Endress+Hauser Commubox FXA195

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Summary

Commubox FXA195 Technical Information

Product Overview: Gateways;Interfaces

Intrinsically safe interface converting HART protocols to USB signals.

Application Description

Connects intrinsically safe transmitters with HART to PC USB port for remote operation.

Key User Benefits

Enables remote commissioning and use with various software tools for intrinsically safe circuits.

Function and System Design

Measuring System Configuration

HART operation with a transmitter using a 250 Ω load and connection diagram.

Input and Output Interfaces

USB signal for PC, HART signal for transmitters, as per specifications.

Power Supply Details

Supplied via USB port (5VDC), connection for transmitter via adapter bushing.

Operating Conditions and Environment

Ambient Temperature and Humidity Limits

Nominal operating range -20°C to +50°C, storage -40°C to +85°C, 0-95% humidity.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

Interference Emission/Immunity to EN 61326, Class B equipment.

SIL 2 Protection Function Integration

Reactionless connection to protection functions graded as SIL 2 per IEC 61508.

Mechanical Construction

Dimensions and Weight

Housing dimensions 143 x 60 x 30 mm, weight approx. 200 g.

Certificates and Approvals

CE Mark and Ex-Approval Information

Meets EC directives, tested and confirmed by CE label. See ordering information for Ex-approval.

External Standards and Guidelines

Compliance with EN 60529 (IP code), EN 61010, EN 61326.

Ordering Information

Product Variants and Options

Approval codes (G, P, S) and additional options (1, 9) for complete product designation.

System Requirements

Hardware and Software Specifications

Minimum PC processor, interface, drive, OS, and required software versions.

Installation Guide

Scope of Delivery Contents

CD-ROM with USB drivers, PreInstaller, and ComPortFinder.

Installing the USB Driver

Step-by-step instructions for installing the Commubox USB driver on Windows 2000/XP.

The Commubox FXA195 is an intrinsically safe interface designed for Smart transmitters, enabling the conversion of HART protocols to USB signals for connection to a personal computer. This device facilitates remote operation of transmitters using Endress+Hauser's ToF Tool - Fieldtool Package, FieldCare, and ReadWin operating programs. Power for the Commubox is supplied via the USB port.

Function Description

The Commubox FXA195 acts as a gateway, connecting intrinsically safe Smart transmitters to a personal computer's USB port. This connection allows for remote commissioning and configuration of field devices directly from a control room. It supports HART communication, operating with a 250 Ω load in HART mode. The device is compatible with various Endress+Hauser operating programs, including ToF Tool - Fieldtool Package, FieldCare, ReadWin, and Commuwin, providing a versatile solution for device management.

The integrated communication resistor (270 Ω) in the Commubox should not be connected in parallel to a power supply point greater than 15 V. When used, it must always be looped into the 4...20 mA circuit. The device is designed for connection to intrinsically safe circuits with explosion protection [EEx ia] IIC, with a maximum connection voltage of up to 30 VDC.

Important Technical Specifications

Measuring System: In HART operation, a transmitter is operated with a 250 Ω load.
USB Port: Personal computer ↔ Commubox FXA195 = USB signal as per USB specification.
HART Interface: Measuring device(s) ↔ and Commubox FXA195 = HART signal as per HART specification.
Connection (Power Supply):
- For computer: USB port
- For transmitter: adapter bushing, 4 mm, independent of polarity
Supply Voltage:
- Voltage range: from the USB port of the personal computer, 5VDC.
- Current consumption: < 20 mA.
Intrinsically Safe Signal Circuit: BVS 05 ATEX E 039. For connecting an intrinsically safe circuit with explosion protection [EEx ia] IIC with a maximum connection voltage up to 30 VDC.
Permitted Ambient Temperatures:
- Nominal operating range: -20 °C ... +50 °C
- Storage temperature: -40 °C ... +85 °C
- Humidity: 0% ... 95% (no condensation)
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Interference Emission to EN 61326, Electrical Equipment Class B. Interference immunity to EN 61326.
Application in conjunction with protection functions: Commubox FXA195 can be connected reactionless to protection functions graded as SIL 2 in accordance with IEC 61508.
- SFF (safe failure fraction): 60%
- PFDavg (average probability of dangerous failure on demand):
  - 1 year: 1.23 x 10⁻⁶
  - 5 years: 6.13 x 10⁻⁶
  - 10 years: 1.23 x 10⁻⁵
Mechanical Construction:
- Housing dimensions: 143 x 60 x 30 mm.
- Weight: approx. 200 g.
CE Mark: Meets legal requirements of EC directives. Endress+Hauser confirms successful testing and CE label application.
Ex-approval: See ordering information for specific approvals (e.g., ATEX II (1)GD EEx ia IIC, FM IS CL.I,II,III Gr.A-G, CSA IS CL.I, II, III Gr.A-G).
External Standards and Guidelines:
- EN 60529: Ingress protections for housing (IP code).
- EN 61010: Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use.
- EN 61326: Interference emission (Class B operating equipment), interference immunity (Appendix A - industrial sector).

Usage Features

The Commubox FXA195 offers several key usage features:

Remote Commissioning: Enables direct commissioning of field devices from the control room, enhancing efficiency and reducing the need for on-site presence.
Software Compatibility: Fully compatible with Endress+Hauser's ToF Tool - Fieldtool Package, FieldCare, ReadWin, and Commuwin operating programs, ensuring seamless integration into existing systems.
Intrinsically Safe Connection: Designed for connection to intrinsically safe circuits (4...20 mA), making it suitable for hazardous environments.
Reactionless Operation: Complies with IEC 61508 for connection to 4...20 mA SIL 2 loops, ensuring safety and reliability in critical applications.
USB Powered: The device draws power directly from the USB port of the personal computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
Driver Installation: A CD-ROM is supplied with USB drivers, a PreInstaller for manual driver installation, and a ComPortFinder program to identify the virtual COM port. Administrator rights are required for installation on Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
Simple Setup: The installation process involves connecting the Commubox to a free USB port and following the on-screen prompts to install the drivers. The wizard guides the user through selecting the appropriate driver and confirming the installation.

Maintenance Features

While the manual does not explicitly detail maintenance features, the design and operational aspects imply the following:

Driver Updates: Regular updates to the USB drivers and operating programs (ToF Tool - Fieldtool Package, FieldCare, ReadWin, Commuwin) are crucial for optimal performance and compatibility with new operating systems or device firmware. Users should refer to Endress+Hauser's support channels for the latest software versions.
Troubleshooting: The ComPortFinder program assists in identifying the virtual COM port, which is a useful troubleshooting tool if communication issues arise.
Environmental Considerations: Adherence to the specified operating and storage temperatures, as well as humidity levels, is important to ensure the longevity and reliable operation of the device.
Compliance: The device's compliance with standards like EN 60529 (IP code) suggests a degree of protection against ingress, contributing to its durability in various industrial settings.
Hardware Longevity: The robust mechanical construction and adherence to safety standards (EN 61010) indicate a design intended for long-term, reliable use in industrial environments.