Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Model | NDBU-95 |
| Order Number | 63985341 |
| Product Type | DDCS Branching Unit |
| Communication System | ABB DDCS (Distributed Drives Communication System) |
| Main Function | Optical communication signal distribution |
| Topology | Star connection |
| Master Interface | 1 × DDCS input / 1 × DDCS output |
| Drive Interfaces | 9 × DDCS input / 9 × DDCS output channels |
| Transmission Medium | Fiber optic |
| Data Rate | 1–4 Mbit/s (configuration dependent) |
| Optical Components | 10 Mb components |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC ±10% |
| Power Consumption | Approx. 300 mA |
| Mounting | DIN rail mounting |
| Dimensions | Approx. 94 × 264 × 41 mm |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +50°C |
| Indicators | TXD/RXD channel LEDs, +5V OK LED |
Product Introduction
ABB NDBU-95 63985341 Overview
The ABB NDBU-95 63985341 is a DDCS optical branching unit used in ABB drive communication systems. It creates a star communication structure by receiving data from a master controller and distributing the optical signals to multiple ABB drives. This architecture allows individual drive connections while maintaining centralized communication management.
The ABB NDBU-95 63985341 is commonly found in legacy ABB ACS600, DCS800, and related drive installations where fiber optic DDCS communication remains in service. Before replacement, verify optical component type, communication speed settings, address configuration, and connected drive compatibility.

NDBU-95 63985341
Application Scenarios & Field Pitfalls (The Engineer’s Perspective)
Engineering Pain Point
A drive system can lose communication even when every power component is healthy. A damaged fiber link, failed branching unit, or incorrect DDCS configuration can isolate multiple converters from the control system. The NDBU-95 is a small communication component, but it sits directly in the path between the controller and drive network.
In large production plants, this type of failure often appears as multiple drive faults at the same time. The root cause may be a single communication node.
Typical Applications
- Mining Operations – ABB drive networks controlling conveyors, crushers, and grinding equipment.
- Metallurgical Plants – High-power DC and AC drive systems for production machinery.
- Power Generation Facilities – Auxiliary drive systems including pumps and fans.
- Marine and Industrial Systems – Multi-drive communication networks requiring fiber optic isolation.
Technical Pitfalls to Avoid
- Fiber Optic Component Matching
ABB DDCS systems use different optical components depending on the drive generation and communication speed. Do not mix incompatible optical interfaces. Verify the existing hardware before replacement.
- Address Configuration Errors
The NDBU-95 uses address settings to establish communication hierarchy. Incorrect DIP switch settings can prevent connected drives from communicating correctly.
- Communication Speed Settings
Confirm the MBIT/S configuration before installation. A mismatch between the branching unit and connected devices can create intermittent communication faults.
Field note: Before removing an , record all fiber connections, channel numbers, DIP switch positions, LED conditions, and connected drive addresses. Fiber communication faults are much easier to diagnose when the original layout is documented.
Related Products
- ABB NDBU-85
Similar DDCS branching unit with fewer communication channels. Used for smaller ABB drive networks. - ABB NDBU-95C
Updated variant with similar 9-channel DDCS branching functionality. Used in newer replacement applications where specified. - ABB DSU/INU Drive Communication Interfaces
Related ABB drive communication hardware used within ACS and DCS drive architectures. - ABB NDPC-02
DDCS communication interface board used for PC-based communication with ABB drive systems. - ABB NDPC-12
Higher-speed DDCS PC interface option used with ABB drive communication networks. - ABB ACS600 Drive Series
One of the primary drive platforms where communication branching units were applied. - ABB DCS800 Drive Series
DC drive platform using DDCS communication architecture and compatible branching components. - ABB ACS800 Drive Series
Industrial drive family using ABB fiber optic communication interfaces depending on configuration. - ABB CI858K01 3BSE018135R1
ABB AC800M communication interface module supporting DriveBus/DDCS-related integration in automation systems. - ABB DDCS Communication Network Components
Includes optical cables, adapters, interface boards, and branching units used for ABB drive communication systems.
