Product Overview

The ABB AFS670 AFS Managed Ethernet Switch is a managed industrial Ethernet switch used to connect automation, protection, control, monitoring, and supervisory equipment within an industrial communication network. It is part of the ABB AFS family and can be used where Ethernet communication needs to be organized and monitored through a managed network infrastructure.

The switch is suitable for applications in which multiple intelligent devices need to exchange information over a common Ethernet network. Typical connected equipment includes protection relays, automation controllers, SCADA systems, HMIs, engineering workstations, and other Ethernet-based industrial devices.

In a substation automation system, the AFS670 can aggregate Ethernet connections from protection and control equipment and connect them with station-level communication networks. In an industrial plant, it can be used between PLC-based control systems, supervisory computers, operator stations, and other networked equipment.

For replacement work, technicians should verify the complete AFS670 configuration, communication interfaces, network topology, power arrangement, and existing management settings before removing an installed switch.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

• ABB AFS series Managed Ethernet Switch
• Model AFS670
• Industrial Ethernet communication for automation and utility systems
• Supports network connections between controllers and intelligent devices
• Suitable for protection and control communication
• Managed network functionality for industrial Ethernet architectures
• Suitable for centralized communication cabinet installations
• Applicable to substation and power automation networks
• Supports communication between controller-level and supervisory equipment
• Suitable for industrial network expansion and replacement projects

Working Principle

The AFS670 handles Ethernet communication between connected industrial devices and forwards network traffic through the appropriate communication path.

Automation Device → AFS670 → Industrial Ethernet Network → Destination Device

Connected controllers, protection devices, HMIs, SCADA computers, and engineering stations exchange Ethernet data through the switch. The AFS670 examines incoming Ethernet frames and forwards them toward the corresponding network connection.

Typical communication data can include:

• Controller information
• Protection and equipment status
• Process data
• Monitoring information
• Diagnostic information
• Engineering and configuration data
• Supervisory communication

As a managed switch, the AFS670 can also be configured and monitored as part of the overall Ethernet infrastructure. Its network functions depend on the installed hardware configuration and the communication architecture in which the switch is used.

Role in an AFS Industrial Ethernet Control Architecture

The AFS670 operates at the communication layer of an industrial Ethernet control system.

Protection / Control Devices → AFS670 → Ethernet Network → SCADA / HMI / Engineering Workstation

Industrial Applications

Installation and Maintenance

1. Confirm the complete ABB AFS670 model and hardware configuration before installation or replacement.
2. Check the existing communication rack and network architecture.
3. Record current network configuration and management parameters before removing an installed switch.
4. Verify connected copper and optical Ethernet interfaces where applicable.
5. Inspect Ethernet cables, connectors, and associated network equipment.
6. Confirm the network topology and communication requirements.
7. Install the switch according to the approved cabinet and maintenance procedure.
8. Restore the required network configuration.
9. Verify communication between the AFS670 and connected automation devices.
10. Check HMI and SCADA communication after commissioning.
11. Review network and device diagnostics if communication problems remain.
12. Record the final configuration for future maintenance.

Network communication faults should be investigated at the switch, connected devices, physical Ethernet connections, network infrastructure, and application configuration levels rather than assuming that the switch itself has failed.

Related Components

Recommended Related Models

Key Advantages

• Managed Ethernet communication for industrial automation systems.
• Suitable for power, utility, and substation communication networks.
• Supports communication between automation and supervisory equipment.
• Suitable for centralized industrial communication architectures.
• Applicable to PLC, protection, HMI, and SCADA networks.
• Useful for network expansion and replacement projects.
• Suitable for rack-based industrial communication installations.
• Provides a dedicated managed network interface for connected Ethernet devices.

Technical FAQs

What is the ABB AFS670 used for?

The ABB AFS670 is used as a managed Ethernet switch in industrial automation, power, utility, and substation communication systems. It connects Ethernet-based control, protection, monitoring, and supervisory equipment.

What should be checked before replacing an AFS670?

The existing hardware configuration, network topology, communication interfaces, power arrangement, and management settings should be checked before replacement. The connected devices and network configuration should also be recorded to simplify recommissioning.

Can the AFS670 be used for substation communication?

Yes. The AFS670 can be incorporated into substation Ethernet architectures where protection, control, monitoring, SCADA, and engineering equipment need to communicate through a managed network infrastructure.

How should an AFS670 communication fault be investigated?

Start by checking the switch power and port status, followed by Ethernet or optical connections, connected network devices, network configuration, and application-level communication. HMI and SCADA communication should also be checked when the switch is part of a supervisory network.