Description
Product Overview
The Foxboro FCM2F2 RH914YZ is a fiber-optic Fieldbus Communications Module designed for the Foxboro I/A Series 200-Series fieldbus architecture. Its primary role is to extend communication between compatible baseplates so that fieldbus modules (FBMs) can be installed closer to process equipment. Instead of routing long runs of individual signal cables back to a central cabinet, engineers can use an optical link to connect remote I/O locations to the control-system infrastructure. The FCM2F2 supports a nominal maximum baseplate-to-baseplate distance of 2 km (1.24 miles).
In electrically noisy installations, fiber-optic transmission provides an important practical advantage: the optical link does not conduct electrical ground potential differences between connected baseplates. It is also immune to electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference along the fiber path, reducing concerns associated with nearby motors, welding equipment, high-voltage cable routes, and lightning exposure. The FCM2F2 is designed for multimode graded-index glass fiber with a 62.5 µm core and 125 µm cladding, terminated with ST-type connectors. At 1300 nm, the manufacturer specifies a maximum cable attenuation of 1 dB/km. Fiber type, connector quality, total link loss, and the actual route length must all be checked before commissioning.
For Foxboro I/A Series maintenance, the FCM2F2 RH914YZ should be distinguished from the longer-distance FCM2F4 and FCM2F10 models. The FCM2F2 is intended for links up to 2 km; the other models support nominal distances of 4 km and 10 km, respectively, using their specified fiber types. FCMs can be installed in pairs for redundant arrangements or as a single module in nonredundant configurations, depending on the system design. Before replacing a unit, confirm the installed model, baseplate arrangement, fiber type, connector style, and redundancy configuration. A replacement with the correct model number but an unverified condition or unsuitable optical link is not ready for service.
Product Introduction (Non-Templated)
Long copper signal runs in a noisy plant can complicate grounding and increase installation work. The Foxboro FCM2F2 RH914YZ extends compatible 200-Series fieldbus communications over fiber for up to 2 km between baseplates, while isolating the optical link from electrical interference.
For a remote I/O expansion or legacy DCS replacement, confirm the specified multimode fiber, ST connectors, and installed baseplate configuration. The 2 km rating is not interchangeable with the 4 km or 10 km versions.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | |
| Part Number | RH914YZ |
| Manufacturer / Brand | Foxboro |
| Product Series | I/A Series 200-Series fieldbus architecture |
| Product Type | Fiber-optic Fieldbus Communications Module |
| Core Function | Extends communication between compatible fieldbus baseplates |
| Nominal Maximum Link Distance | 2 km (1.24 miles) |
| Fiber Type | Multimode, graded-index glass fiber |
| Fiber Core / Cladding | 62.5 µm / 125 µm |
| Optical Connector | ST-type |
| Specified Optical Wavelength | 1300 nm |
| Maximum Cable Attenuation | 1 dB/km at 1300 nm |
| Maximum Attenuation at 850 nm | 3.6 dB/km, as specified for the documented fiber requirements |
| Redundancy | Supports redundant arrangements using paired modules; confirm the system topology |
| Nonredundant Configuration | Single FCM where supported by the installation |
| Baseplate Capacity | A baseplate can support up to eight FBMs or a combination of FBMs and FCMs |
| Power Requirements | Confirm from the applicable Foxboro hardware documentation |
| Operating Temperature | Confirm from the applicable hardware specification |
| Condition | Verify for the individual unit |
Installation note: Do not select fiber solely by distance. Check the required fiber characteristics, connector termination, optical loss budget, and all intermediate segments against the manufacturer’s specification.
FCM2F2 RH914YZ
Related Products
The following modules and accessories are relevant to the Foxboro I/A Series 200-Series fieldbus architecture. Their functions differ, so verify the application before substituting any component.
- FCM2F4 (RH917JA) — Fiber-optic Fieldbus Communications Module for nominal distances up to 4 km. Intended for links longer than the ‘s specified range; use only with the prescribed fiber type.
- FCM2F10 (RH916TQ) — Fiber-optic communications extender for nominal distances up to 10 km. It uses specified single-mode fiber, unlike the multimode fiber used by .
- FCM10E (P0914YM) — A different Foxboro communications module designation. Verify its function and system requirements before considering it for a similar application.
- FCP270 (RH924YA) — Foxboro field control processor used in compatible I/A Series architectures. It performs controller functions rather than the ‘s optical extension role.
- FBM214 — Analog input fieldbus module used for compatible process measurement applications. It handles field signals rather than extending the optical communication link.
- FBM217 — Fieldbus module for discrete signal applications; select it according to the required I/O function and system configuration.
- FBM218 — Isolated input/output module variant in the 200-Series family; verify its exact channel functions and electrical specifications.
- FBM242 — A separate 200-Series fieldbus module used in compatible I/A Series configurations. Confirm the specific I/O function before selecting it.
- P0916ND — Listed as a Foxboro base-to-base cable accessory. Confirm connector type, length, and the intended baseplate connection before ordering.
- baseplate assembly — The required compatible mounting and connection hardware should be confirmed from the installed I/A Series configuration; the FCM module alone does not establish that all necessary accessories are included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the Foxboro RH914YZ used for?
It extends fieldbus communication between compatible Foxboro 200-Series baseplates over fiber-optic cable. This allows remote fieldbus modules to be located nearer to process equipment and helps reduce long runs of individual signal wiring.
Q2: Can I use for a 4 km or 10 km fiber link?
No—not within its specified nominal distance. Choose the appropriate model based on the engineered link:
- : up to 2 km.
- FCM2F4: up to 4 km.
- FCM2F10: up to 10 km.
The FCM2F10 also uses a different specified fiber type, so changing models requires a review of the optical infrastructure and system design.
Q3: Can I hot-swap this module?
Do not assume that live removal and insertion are permitted in your installation. Check the applicable Foxboro hardware manual and plant maintenance procedure. If the module participates in a redundant link, verify the redundancy state and expected impact on communications before removal.
Q4: Does the support firmware v3.1?
A firmware-v3.1 compatibility claim cannot be established from the model number alone. Confirm the installed I/A Series release, controller and baseplate configuration, and applicable hardware documentation. Do not assume that a firmware level for the control processor applies to this communications extender.
Q5: Can operate in a redundant communication arrangement?
Yes, the manufacturer documents redundant configurations using FCMs mounted in pairs on standard baseplates. The exact number of modules and optical segments depends on the topology. For redundant links between baseplates, confirm the approved design and the maximum permitted segment and total distances.
Q6: How can I verify a new-surplus or refurbished ?
Request photographs of the actual module and its complete RH914YZ marking. Confirm the condition category in writing and ask for inspection or functional-test evidence. For the fiber path, verify the correct multimode cable, ST connectors, and link-loss measurements. A clean appearance or a “new surplus” label does not establish that the module or the installed link will function correctly.
Q7: What warranty should I require for a replacement ?
Obtain written warranty terms covering the period, exclusions, return process, and whether testing or repair is included. For a used or refurbished module, ask whether the unit has been tested in a compatible baseplate arrangement. Warranty coverage does not replace verification of the fiber type, optical budget, redundancy design, and system communication status.
Procurement recommendation: Specify Foxboro and the required unit condition. Before ordering, confirm the baseplate configuration, 2 km link requirement, multimode 62.5/125 µm fiber, ST-type connectors, and whether the installation uses redundant FCM pairs. Do not substitute FCM2F4 or FCM2F10 without checking their fiber requirements and the approved network design.
