The ABB CI873K01 (3BSE056899R1) is a high-performance EtherNet/IP Communication Interface Module designed for the ABB AC 800M controller family and System 800xA distributed control system (DCS). This module functions as a critical bridge within the 800xA architecture, enabling seamless data exchange between AC 800M controllers and a wide range of industrial devices including motor drives, remote I/O systems, smart sensors, and third-party equipment via the EtherNet/IP protocol .
The CI873K01 is supplied as a complete hardware kit consisting of the CI873 communication module and the TP867 baseplate, which provides two RJ45 Ethernet connectors for network connectivity . This modular, scalable solution is essential for modern industrial automation environments requiring deterministic data exchange and high-availability networking .
Key Features & SEO Keywords
EtherNet/IP Protocol Support: Functions as both Scanner (Master) and Adapter (Slave) roles on EtherNet/IP networks
Module Redundancy Support: Allows configuration of primary and backup interfaces to prevent communication loss in critical control loops
Hot Swap Capability: Fully supports online replacement without powering down the baseplate, significantly reducing Mean Time to Repair (MTTR)
CEX-Bus Integration: Connects directly to AC 800M controllers via the high-speed CEX-Bus backplane
Deterministic Communication: Specifically tuned for System 800xA, prioritizing real-time process data over non-critical network traffic
Industrial Hardening: Designed to withstand high electromagnetic interference (EMI) in motor control centers and power generation facilities
Technical Specifications
Based on ABB official datasheets and technical documentation.
Parameter Specification
Order Number 3BSE056899R1
Product Type EtherNet/IP Communication Interface Module
Kit Contents CI873 Module + TP867 Baseplate
System Compatibility ABB AC 800M Controllers, System 800xA, S800 I/O
Communication Protocols EtherNet/IP (Primary), DeviceNet
Operation Mode Scanner (Master) or Adapter (Slave)
Transmission Speed 10/100 Mbit/s (auto-negotiating)
Connector Type 2 x RJ-45 female (on TP867 baseplate)
Redundancy Support Yes (Module Redundancy)
Hot Swap Capability Yes
Current Consumption Typ. 160 mA at 24 V DC
Power Supply Supplied via CEX-Bus backplane
Dimensions (H x W x D) 185 mm x 20 mm x 127.5 mm (module only)
Weight (including base) Approx. 0.525 kg (1.16 lbs)
Operating Temperature +5°C to +55°C (+41°F to +131°F)
Storage Temperature -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F)
Relative Humidity 5% to 95%, non-condensing
Protection Rating IP20
Certifications CE-marking, UL 61010-1, UL 61010-2-201, UL 60079-15 (cULus Class 1, Zone 2), DNV-GL (Marine), RoHS, WEEE
Product Applications
The ABB CI873K01 is essential for industrial environments requiring robust, flexible networking for control, monitoring, and data exchange :
Process Control Systems: Oil & gas, petrochemicals, power generation, and chemical processing — connects AC 800M controllers to plant-wide EtherNet/IP networks, enabling real-time data exchange between controllers, intelligent field devices, and SCADA/MES systems
Factory Automation: Automotive production, assembly lines, and general manufacturing — enables communication with robotic cells, machine vision systems, and conveyor controls for synchronized operations
Distributed Control Systems (DCS): As an integral part of System 800xA, supports distributed control architectures across different plant areas
Remote I/O and Device Integration: Acts as a gateway for integrating remote I/O devices or third-party equipment into the ABB control system