ABB IMFEC11 Analog Input FSK Communication Module

Overview

The IMFEC11 is a multifunction analog input and communication module developed by ABB for use within INFI-90 and Symphony distributed control platforms.
It combines high-resolution analog signal acquisition with frequency-shift keying communication, enabling dependable data transfer between field instrumentation and control processors in electrically demanding environments.

Although suppliers may classify the unit as either an analog input slave or a communication interface, both descriptions refer to the same IMFEC11 hardware family. The difference lies in how specific communication capabilities are emphasized rather than in physical design.

Functional Characteristics

The IMFEC11 is designed to interface directly with field-level analog devices while maintaining reliable upstream communication to controllers and supervisory systems.
Its internal architecture prioritizes signal integrity, deterministic response, and resilience against electromagnetic interference.

Key functional capabilities include:

• Multi-channel analog signal acquisition with industrial voltage and current ranges

• FSK-based communication over serial networks for noise-tolerant data exchange

• Compatibility with ABB INFI-90 and Symphony control nodes

• Integrated diagnostics for module status, communication health, and fault detection

Technical Specifications

• Power supply: 24 V DC

• Power consumption: approximately 1 W

• Analog input channels: up to 16

• Supported signal ranges:

• 4–20 mA

• 1–5 V DC

• −10 V to +10 V

• Sampling frequency: up to 10 kHz

• Communication method:

• FSK over RS-485 (standard configuration)

• FSK carrier frequency: 120 Hz

• Operating temperature range: −20 °C to +70 °C

• Storage temperature range: −40 °C to +70 °C

• Dimensions: 96 × 90 × 29 mm

• Weight:  0.5 kg

• Country of manufacture: United States

Certain supplier-documented variants highlight extended communication support such as Ethernet-based TCP/IP or protocol gateways. These are typically system-level implementations rather than changes to the core IMFEC11 hardware.

System Compatibility

The IMFEC11 integrates directly into ABB INFI-90 and Symphony racks, supporting deterministic process control architectures where accurate analog data and robust communication are critical.

Supported system environments include:

• Power generation control systems

• Chemical and petrochemical processing

• Water and wastewater treatment plants

• Continuous manufacturing operations

• High-EMI industrial installations

Reliability and Diagnostics

The module incorporates self-monitoring logic to detect abnormal operating conditions, communication errors, and internal faults. Status indicators allow maintenance personnel to quickly identify issues during commissioning or operation, reducing troubleshooting time and unplanned downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IMFEC11 a communication module or an analog input module?
It is both. The module performs analog signal acquisition while transmitting data using FSK communication within the INFI-90 architecture.

Does IMFEC11 support both voltage and current inputs?
Yes. The module supports standard industrial voltage and current ranges, including 4–20 mA and 1–5 V DC.

Can IMFEC11 be used outside INFI-90 systems?
The module is specifically engineered for ABB INFI-90 and Symphony platforms and is not intended for standalone or third-party control systems.

Are Ethernet features native to IMFEC11 hardware?
Ethernet and protocol conversion features referenced by some suppliers are typically implemented through system integration or external interfaces, not through changes to the base IMFEC11 module.