ABB RDCO-04C – DDCS communication board for reliable drive-to-drive and option-module linking on ACS800

The ABB RDCO-04C is a multi‑channel DDCS communication board used in ABB ACS800 drives. From my experience, it’s the piece you add when you need robust, fiber‑optic links between the drive control unit (RDCU) and external modules—things like NETA‑21 remote monitoring gateways, remote I/O over DDCS, or synchronizing multiple drives in a common line. You might notice that, compared with single‑port options, the RDCO‑04C gives you more channels to segment traffic and build some redundancy in demanding applications.

Typical use cases include tying a master ACS800 to several follower drives on a winder, linking cabinet‑mounted DDCS I/O where copper isn’t ideal, or simply freeing up the main option slots by offloading DDCS connections to this board. One thing I appreciate is how predictable the fiber‑optic DDCS link behaves in noisy switchgear—installers usually report fewer signal integrity surprises compared with long copper runs.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Delivery: 1 week for in‑stock items; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Multi‑channel DDCS – Provides multiple DDCS fiber‑optic channels (plastic optical fiber) to connect the RDCU with external modules or other drives.
• Fiber‑optic noise immunity – Optical links typically resist EMI from VFD output cables and high‑power environments better than copper.
• Seamless ACS800 integration – Installs inside the drive, powered by the control unit; no external power supply needed.
• Status diagnostics – Channel‑level indicators (LEDs) make commissioning and fault tracing quicker in most cases.
• Compact add‑on – Saves cabinet space; wiring remains inside the enclosure for cleaner layouts.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• ABB RDCO-03 – DDCS communication board variant with different channel count/layout; suitable when fewer links are needed.
• ABB NETA-21 – Ethernet/Web server gateway that interfaces to the drive via DDCS; often paired with RDCO boards for remote access.
• ABB RDCU-12C – Drive control unit for ACS800; the RDCO-04C mounts to compatible RDCU assemblies.
• ABB RPBA-01 / RETA-01 / FENA-01 – Fieldbus/Ethernet adapters (non‑DDCS). Choose these when PLC fieldbus connectivity, rather than DDCS links, is the priority.

Installation & Maintenance

• Environment – Install inside a clean, dry cabinet meeting standard industrial enclosure practices. Provide ventilation consistent with ACS800 requirements.
• ESD precautions – Handle the board with grounding protection; avoid touching components and fiber ends.
• Fiber routing – Use 1 mm POF with protective jackets; keep bend radius generous (typically ≥25 mm). Avoid tight cable ties and sharp bends.
• Connections – Ensure correct DDCS channel mapping; seat connectors until they click. Keep dust caps on unused ports.
• Wiring separation – Route optical fibers away from high‑voltage terminals and moving parts. Even though it’s optical, tidy routing reduces accidental damage.
• Routine checks – Inspect connectors during scheduled shutdowns; clean fiber tips with approved swabs if signal quality seems to drop. Keep drive firmware up to date when adding or re‑addressing DDCS devices.

Quality & Certifications

• Conforms to CE requirements for EMC when installed in ACS800 drives
• RoHS compliant; manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• UL/CSA usage typically as a recognized component within the drive
• Manufacturer’s warranty: 12 months (365 days)