Description

The ABB TC562 is a high-reliability Short Distance Transmission Modem engineered specifically for use with ABB AC 800M controllers and the 800xA system. In industrial settings, standard RS-232 communication is limited to short distances (typically <15 meters) and is highly susceptible to electrical noise, which can cause data corruption and communication drops. The TC562 solves this by converting single-ended RS-232 signals into robust differential signals, allowing reliable data transmission over standard twisted-pair cables for distances up to 2-3 kilometers (depending on baud rate and cable quality). By providing galvanic isolation and superior noise rejection, the TC562 ensures stable communication between controllers, remote I/O, barcode scanners, weigh scales, and third-party analyzers, even in electrically harsh environments. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to fiber optic converters for short-to-medium range applications.

Application Scenarios

A thermal power plant needed to connect an ABB AC 800M controller located in the main control room to a coal conveyor weigh scale situated 400 meters away in a noisy gallery filled with large motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs). The initial attempt using a long RS-232 cable failed immediately due to severe data errors caused by electromagnetic interference. Installing fiber optics was deemed too expensive and time-consuming for this single point. The engineering team installed a pair of ABB TC562 modems—one at the controller end and one at the weigh scale. The TC562 converted the signals to a noise-immune format suitable for the existing twisted-pair instrumentation cable. Communication became instant and stable, with zero data loss, allowing the plant to accurately monitor coal flow without costly infrastructure changes.