ABB CI626 (3BHT300053R1) — Detailed Product Specification, Introduction, Applications, and FAQ

Product Overview

The ABB CI626 (3BHT300053R1) is a high-performance industrial communication and interface module engineered for advanced automation systems requiring large numbers of analog and digital I/O channels, robust signal processing, and reliable data communication. Designed for mid-to-large scale industrial applications, CI626 acts as a central hub that connects field-level devices — including sensors, switches, meters, and actuators — to higher-level controllers such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and other supervisory software systems.

The CI626 is purpose-built for environments where precision, uptime, and noise-resilient signal acquisition are critical. Its comprehensive signal conditioning, electrical isolation, and embedded diagnostic capabilities provide high reliability over long operational lifetimes. The module supports a mix of digital and analog signals in a compact yet rugged housing engineered to withstand vibration, thermal cycling, electrical noise, and harsh industrial conditions.

The CI626’s design embraces modular scalability, enabling system architects to integrate it into centralized control cabinets or distributed modular racks, expanding automation networks without redesigning core infrastructure. With its extensive diagnostics, field technicians can quickly assess performance and troubleshoot issues, reducing downtime and improving maintenance efficiency.

Brand and Product Series

• Brand: ABB

• Product Series: CI Communication Interface Modules

The CI Communication Interface Modules series is a family of industrial interface and communication modules that serve as the backbone of automation I/O architectures. This series ranges from compact low-channel units to high-capacity modules like CI626 that support mixed analog and digital signals at high channel density. Members of this series enable reliable data exchange between field devices and automation control systems in manufacturing, process industries, energy systems, infrastructure, and more.

Product Introduction

The CI626 is an advanced interface module that consolidates analog and digital signals from a wide spectrum of field instrumentation. It performs high-precision signal conditioning, analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion, and secure signal isolation to ensure that data communicated to controllers remains accurate and free from electrical interference. The module supports a large number of input and output channels on a single platform, reducing system complexity by minimizing the number of separate interface units required.

The CI626 includes comprehensive status indicators and diagnostic feedback mechanisms. LED indicators on the front panel show power status, communication health, channel activity, and fault conditions, enabling rapid visual inspection and faster resolution of issues during installation and maintenance.

Physically, the CI626 is engineered to fit standard DIN rail systems or modular control racks, facilitating flexible deployment in control cabinets, remote I/O nodes, or distributed automation layouts. Its modular form factor and high integration density make it ideal for applications where space is limited but functionality is extensive.

Applications

Process Automation and Control
In industries such as chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, CI626 is used to collect signals from temperature, pressure, level, and flow sensors and communicate them to process control systems for real-time monitoring and control.

Factory and Machine Automation
In discrete manufacturing and automated assembly lines, CI626 interfaces with proximity sensors, limit switches, motion feedback systems, and actuators, supporting automated sequencing, quality inspection, and machine performance monitoring.

Energy and Power Systems Monitoring
The module acquires data from voltage and current transducers, power meters, and protective relays in energy generation and distribution systems, supporting energy management, load monitoring, and power quality assessment.

Infrastructure and Building Automation
CI626 captures data from environmental sensors, HVAC controls, security systems, and facility management devices, enabling centralized building automation and operational optimization.

Test and Measurement Environments
In engineering test labs and industrial test benches, CI626 supports synchronized multi-channel data acquisition, facilitating precise testing, calibration, and validation activities across a variety of signals.

Product Advantages

High Channel Density
CI626 supports a large number of digital and analog I/O channels in a single module, reducing system footprint and simplifying wiring and network architecture.

Precision Signal Conditioning
Advanced filtering, isolation, and stability design elements minimize noise impact and deliver accurate analog signal conversion with high repeatability.

Robust Industrial Design
Engineered to withstand temperature extremes, electrical interference, and physical vibration common in industrial environments, ensuring long operational life and reliability.

Flexible Integration
Compatible with DIN rail and modular rack mounting, CI626 can be deployed in centralized control enclosures or distributed remote I/O configurations.

Diagnostic Visibility
LED status indicators for power, communication, channel activity, and faults provide immediate visual feedback, helping technicians diagnose issues rapidly.

Technical Specifications

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