FC-DCOM-232/485 | Honeywell RS232/RS485 Communication FTA

Product Overview

The Honeywell FC-DCOM-232/485 is an RS232/RS485 Communication Field Termination Assembly (FTA) for the Honeywell Safety Manager system. It provides serial communication interface capabilities, enabling seamless integration between Safety Manager controllers and external devices using either RS232 or RS485 protocols. The module features configurable DIP switches for line conditioning, baud rate selection, and communication mode configuration.

Key Specifications

• Model Number: FC-DCOM-232/485
• Product Type: RS232/485 Communication FTA
• Series: Honeywell Safety Manager
• Communication Protocols: RS232 and RS485
• Baud Rates: Selectable (9600, 19200, 57600 bps and others)
• Data Format: Configurable (5, 6, 7, 8 data bits; 1, 2 stop bits; None, Even, Odd, Space, Mark parity)
• Weight: 660 g
• Configuration: DIP switch configurable
• Line Conditioner: DIP switch selectable
• Cable Length Support: Per RS232/RS485 specifications
• Fan-in/Fan-out: Supported

Core Features

• Dual-protocol support: RS232 and RS485 in a single FTA module
• Configurable DIP switches for line conditioning and communication parameters
• Flexible baud rate selection to match device requirements
• Configurable data format (data bits, stop bits, parity)
• Reliable data transmission optimized for harsh industrial environments
• Compact design for efficient panel space utilization
• Easy installation and system integration

Applications

• Serial communication between Safety Manager and external devices
• Modbus RTU/ASCII communication interfaces
• Integration with third-party serial devices
• Process control system data exchange
• SCADA and DCS communication bridging

FAQ

Q: Can the FC-DCOM-232/485 operate in both RS232 and RS485 modes simultaneously?
A: The module supports both protocols, but operation mode is typically selected via DIP switch configuration. Refer to the Safety Manager Hardware Reference for specific DIP switch settings.

Q: What is the maximum cable length supported?
A: Cable length depends on the selected protocol and baud rate. RS485 typically supports longer distances (up to 1200m) compared to RS232 (typically up to 15m). Refer to the official Hardware Reference for detailed cable length specifications.

Q: How is the line conditioner configured?
A: Line conditioning is enabled/disabled via DIP switches on the FTA module. Specific switch settings are documented in Section 15.2.4 of the Safety Manager Hardware Reference.

Installation Guide

1. Power down the Safety Manager system before installation.
2. Install the FC-DCOM-232/485 in the designated FTA slot.
3. Configure DIP switches for desired communication mode (RS232 or RS485).
4. Set baud rate and data format via DIP switches per application requirements.
5. Configure line conditioner DIP switches if required.
6. Connect serial cables to the appropriate connectors per pin allocation table.
7. Power up and verify communication via Safety Manager diagnostic tools.

Selection Tips

• For RS422/RS485-only applications, consider FC-DCOM-485 as an alternative.
• Verify baud rate requirements of connected devices before configuration.
• For Modbus applications, ensure proper master/slave configuration via DIP switches.
• Consider cable length and environmental interference when selecting line conditioner settings.