CPU models. Match the complete number, not simply “ControlWave Micro CPU.”

⚠️ Trap #2 — Replacing the hardware without protecting the application

A CPU replacement is not automatically a configuration transfer. Before removing a failed controller, determine where the application program, configuration, communication parameters, and retained data are stored. If the original CPU is still accessible, back up what can be recovered before making the swap.

PRO TIP: Photograph the communication wiring and record the existing controller configuration before disconnecting the module. Legacy RTU installations frequently contain site-specific serial settings that are not obvious from the physical wiring.

⚠️ Trap #3 — Assuming every listing has the same memory specification

Some reseller pages describe the memory differently. The more consistent references identify 4 MB SRAM, 16 MB Flash, and 4 MB SDRAM for program execution. For procurement, use the OEM documentation and the actual board revision as the controlling reference rather than copying a marketplace specification without verification.

Dynamic FAQ

What is Emerson 396563-06-6?

396563-06-6 is an Ethernet-equipped CPU module for the Bristol/Emerson ControlWave Micro controller family. It provides the processor, memory, real-time clock, security function, and serial/Ethernet communications required by the controller.

What processor does the module use?

Available technical references identify a 32-bit ARM9 processor running at 150 MHz.

What communication ports are available?

The published specifications identify Ethernet, two RS-232 interfaces, and RS-485. The exact port usage should be checked against the ControlWave Micro configuration and application documentation.

Is 396563-06-6 discontinued?

Yes. Current secondary-market references identify the part as discontinued by the manufacturer. It remains available through aftermarket and industrial-spares channels, but actual stock and condition vary by supplier.

Can I buy it as New Surplus?

Listings currently show multiple condition categories, including new/unused and refurbished units. However, “New Surplus” should be confirmed directly with the supplier because unused aftermarket inventory does not automatically carry the original Emerson factory warranty.

What warranty should I expect?

Warranty terms are seller-specific, not an inherent property of the part number. For example, current aftermarket listings advertise their own 1-year or 2-year warranties while explicitly noting that the original factory warranty may not apply. Confirm the warranty, test scope, and return conditions on the specific quotation before purchasing.