ABB CI868K01 3BSE048845R1 61850 Communication Interface for AC 800M

Product ID: CI868K01

Order Code: 3BSE048845R1

Manufacturer: ABB

Product Type: IEC 61850 Communication Interface Module

Series: AC 800M / System 800xA

Product Overview

The ABB CI868K01 (Order Code: 3BSE048845R1) is a high-performance IEC 61850 Communication Interface Module designed for the ABB AC 800M controller family and System 800xA distributed control systems. This module serves as a dedicated gateway, enabling seamless integration between AC 800M controllers and substation automation devices such as protection relays, intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), and power meters.

Designed specifically for power generation, utility, and industrial grid applications, the CI868K01 bridges the gap between process control and electrical substation environments. It allows a standard AC 800M PLC to communicate natively using the IEC 61850 Edition 1 protocol, supporting both MMS (Manufacturing Message Specification) and GOOSE (Generic Object Oriented Substation Event) messaging .

Key Features & Benefits

IEC 61850 Edition 1 Compliance: Fully supports the global standard for substation automation, ensuring interoperability with IEDs from multiple manufacturers .

Dual Ethernet Redundancy: Features two 100 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet ports to support redundant network topologies (RSTP), ensuring continuous communication even during cable or switch failure .

GOOSE Messaging Support: Enables high-speed (sub-1 ms) peer-to-peer communication between controllers and IEDs for fast logic interlocking and trip commands .

MMS Client/Server: Supports Manufacturing Message Specification for vertical communication between controllers, SCADA systems, and engineering workstations .

CEX-Bus Integration: Plugs directly into the Communication Expansion Bus of AC 800M CPUs (PM851-PM866 series), providing high-speed data exchange with the processor .

Hot Swappable: The module can be replaced without powering down the controller or removing wiring, minimizing downtime .

Technical Specifications

Specification Detail

Model Number CI868K01

Order Number 3BSE048845R1

Module Type Communication Interface (IEC 61850)

Supported Protocol IEC 61850 Edition 1 (MMS Client/Server, GOOSE)

Compatible Controllers ABB AC 800M (PM851, PM856, PM860, PM861, PM864, PM865, PM866, etc.) 

Communication Ports 2 x Ethernet 100BASE-TX (RJ45) 

Bus Connection CEX-Bus

Mounting DIN Rail (via TP867 Baseplate)

Power Supply 24V DC (via CEX-Bus through baseplate)

Dimensions (H x W x D) 186 mm x 59 mm x 127.5 mm (7.32" x 2.32" x 5.02") 

Weight Approx. 0.7 kg (1.54 lbs) 

RoHS Status Following EU Directive 2011/65/EU 

HS Code 85176200 

Made In Sweden / Estonia 

Package Includes

The CI868K01 is sold as a complete package containing :

CI868 Communication Interface Module

TP867 Baseplate

Applications & Use Cases

The CI868K01 is essential for facilities requiring tight integration between process control and electrical power management. Typical applications include:

Substation Automation Systems (SAS): Connecting AC 800M controllers to protection relays, bay controllers, and merging units via IEC 61850.

Power Management Systems (PMS): Enabling load shedding, generator synchronization, and power quality monitoring within industrial plants.

Motor Control Centers (MCC): Integrating intelligent motor starters and variable frequency drives into the System 800xA DCS .

Renewable Energy: Wind farm and solar plant controller communication with grid interconnection devices.

Oil & Gas: Offshore platforms and refineries requiring unified process and electrical control.

Configuration & Engineering

The CI868K01 is configured using ABB Control Builder M or ABB Engineering Studio (part of System 800xA). Configuration steps include :

Importing IED capability descriptions (ICD files) from protection relays.

Mapping IEC 61850 data objects to controller variables.

Configuring GOOSE subscriptions and publish intervals.

Setting up redundant network parameters.

Why Choose the ABB CI868K01?

When modernizing electrical distribution or building new substation automation, choosing the right communication gateway is critical. The CI868K01 provides:

Native Integration: Unlike generic protocol converters, the CI868K01 is natively recognized by AC 800M controllers, simplifying engineering and diagnostics.

Deterministic Performance: Dedicated hardware ensures predictable GOOSE message timing for protection-critical applications.

Proven Reliability: Designed for the harsh electromagnetic environment of switchgear rooms and substations, complying with IEC 61000-4 EMC standards.