Description
Product Overview
The TropOS 2420 is an industrial broadband wireless mesh router designed for field-area networks in utility, oil and gas, mining, and process-control environments. Originally associated with ABB’s wireless networking portfolio and now listed by Hitachi Energy, the unit combines dual-band wireless networking with wired Ethernet and serial interfaces. Rather than serving only as a conventional wireless access point, the TropOS 2420 acts as a network edge node for connecting field equipment to a managed IP communications infrastructure.
The hardware integrates a managed four-port 10/100BASE-T Ethernet switch, RS-232/RS-485 serial connectivity, GPS, two DC voltage monitoring ports, and two dry-contact monitoring ports. Supported automation protocols include DNP3 and Modbus, with IEC 61850-related capabilities documented for applicable configurations. Its dual-radio architecture supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless operation, with a published maximum wireless data rate of 300 Mbps per band. These features can reduce the need for separate network switches, serial gateways, and monitoring components at remote cabinets. Actual throughput, however, depends on radio conditions, mesh topology, configuration, and network traffic.
For replacement purchases, the important issue is matching the router to the existing TropOS network rather than simply finding a unit with the same model name. Verify the hardware revision, supported radio-frequency region, firmware compatibility, network-management environment, and required serial or Ethernet functions. The published product documentation describes security functions including a firewall, IPsec VPN, and authentication options, but the exact capabilities available in a deployed unit may depend on its software release and configuration. Because this is networking equipment used in control environments, confirm its configuration and test connectivity before connecting it to an operating SCADA network.
Product Introduction
The TropOS 2420 is intended for DIN-rail installation inside suitable industrial enclosures and is particularly relevant where remote controllers, intelligent electronic devices, and other field assets must communicate over a wireless mesh network. Its combination of serial and Ethernet connections makes it useful for installations that include both legacy serial equipment and newer IP-based devices.
During commissioning or replacement, check the antenna arrangement, RF regulatory domain, power supply, IP addressing, VLAN configuration, routing, and network-management settings. Confirm that the selected unit can join the existing mesh and that the required protocols are enabled. For a live utility or process-control installation, validate communications with representative field devices and test the intended security policies before returning the network to service.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer / brand | ABB / Hitachi Energy |
| Product model | TropOS 2420 |
| Product type | Dual-radio broadband wireless mesh router |
| Installation | DIN-rail mounting |
| Wireless standards | IEEE 802.11b/g/n at 2.4 GHz; IEEE 802.11a/n at 5 GHz |
| Wireless data rate | Up to 300 Mbps per radio band, as published |
| Ethernet | Four-port managed 10/100BASE-T switch |
| Serial interfaces | RS-232 / RS-485 |
| Automation protocols | DNP3, Modbus; IEC 61850 capabilities documented |
| GPS | Integrated GPS receiver |
| Voltage monitoring | Two DC voltage monitoring ports |
| Contact monitoring | Two dry-contact monitoring ports |
| Network features | IPv4, IPv6-ready, IEEE 802.1Q VLAN support |
| Security features | Integrated firewall, IPsec VPN, supported authentication and encryption options |
| Management | Local and remote HTTPS management; over-the-air software updates |
| Working voltage | A procurement specification cites 7–32 V DC; verify the exact unit and hardware revision |
| Working temperature | Confirm against the applicable hardware datasheet and installation conditions |
| Protection rating | Not confirmed for this model from the reviewed specification |
| Operating accuracy | Not applicable as a general router accuracy rating |
| Hazardous-area status | Class I, Division 2 certification was listed as pending in the reviewed manufacturer documentation; do not assume certification |
TROPOS 2420
Related Products
- TropOS 2410 — Single-radio DIN-rail wireless router; not a direct substitute where dual-band operation is required.
- TropOS 6420 — Related broadband wireless mesh router in the TropOS family; verify its mounting, environmental rating, and interfaces for the intended installation.
- TropOS 1420 — Outdoor mesh edge node in the same product family; its installation and environmental requirements differ from the 2420.
These products belong to the same broader networking portfolio but should not be treated as interchangeable without checking the network design and hardware requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the TropOS 2420 used for?
It connects industrial field devices and controllers to wireless mesh networks for applications such as SCADA, utility distribution automation, and remote oil and gas operations.
Q2: Does it support both Ethernet and serial devices?
Yes. Published specifications list four managed Ethernet ports and RS-232/RS-485 serial connectivity. Confirm the required serial mode and protocol configuration before deployment.
Q3: Which automation protocols does it support?
The manufacturer lists DNP3 and Modbus support, along with IEC 61850-related capabilities. Confirm the specific protocol functions and firmware available on the unit being supplied.
Q4: What is its power-supply requirement?
A procurement specification lists 7–32 V DC. Verify the actual unit’s label and the applicable hardware documentation before connecting power.
Q5: Can it replace a TropOS 2410?
Not automatically. The 2420 is a dual-radio model, while the 2410 is a single-radio model. A substitution may affect wireless coverage, network topology, and compatibility with the existing installation.
Q6: What should be checked before purchasing a used unit?
Request photographs of the nameplate and connectors, the hardware revision, firmware information if available, and evidence of power-on and communications testing. Also confirm that the required accessories and antennas are included.
Q7: Is it suitable for hazardous locations?
Do not assume so. The manufacturer page reviewed lists Class I, Division 2 certification as pending for the TropOS 2420. Check the applicable certification records and site requirements before installation in a hazardous area.
Procurement Recommendation
The TropOS 2420 is a specialized industrial networking component, not simply a generic wireless router. Before ordering, confirm the required RF region, dual-band operation, supply voltage, serial interfaces, firmware, and management-system compatibility. For a replacement in an operating SCADA network, request a documented functional test and validate mesh joining, wired connectivity, serial communications, and security configuration before deployment.
