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ABB INICT13A (Bailey Controls) – Computer Interface Module for Net 90/INFI 90 DCS Systems

Original price was: $3,288.00.Current price is: $3,008.00.

  • Brand: ABB (formerly Bailey Controls)
  • Model: INICT13A
  • Product Series: Bailey Net 90 / INFI 90 DCS
  • Product Type: Computer Interface Module / Communication Gateway.
  • Function:
    • Facilitates bidirectional data communication between the INFI 90 Control Loop and external Host Computers.
    • Enables remote monitoring, data logging, engineering configuration, and integration with Plant Information (PI) systems.
    • Acts as a protocol converter between the proprietary INFI 90 highway protocol and standard computer communication protocols.
Category: SKU: ABB INICT13A Tag:

Description

1. Product Title

ABB INICT13A (Bailey Controls) – Computer Interface Module for Net 90/INFI 90 DCS Systems

2. Product Overview

The ABB INICT13A is a specialized Computer Interface Module originally developed by Bailey Controls (now part of ABB) for the Net 90 and INFI 90 Distributed Control Systems (DCS). This module serves as a critical communication bridge, enabling data exchange between the DCS control network (the INFI 90 Loop) and external host computers, engineering workstations, or operator interfaces.
In legacy power plant and industrial process architectures, the INICT13A allows higher-level computing systems (such as PCs running historical data software, advanced optimization algorithms, or plant management systems) to access real-time process data stored in the DCS controllers (like the IMCPS01 or IMMFP01). It typically connects via a proprietary parallel or serial interface on the DCS side and standard computer interfaces (often ISA bus or specific serial links depending on the host card configuration) on the computer side. As a component of the Bailey Net 90/INFI 90 family, it is now considered obsolete/discontinued, with availability limited to the surplus market, refurbishment specialists, and industrial automation brokers.
Note: The “INI” prefix denotes an Interface module, “CT” often refers to Computer/Communication Terminal, and “13A” indicates the specific revision and form factor compatible with the Net 90 rack system.

3. Technical Specifications

(Specifications are representative based on typical Bailey Net 90/INFI 90 interface modules)
  • Brand: ABB (formerly Bailey Controls)
  • Model: INICT13A
  • Product Series: Bailey Net 90 / INFI 90 DCS
  • Product Type: Computer Interface Module / Communication Gateway.
  • Function:
    • Facilitates bidirectional data communication between the INFI 90 Control Loop and external Host Computers.
    • Enables remote monitoring, data logging, engineering configuration, and integration with Plant Information (PI) systems.
    • Acts as a protocol converter between the proprietary INFI 90 highway protocol and standard computer communication protocols.
  • Compatible Systems:
    • Bailey Net 90 DCS.
    • ABB INFI 90 DCS.
    • Requires specific Carrier Assemblies (e.g., NMPM01, NMFC03) and Power Supplies compatible with the Net 90 rack.
  • Interfaces:
    • DCS Side: Connects directly to the INFI 90 Loop via the backplane of the Net 90 carrier.
    • Host Side: Typically features a connector for a Host Interface Cable linking to a PC expansion card (e.g., a specific ISA or PCI card installed in the host computer, often part of a kit like the ICT13A kit). Some configurations may use serial (RS-232/422) links.
  • Data Transfer Rate: Dependent on the host interface and loop load; typically supports speeds sufficient for real-time trending and alarm processing (e.g., several kBaud to low MBaud range equivalent).
  • Addressing: Configurable node address on the INFI 90 loop (usually via dip switches or software configuration tools like Composer or WinTool).
  • Diagnostics:
    • Front-panel LEDs indicating Power, Loop Communication Status, Host Link Status, and Fault conditions.
    • Self-diagnostic routines reported to the system manager.
  • Power Supply: Powered via the Net 90 Carrier backplane (typically +5V DC and +/-15V DC or +24V DC depending on the specific carrier and power supply unit used).
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (Industrial grade).
  • Mounting: Plug-in module designed for specific slots in Bailey Net 90 Carrier Assemblies (e.g., 15-slot or 20-slot racks).
  • Status: Discontinued / Obsolete. No longer manufactured by ABB. Sourced from surplus inventory or refurbished units.

 

4. Key Features & Benefits

  • Legacy System Integration: Essential for connecting modern or legacy host computers to aging Bailey Net 90/INFI 90 systems, extending the life of existing DCS investments without full migration.
  • Real-Time Data Access: Provides reliable, low-latency access to process variables, alarms, and events for historical trending, reporting, and advanced control applications.
  • Robust Communication: Designed for high-noise industrial environments, ensuring stable data links between the control room and field controllers.
  • Standardized Interface: Simplifies the connection to standard PC-based HMI and data historian software (e.g., Wonderware, OSiSoft PI) via the appropriate host adapter.
  • Diagnostic Visibility: Clear LED status indicators allow operators and maintenance staff to quickly identify communication faults or module failures.
  • Proven Reliability: Part of the highly reliable Bailey INFI 90 architecture, known for decades of continuous operation in power generation and heavy industry.

 

5. Application Scenarios

  • Power Generation: Connecting turbine control systems, boiler monitoring, and balance-of-plant operations in coal, gas, and nuclear plants built in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Pulp & Paper: Integrating digester controls, paper machine drives, and chemical recovery processes with plant-wide information systems.
  • Oil & Gas: Monitoring pipeline compressor stations, refinery distillation units, and offshore platform processes.
  • Water & Wastewater: Centralizing data from remote pump stations and treatment facilities into a central SCADA or DCS historian.
  • Mining & Metals: Managing smelter operations, rolling mills, and material handling systems where INFI 90 was historically deployed.

 

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: What is the difference between INICT13A and ICT13A?
    • A: INICT13A typically refers to the specific module that plugs into the Bailey Net 90 rack. ICT13A often refers to the broader interface kit or system, which may include the INICT13A module, the corresponding host computer interface card (installed in the PC), and the necessary cabling. They are part of the same communication solution.
  • Q: Is the ABB INICT13A still supported by ABB?
    • A: No. The INICT13A is part of the obsolete Bailey Net 90/INFI 90 product line. ABB no longer manufactures new units or provides direct firmware support. Maintenance relies on existing stock, third-party refurbishers, and specialized automation suppliers (many located in Xiamen, China, or Europe/US brokers).
  • Q: Can I replace the INICT13A with a modern Ethernet gateway?
    • A: Not directly. Modern gateways (e.g., Prosoft, Moxa, or ABB’s own 800xA connectivity solutions) typically require different hardware architectures and protocol stacks. Replacing an INICT13A usually involves a system upgrade project to migrate the communication layer to Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, or OPC UA, which may require replacing controllers or adding modern communication coprocessors to the existing rack.
  • Q: What software is needed to configure the INICT13A?
    • A: Configuration was historically performed using Bailey Composer, WinTool, or INFI 90 Engineering Workstation software. These tools run on older operating systems (Windows NT/2000/XP) and are required to set the loop address, baud rate, and other communication parameters.
  • Q: What are common failure points for the INICT13A?
    • A: Common issues include aging electrolytic capacitors leading to power instability, connector corrosion on the backplane or host cable port, and firmware glitches due to memory degradation. Refurbished units often have these components replaced to ensure reliability.
  • Q: Where can I buy a replacement INICT13A?