ABB IMHSS05 – High‑Speed Serial Interface Module for INFI 90/Harmony DCS

The ABB IMHSS05 is a high-speed serial (HSS) communication module designed for ABB Harmony/INFI 90 systems. From my experience, it’s a practical way to integrate third‑party intelligent devices—drives, analyzers, HMIs, smart meters—over RS‑232/RS‑422/RS‑485 into an existing ABB DCS without reworking the whole control architecture. One thing I appreciate is how it typically supports Modbus RTU/ASCII and higher baud rates, so data moves quickly and predictably. You might notice that upgrade projects often swap in an IMHSS05 to gain more reliable serial comms and simplified diagnostics.

Typical use cases include: pulling register data from Modbus field instruments, bridging legacy serial devices to a BRC‑based controller strategy, or segmenting RS‑485 networks to cut down on noise and retries in brownfield plants. In many cases, it’s the cleanest path to keep proven field assets online while your control system evolves.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week when in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full balance prior to delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• High‑speed serial channels – Designed for fast, stable RS‑232/RS‑422/RS‑485 links to third‑party devices.
• Protocol support that matters – Typically supports Modbus RTU/ASCII; ideal for VFDs, power meters, analyzers, and RTUs.
• Harmony/INFI 90 integration – Seamlessly ties serial data into ABB controller strategies without extra gateways.
• Reliable performance – Appears to be optimized for higher baud rates and longer RS‑485 runs with proper termination.
• Diagnostics and status – Front‑panel indicators and onboard diagnostics typically simplify commissioning and troubleshooting.
• Backplane powered – Draws power from the standard INFI 90 I/O rack backplane; no external supply complexity.
• Install-friendly form factor – Standard plug‑in module for Harmony I/O racks; minimizes cabinet rework.
• Good for brownfield upgrades – In many cases, offers a straightforward path to modernize serial communications while keeping legacy devices in service.

Technical Specifications

Note: Values above reflect typical configurations seen in the field; verify exact power, baud, and connector details against your system revision and firmware.

Related or Supporting Products

• ABB IMHSS03 – Earlier high‑speed serial module. Suitable for legacy systems; IMHSS05 typically offers improved performance and diagnostics.
• ABB BRC410 – Harmony controller commonly paired with serial interface modules. Good when you need tighter execution cycles and larger strategies.
• ABB INICT03A – Ethernet/communication interface for linking Harmony/INFI 90 nodes to higher‑level networks. Not a replacement for IMHSS05, but often used together in mixed topologies.
• Shielded RS‑485 cabling & termination kits – Helps stabilize longer multi‑drop runs; from my experience, correct termination reduces retries dramatically.

“We replaced an older IMHSS03 with an IMHSS05 during a drive upgrade—same rack footprint, cleaner Modbus polling, and fewer comms alarms at 57.6 kbps.” — Maintenance Supervisor, chemical plant

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & environment – Install in a clean, dry control cabinet with adequate ventilation. Keep away from VFDs and high‑EMI sources when possible.
• Rack & grounding – Use a standard Harmony/INFI 90 I/O rack with proper protective earth. Maintain a single‑point ground to avoid serial ground loops.
• Wiring – Use shielded twisted pair for RS‑485. Observe polarity, biasing, and end‑of‑line termination (typically 120 Ω). Keep stubs short on multi‑drop networks.
• Commissioning – Match baud, parity, stop bits, and Modbus addressing on both ends. Start at lower baud for verification; increase once stability is confirmed.
• Safety – De‑energize the rack before inserting/removing modules. Observe ESD precautions when handling the board.
• Routine maintenance – Quarterly inspection for connector seating and dust; review comms error counters; back up configuration; apply validated firmware updates when available.

Quality & Certifications

• Manufacturing typically under ISO 9001 quality systems
• CE marked; UL/CSA recognition common for Harmony I/O modules
• RoHS compliance may vary by production year; we can check by serial/revision
• 365‑day warranty coverage as stated above