Description
Note: Many products are not yet listed. Please contact us for more product information. Our supply channels are constantly expanding, and we currently have 20 stable shared supply channels. Please confirm the model, product, price, and all other necessary information with customer service before placing an order. We offer new, refurbished, and used products, and prices are adjusted according to the year of the item you require.
3. Product Introduction (Anti-Template)
Discrete outputs remain essential for driving solenoids, contactors, interlocks, and status indicators in process plants. The FBM242 (RH916TA) provides sixteen externally powered, galvanically isolated output channels for the Foxboro I/A Series and Foxboro Evo platforms.
It accepts commands from the control processor over the module Fieldbus and switches field power supplied through the associated Termination Assembly. Plants that standardized on Foxboro systems keep this module available because loss of a discrete output card can disable multiple interlocks or final elements until a replacement is installed.
FBM242 RH916TA
FBM242 RH916TA
FBM242 RH916TA
FBM242 RH916TA
4. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | FBM242 / RH916TA (supersedes P0916TA) |
| Output Channels | 16 discrete outputs |
| Output Type | Externally sourced switch |
| Voltage Range (basic) | 15–60 V DC |
| Load Current | Up to approximately 2–2.25 A per channel (depending on TA and temperature) |
| Higher-Voltage Options | Via Termination Assemblies: 120 V AC / 125 V DC or 240 V AC (relay) |
| Isolation | Galvanic isolation (channel or group depending on TA) |
| Power Supply | 24 V DC redundant (+5 % / –10 %) |
| Power Consumption | Max 3 W at 24 V DC |
| Communication | Redundant 2 Mbps module Fieldbus |
| Fail-Safe | Configurable fail-safe / fallback options |
| Approximate Weight | 284 g (module only) |
5. Field Application & Technical Pitfalls (The Engineer’s Guide)
This module is used to drive discrete field devices such as solenoid valves, motor starters, alarm horns, and status lamps in Foxboro-controlled process units. Different Termination Assemblies allow the same FBM to support low-voltage DC switching or higher-voltage AC/DC relay outputs.
Three pitfalls appear during replacement:
Termination Assembly mismatch – the FBM242 must be paired with the correct TA for the intended voltage and protection scheme; an incorrect TA can leave channels unprotected or incompatible.
External power integrity – because the outputs are externally sourced, loss or incorrect polarity of the field power supply disables all channels even if the module itself is healthy.
Fail-safe configuration – the desired fail-safe state (on, off, or hold last value) must be correctly configured; an incorrect setting can produce unexpected process actions on module or communication failure.
One plant replaced an FBM242 and found several outputs remained de-energized. The new module was healthy; the external 24 V field supply fuse on the Termination Assembly had blown during the swap. Replacing the fuse restored normal operation.
6. Quality Control (QC) SOP & Transparency
- Inbound Verification – OEM labeling, part number (RH916TA / FBM242), and date codes are photographed and checked against the packing list; any signs of prior field use are noted.
- Live Rig Testing – module is installed on a known-good baseplate with a compatible Termination Assembly, powered, and exercised with simulated output commands.
- Parameter Testing – channel switching, isolation, and status LED behavior are verified where possible.
- Final QA & Packaging – unit is sealed in an anti-static bag with desiccant, fitted with a QC-passed label showing test date and technician ID, then double-boxed for shipment.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary function of the FBM242 RH916TA?
It is a 16-channel externally sourced discrete output module for Foxboro I/A Series and Foxboro Evo systems.
What voltages can it switch?
The basic module supports 15–60 V DC. With the appropriate Termination Assembly it can also drive 120 V AC / 125 V DC or 240 V AC loads via relays.
Does it require external field power?
Yes. The output circuits are externally sourced; field power is supplied through the Termination Assembly.
Is the module hot-swappable?
Foxboro FBM modules are designed for removal and insertion under power when proper procedures are followed, but always follow the system documentation for the specific installation.
What warranty comes with a new-surplus unit?
Twelve months from shipment against defects in materials and workmanship when installed within the published ratings.
How do I confirm the module is healthy after installation?
Apply system and field power, force known output commands from the control processor, verify that each channel switches correctly at the field terminals, check status LEDs, and confirm that no module or channel faults are reported by the system diagnostics.
