# Product Details: Foxboro P0961FR I/A Series Analog Input/Output Module ## 

1. Product Overview The Foxboro P0961FR is a critical analog input/output (I/O) module belonging to Schneider Electric’s Foxboro I/A Series—an integrated industrial automation platform widely used in process control systems. Designed for high-precision signal acquisition and transmission, this module acts as a bridge between field sensors/actuators and the I/A Series Distributed Control System (DCS), enabling real-time monitoring and control of analog process variables (e.g., temperature, pressure, flow).

2. Key Technical Specifications

3. Core Features

• Multi-Channel Versatility: 8 AI and 4 AO channels enable simultaneous monitoring of multiple process variables (e.g., 8 pressure sensors + 4 control valves) in a single module—reducing chassis slot usage and system complexity. The differential AI design minimizes common-mode noise, critical for industrial environments with high electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• High-Precision Signal Handling: 16-bit ADC/DAC and ±0.1% AI accuracy ensure reliable data capture for processes requiring tight control (e.g., pharmaceutical batch mixing, chemical reactor temperature regulation). Built-in signal conditioning (filtering, linearization) eliminates signal degradation from long sensor wiring.
• Seamless I/A Series Integration: Designed for plug-and-play installation in Foxboro I/A Series chassis, with backplane communication enabling real-time data transfer to I/A Series controllers (e.g., ZCP270) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface). No external gateways are required, simplifying system setup and reducing integration costs.
• Robust Industrial Design: Operates in a wide temperature range (0°C to +60°C) and withstands industrial vibration/shock, making it suitable for harsh environments (e.g., refinery control rooms, power plant turbine halls). The module’s enclosed circuitry protects against dust and minor moisture ingress.
• Built-In Diagnostics: Channel-level fault detection (e.g., AI sensor open circuit, AO short circuit) triggers visual alerts via status LEDs and digital notifications to the I/A Series DCS. This enables rapid troubleshooting—reducing maintenance time and minimizing process disruptions.

4. Application Scenarios

• Oil & Gas: Monitors pipeline pressure (4-20 mA AI) and controls flow control valves (4-20 mA AO) in crude oil/gas transportation systems. The module’s noise immunity ensures accurate data in environments with high EMI from pumps and compressors.
• Chemical Processing: Captures temperature (via RTD/TC transmitters, 4-20 mA AI) and pH levels (0-10 V DC AI) in reactor vessels, while controlling chemical dosing pumps (4-20 mA AO). High accuracy supports compliance with ISO 9001 quality standards.
• Power Generation: Tracks boiler feedwater pressure (AI) and steam flow rate (AI), while adjusting turbine control valves (AO) to maintain grid frequency. Seamless integration with I/A Series DCS enables centralized monitoring of power plant operations.
• Water & Wastewater: Measures water level in storage tanks (0-10 V DC AI) and controls treatment chemical injection (AO) in municipal wastewater plants. The module’s multi-channel design reduces the number of I/O modules needed, lowering system costs.
• Pharmaceuticals: Monitors lyophilizer (freeze dryer) temperature (AI) and controls vacuum pumps (AO) during drug manufacturing. High precision and diagnostic capabilities meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for process traceability.

5. Installation & Configuration Notes

• Chassis Installation:
  1. Power off the Foxboro I/A Series chassis before installation.
  2. Align the P0961FR module with a single-width I/O slot in the chassis, ensuring the backplane connector is properly seated.
  3. Secure the module with the chassis’ locking screws (avoid over-tightening to prevent backplane damage).
  4. Power on the chassis and verify the module’s power LED (green) illuminates—indicating successful backplane connection.
• Wiring Guidelines:
  • Use shielded twisted-pair cables (22 AWG minimum) for AI/AO wiring to minimize EMI. Ground the shield at the sensor/actuator end (single-point grounding) to reduce noise.
  • For 4-20 mA AI channels: Connect sensor positive to the module’s AI+ terminal, sensor negative to AI-.
  • For 4-20 mA AO channels: Connect actuator positive to AO+, actuator negative to AO-. Ensure polarity is correct to avoid device damage.
• Configuration via I/A Series DCS:
  1. Launch the Foxboro I/A Series Configuration Tool (e.g., I/A Series Workbench).
  2. Scan the chassis to detect the P0961FR module; assign a unique module address (per chassis slot).
  3. Configure AI channels: Select signal type (4-20 mA/0-10 V), input range, and filter settings (e.g., 1-second filter for noisy environments).
  4. Configure AO channels: Set output type (4-20 mA/0-5 V) and safety values (e.g., 4 mA fail-safe for valves).
  5. Perform a calibration check using a precision signal generator (e.g., Fluke 726) to verify AI accuracy and AO output linearity.
• Maintenance Recommendations:
  • Inspect wiring connections quarterly for corrosion (especially in humid environments) and tighten loose terminals.
  • Clean the module’s status LED window with a dry cloth to ensure visibility of fault alerts.
  • Replace the module if diagnostic LEDs indicate a persistent internal fault (e.g., red fault LED stays lit despite wiring checks).

6. Quality & Warranty

• Certifications:
  • Compliance: IEC 61131-2 (industrial control equipment environmental testing), UL 508 (industrial control safety), CSA C22.2 No. 14 (Canadian safety standards), CE marking (EU market access).
  • Industry-Specific: Compatible with Foxboro I/A Series DCS certifications (e.g., ATEX for hazardous areas when used with certified I/A Series controllers).
• Warranty Period: 36 months from the date of delivery (covers manufacturing defects; excludes damage from improper installation, backplane voltage surges, or physical abuse).
• Lifecycle Support: Schneider Electric provides:
  • Spare parts availability for ≥10 years post-product discontinuation (per I/A Series lifecycle policy).
  • Technical documentation (installation guides, wiring diagrams) via the Schneider Electric Support Portal.
  • On-site troubleshooting support for I/A Series systems (global service network).

7. Ordering Information

• Standard Package Includes:
  1×P0961FR analog I/O module, 1×installation guide (English), 1×wiring diagram (color-coded for AI/AO channels), 2×chassis mounting screws.
• Required Accessories:
  • Foxboro I/A Series chassis (e.g., 1x8 slot chassis: P0917CH), I/A Series controller (e.g., ZCP270: P0926CP), shielded twisted-pair cables (22 AWG, e.g., Belden 3076F).
  • Calibration tools: Precision signal generator (Fluke 726), multimeter (Fluke 87V) for wiring checks.
• Related Products:
  • Foxboro I/A Series HMI (e.g., P0960HM) for module status monitoring.
  • Foxboro 84W Temperature Transmitter (4-20 mA output, compatible with P0961FR AI channels).
  • Foxboro IGP10 Pressure Transmitter (4-20 mA output, integrates with P0961FR for pressure monitoring).