Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
Running high-current discrete loads through a module’s internal power supply quickly becomes a thermal and reliability problem. The FBM242 RH916YY solves that by switching an external power source to the field devices. Sixteen independently isolated output channels handle up to 2 A continuous at 60 V DC.
Associated Termination Assemblies allow either solid-state switching or relay outputs for 120 V AC/125 V DC and 240 V AC applications. The module executes the Discrete Output or Ladder Logic application program and supports configurable fail-safe states. It mounts on a standard 200 Series baseplate and communicates with the FCP over the 2 Mbps Module Fieldbus. The design is rated for Class G3 harsh environments.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Channels | 16, channel-isolated |
| Applied Voltage (solid-state) | 15 to 60 V DC maximum |
| Continuous Load Current | 2.25 A maximum per channel |
| In-Rush Current | 8 A (20 ms) at 30 °C; 6.4 A (20 ms) at 70 °C |
| On-State Voltage Drop | 0.2 V maximum at 2.25 A |
| Off-State Leakage | 0.1 mA maximum |
| TA Options | Solid-state 60 V DC or relay outputs (120 V AC / 125 V DC / 240 V AC) |
| Application Programs | Discrete Output or Ladder Logic |
| Fail-Safe | Configurable |
| Module Power Supply | 24 V DC +5% / –10% (redundant) |
| Module Power Consumption | 3 W maximum |
| Operating Temperature | –20 to +70 °C (–4 to +158 °F) |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A Midwest specialty chemical plant needed sixteen isolated, high-current discrete outputs to drive large solenoid valves and interlock relays on a continuous reactor system. Existing cards shared load current through the module supply and lacked full channel isolation. An FBM242 RH916YY was installed with a matching Termination Assembly. External 24 V DC and 120 V AC supplies were connected through the TA. After fail-safe configuration, all sixteen points operated cleanly with no shared current through the module power rails and no cross-channel interference.
Typical niche applications:
- High-current discrete switching of solenoid valves and safety interlocks on continuous or batch reactor trains
- Isolated outputs to motor starter coils and contactor circuits in large MCC lineups
- Relay-isolated 120 V AC or 240 V AC switching for legacy equipment that cannot accept low-voltage solid-state signals

FBM242 RH916YY

FBM242 RH916YY
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
- Visual inspection of housing, connectors, and original RH916YY labeling
- Power-up on dual 24 V supplies with Module Fieldbus communication verification
- Channel-by-channel switching test under rated continuous load current
- Measurement of on-state voltage drop, off-state leakage, and isolation resistance
- Fail-safe configuration verification
- Extended temperature soak while cycling all outputs and monitoring stability
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ External field power is required. The FBM242 does not source the load current. Without a correctly wired external supply through the Termination Assembly, the outputs will remain de-energized even though the module is powered and communicating.
PRO TIP: Confirm the Termination Assembly matches the field voltage before installation. Solid-state TAs are limited to 60 V DC. Relay-style TAs are required for 120 V AC or 240 V AC loads. Using the wrong TA is a common cause of non-functional or damaged outputs.
⚠️ Respect in-rush limits. Continuous rating is 2.25 A, but short-duration in-rush capability is temperature-dependent. Large contactors or solenoids can exceed the momentary rating and stress the output stage if not properly managed.
Dynamic FAQ
Q: Does the FBM242 RH916YY supply power to the field devices? A: No. It switches an externally supplied voltage to the loads. An external power source must be provided and correctly connected through the Termination Assembly.
Q: What is the maximum continuous current per channel? A: 2.25 A maximum per channel.
Q: Can this module drive 120 V AC or 240 V AC loads? A: Yes, when paired with the appropriate relay-style Termination Assembly.
Q: Is fail-safe behavior configurable? A: Yes. The Discrete Output application program supports configurable fail-safe states for the outputs.
Q: Are New Surplus FBM242 RH916YY units original Foxboro product? A: Yes. Units are original OEM material that have completed full switching, isolation, current, and functional testing.
Q: What warranty applies? A: 12-month warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of shipment for both New Surplus and fully tested refurbished units.




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