Description
ABB PM820-2 is a high-performance redundant processor module for the ABB AC 800M controller series, engineered to deliver reliable, real-time control for medium to large-scale industrial automation systems such as process plants, power generation facilities, and manufacturing lines.
supports hot redundancy switching with zero downtime,
enables seamless integration with ABB I/O modules and third-party devices,
features a powerful 32-bit processor for fast program execution,
offers extensive memory capacity for complex control strategies,
ensures compliance with international industrial standards for safety and reliability.
Product Description
ABB PM820-2 serves as the core processing unit of the ABB AC 800M distributed control system, designed to handle complex sequential and regulatory control tasks with high precision and stability. The module is built with redundancy capabilities, which means it can operate in tandem with a backup processor to ensure uninterrupted system operation even if the primary unit fails.
supports a wide range of industrial communication protocols including PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, and Modbus TCP, allowing smooth connectivity with field devices, HMIs, and upper-level management systems.
is equipped with a large memory pool (16 MB program memory, 32 MB data memory) to accommodate intricate control logic and real-time data storage,
features a modular design for easy installation on DIN rails and hot-swappable functionality for maintenance without production shutdowns. With its robust construction and resistance to electromagnetic interference,
is ideally suited for harsh industrial environments where temperature fluctuations, vibration, and electrical noise are common challenges.
Product Parameters
- Type: Redundant processor module for ABB AC 800M DCS
- Processor: 32-bit industrial-grade CPU, clock speed 400 MHz
- Memory: 16 MB program memory, 32 MB data memory, expandable up to 64 MB
- Redundancy: Hot standby redundancy, automatic switchover < 100 ms
- Communication Protocols: PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, RS-232/485
- I/O Connectivity: Supports up to 2048 digital I/O points, 512 analog I/O points
- Power Supply: 24 V DC ±10%, power consumption ≤ 15 W
- Operating Environment: Temperature -20 °C to +60 °C, humidity 5–95% (non-condensing), protection class IP20
- Certifications: IEC 61131-2, IEC 61508 (SIL 2), ATEX for hazardous areas
- Mounting: DIN-rail mounting, compatible with ABB AC 800M controller racks
Advantages and Features
- High Reliability with Redundancy: provides hot standby redundancy with sub-100ms switchover, eliminating downtime in critical applications like power plant boiler control or chemical reactor regulation.
- Flexible Communication: Support for multiple industrial protocols enables ABB PM820-2 to integrate seamlessly with both ABB and third-party devices, reducing system integration costs.
- Powerful Processing Performance: The 32-bit CPU and ample memory allow to execute complex control algorithms in real time, ensuring precise regulation of process parameters.
- Easy Maintenance: Hot-swappable design lets technicians replace or upgrade without stopping production, minimizing operational disruptions.
- Compliance with Safety Standards: Certification to IEC 61508 SIL 2 makes suitable for safety-related control systems in industries with strict safety requirements.
Application Fields and Cases
Application Fields
Application Cases
- Combined Cycle Power Plant: In a 500 MW combined cycle power plant, is deployed as the main processor for boiler and turbine control systems. Its redundancy feature ensures continuous operation during peak load periods, while its fast processing speed enables real-time adjustment of fuel supply and steam pressure, improving power generation efficiency by 3–5%.
- Petrochemical Distillation Unit: At a petrochemical plant, controls a distillation unit responsible for separating crude oil components. The module communicates with flow meters, temperature sensors, and control valves via PROFINET, maintaining precise temperature and pressure profiles to maximize product yield and reduce energy consumption.
Comparison with Competitors
| Comparison Parameter | ABB PM820-2 | Siemens S7-400 CPU 414-5H | Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 5571 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redundancy Switchover Time | < 100 ms | < 150 ms | < 120 ms |
| Max I/O Points | 2048 digital / 512 analog | 1536 digital / 384 analog | 1024 digital / 256 analog |
| Supported Protocols | PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP | PROFINET, Ethernet/IP | Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet |
| Safety Certification | SIL 2 | SIL 3 | SIL 2 |
| Memory Capacity | 16 MB program / 32 MB data | 12 MB program / 24 MB data | 8 MB program / 16 MB data |
| Cost | Medium | High | High |
Selection Suggestions and Precautions
Selection Suggestions
- For medium to large-scale DCS applications requiring uninterrupted operation, ABB PM820-2 is the optimal choice due to its reliable hot redundancy and high I/O capacity.
- When integrating with a mix of ABB and third-party field devices, is preferred for its multi-protocol support, which simplifies system design and reduces compatibility issues.
- For safety-related control systems (SIL 2), meets the necessary certification requirements and provides stable performance in harsh environments.
Precautions
- When installing , ensure the controller rack is properly grounded to prevent electromagnetic interference that may affect processor performance.
- Use only genuine ABB power supplies and cables to connect , as non-original components may cause voltage fluctuations and system malfunctions.
- Regularly update the firmware of using official ABB software to ensure compatibility with new I/O modules and security patches.
- During redundancy configuration, verify that the primary and backup ABB PM820-2 modules have identical firmware versions and program configurations to avoid switchover failures.


