Description
ABB UAC326AE01 HIEE401481R1 – High-Performance Industrial Communication Processor for Control Systems
If you’re working on a modernized automation setup within power generation or heavy industrial processing, the ABB UAC326AE01 (HIEE401481R1) is one of those backend workhorses that doesn’t grab attention—but keeps everything talking smoothly. It’s a communication processor module designed specifically for integration into ABB’s Symphony Plus (S+), typically serving as a bridge between control systems and higher-level monitoring or engineering stations.
One thing I appreciate is how it handles protocol translation in real time—especially when dealing with legacy equipment alongside newer HMIs. From my experience, it tends to stabilize network traffic in environments where OPC DA or Modbus TCP chatter can otherwise bog down performance.
Key Features
- Dedicated communication gateway: Manages data exchange between S+ controllers and external systems like historian servers or engineering workstations via Ethernet/IP.
- Integrated web server interface: Allows remote diagnostics and status checks through a standard browser—handy during troubleshooting without needing full SCADA access.
- Hot-swappable design: Supports replacement under power in most configurations, minimizing downtime during maintenance cycles.
- Redundancy-ready: Can be deployed in redundant pairs to maintain uptime in mission-critical processes such as turbine control or substation automation.
- Firmware flexibility: Updated through standard ABB tools like Advant Station 600 or System 800xA, which makes lifecycle management more predictable.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | ABB / UAC326AE01 (HIEE401481R1) |
| HS Code | 85371090 – Automatic regulating or controlling instruments and apparatus |
| Power Requirements | Typically powered via backplane (24 VDC nominal); draws current from S+ chassis supply |
| Dimensions & Weight | Standard 19″ rack/module format; ~1.2 kg depending on housing variant |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +55°C (with derating above 45°C in some cabinets) |
| Signal Input/Output Types | Digital communications only – no analog I/O |
| Communication Interfaces | Dual Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps), supports TCP/IP, OPC, Modbus TCP, and ABB-specific protocols |
| Installation Method | DIN rail or chassis-mounted in ABB Symphony Plus I/O racks (e.g., HIARxx series) |
Application Fields
This module shows up most often in power plants—especially combined cycle facilities running on ABB’s Symphony Plus platform. It’s also found in water treatment SCADA networks and oil & gas compression stations where reliable comms between control logic and operator interfaces are non-negotiable. In many cases, it replaces older communication processors that lacked native web support or sufficient bandwidth for trending data.
A client recently used this unit during a DCS migration at a biomass plant—they needed stable connectivity between new engineering laptops and existing AC800M controllers without overloading the system network. The UAC326AE01 handled the load cleanly, even with multiple simultaneous connections.
Advantages & Value
Procurement teams tend to favor this model because it’s still supported by ABB’s current toolchain, unlike some end-of-life modules. That means firmware updates, compatibility patches, and documentation are accessible. While not cheap, its long-term reliability reduces the risk of unplanned outages—something asset managers care about more than upfront cost.
It appears that availability has tightened slightly over the past year, so having a backup unit on hand seems to be a smart move for sites relying on continuous operation. Also, since it integrates natively with 800xA, there’s less configuration overhead compared to third-party gateways.
Installation & Maintenance
You’ll want to install this in a clean, low-vibration cabinet meeting IP54 standards, ideally with forced ventilation if ambient temps exceed 40°C. Make sure the grounding is solid—floating grounds have been known to cause intermittent comms drops in some installations.
Wiring is straightforward: just connect the Ethernet cables and verify link lights. No terminal blocks or jumpers involved. For maintenance, check event logs quarterly and consider scheduling firmware verification annually. Calibration isn’t applicable—it’s a digital module—but reviewing network settings after site-wide IT changes helps avoid surprises.
Quality & Certifications
The UAC326AE01 carries CE, UL, and CSA markings, and complies with IEC 61000-6-2 and IEC 61000-6-4 for industrial EMC robustness. It’s also RoHS compliant. ABB typically backs these units with a standard 365-day warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions.
Delivery usually takes about a week if in stock, though lead times can stretch to four weeks for refurbished or low-supply batches. Orders require 50% advance payment, with the balance due before shipment. We ship globally via FedEx, UPS, or DHL—whichever offers the fastest transit for your region.
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