Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
Losing a critical HART input card mid-run forces either a process hold or a scramble for a spare. The FBM216 was built to eliminate that risk. Two modules sit side-by-side on a baseplate with a Redundant Adapter; field wiring terminates to a single Termination Assembly. One module runs as Master, the other as Tracker. If the Master fails, the Tracker takes over without interrupting the 4-20 mA values or HART messaging.
Each of the eight channels accepts a standard analog signal or a HART FSK signal superimposed on 4-20 mA. Group isolation protects the loops from module logic and ground. The pair communicates with the FCP over the redundant 2 Mbps Module Fieldbus and supports the same universal and common-practice HART commands as the non-redundant FBM214.
Technical Specifications
Configuration: Two FBM216 modules + Redundant Adapter (one Master, one Tracker)
Channels: 8 group-isolated
Supported Signals: 4-20 mA analog or HART FSK on 4-20 mA
HART Protocol: Version 6, point-to-point, 1200 baud
Message Rate: 2 messages per second
Analog Accuracy (includes nonlinearity): ±0.075% of full scale
Temperature Coefficient: 50 ppm/°C
Resolution: 15 bits
Update Rate: 100 ms
Sense Resistor: 61.9 Ω nominal
Compliance Voltage: 18 V dc minimum at 20.5 mA
Power Requirements: 24 V dc ±5% (redundant), 7 W maximum per module
Operating Temperature: –20 to +70 °C (–4 to +158 °F)
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A mid-continent gas processing plant had two FBM216 pairs covering sixteen critical flow and pressure transmitters on a cryogenic demethanizer. One Master module developed a power-supply fault during a winter storm. The Tracker assumed control within the scan cycle; operators saw only a brief diagnostic alarm and continued running. The failed card was swapped the next day during a planned window. No process values were lost and no HART diagnostic data dropped.
Typical niche applications:
- Redundant HART input for multi-variable transmitters on a high-pressure separator train
- Critical level and interface transmitters on a floating-roof tank farm where single-module failure is unacceptable
- Flow measurement banks on a natural-gas liquids fractionator that require both continuous analog values and periodic HART status without process interruption
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
- Visual inspection of both modules and the Redundant Adapter for mechanical integrity and correct labeling.
- Installation of the pair on a test baseplate with dual 24 V supplies; verification of Master/Tracker hand-off.
- Analog accuracy sweep (4-20 mA) on every channel of both modules against a calibrated source.
- HART communication test (commands 0 and 3) on each channel while forcing a Master-to-Tracker switch.
- Isolation resistance check between the channel group and module logic.
- Extended burn-in under elevated temperature while monitoring continuous Master/Tracker status and analog stability.
FBM216
FBM216
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ You must install the correct Redundant Adapter. The FBM216 will not establish Master/Tracker relationship without it (common part number P0917XQ). Running a single module without the adapter leaves you with a non-redundant card that still occupies two baseplate slots.
PRO TIP: Both modules in the pair must be the same revision and carry matching application software. Mixing an older FBM216 with a newer unit can prevent proper failover or cause intermittent HART communication loss.
⚠️ Group isolation still applies. All eight channels share a common reference inside each module. Mixing internal and external loop power across the group without the proper Termination Assembly wiring can create ground loops that only appear after the redundant pair is online.
Dynamic FAQ
Q: How does the FBM216 achieve redundancy? A: Two modules share one Termination Assembly through a Redundant Adapter. One operates as Master and the other as Tracker. Automatic failover occurs if the Master fails, with no interruption to analog values or HART messaging.
Q: Can I run a single without a partner? A: Technically yes, but it defeats the purpose of the module. The card is designed and certified for paired redundant operation.
Q: What is the difference between and FBM216b? A: is group-isolated. FBM216b provides individual channel isolation and is the preferred choice for new installations requiring higher isolation integrity.
Q: Does the redundant pair support the same HART commands as the non-redundant FBM214? A: Yes. Universal, common-practice, and most device-specific commands are supported at two messages per second per channel.
Q: Are New Surplus units original Foxboro product? A: Yes. Units are original OEM material that have completed full analog accuracy, HART communication, and Master/Tracker failover testing.
Q: What warranty is provided? A: 12-month warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship from the date of shipment for both New Surplus and fully tested refurbished pairs.
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