ABB TP854: A Technical Overview of the Automation Computer for System 800xA

In modern industrial automation, the control system is the brain, but it requires powerful nodes to interact with the real world and the people who manage it. The ​ABB TP854​ is a critical component in this architecture: a robust ​Automation Computer​ designed specifically for ABB's flagship ​System 800xA. This article provides a comprehensive technical examination of the TP854, exploring its role, key features, and the specifications that make it a reliable workhorse in demanding industrial environments.

What is the ABB TP854 Automation Computer?

The ​ABB TP854​ is not a standard office PC. It is a ruggedized, industrial-grade computer engineered to operate as a key node within the ABB System 800xA Distributed Control System (DCS). Think of it as a dedicated, high-performance engine that runs specific software components of the 800xA system.

Its primary function is to host and execute critical 800xA client and server applications directly on the plant floor or in control rooms, ensuring seamless integration and high performance for operators and engineers.

Core Functionality and System Architecture

Within the hierarchical structure of System 800xA, the TP854 plays several vital roles:

1. ​Operator Workplace Node:​​ The TP854 can serve as a powerful station for plant operators. It runs the 800xA operator interface, displaying process diagrams, alarms, trends, and control faceplates. Its performance ensures a responsive and fluid user experience, which is crucial during process upsets or alarm situations.
2. ​Engineering Station Node:​​ It can function as a station for control engineers to develop, configure, and maintain the 800xA application. This includes access to Control Builder for programming controllers and the System Configurator for managing the entire automation system.
3. ​Application Station Node:​​ The TP854 is capable of hosting various 800xA system services and third-party applications, such as data historians, advanced control applications, or connectivity servers for interfacing with other systems.

Key Technical Specifications and Features

The TP854 is built with industrial reliability and performance as its core principles.

​1. Ruggedized Industrial Design​

Unlike commercial computers, the TP854 is built to withstand the harsh conditions of industrial facilities.

• ​Wide Operating Temperature Range:​​ It can function reliably in environments with significant temperature variations.
• ​Vibration and Shock Resistance:​​ Its components are secured to endure the vibrations commonly found in plant environments.
• ​Enhanced Immunity to Electrical Noise:​​ Designed with superior EMI/RFI filtering to prevent malfunctions from electrical interference.

​2. High Performance for Demanding Applications​

To handle the graphics and data processing of a modern DCS, the TP854 is equipped with powerful hardware:

• ​Multi-core Processors:​​ High-performance CPUs to manage multiple tasks and complex graphical displays simultaneously without lag.
• ​Adequate RAM:​​ Ample memory to run the 800xA client and server software efficiently.
• ​Solid-State Drives (SSDs):​​ For fast boot times, rapid application loading, and improved reliability over traditional hard disk drives, as they have no moving parts.

​3. Pre-Installed and Optimized Software​

The TP854 is typically delivered with the necessary ABB System 800xA software pre-installed and optimized for the specific hardware. This "hardware-software package" approach reduces integration time, ensures compatibility, and simplifies maintenance.

​4. Redundancy and High Availability​

For critical nodes where uptime is non-negotiable (e.g., a primary operator station), the TP854 can be configured in a redundant pair. If the primary computer fails, the secondary unit automatically takes over, ensuring no loss of operational visibility or control.

​5. Multiple Connectivity Options​

The computer features a range of ports to connect to various peripherals and networks:

• ​Network Ports:​​ Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting to the plant's control network (CNET) and terminal bus.
• ​Display Ports:​​ Support for multiple high-resolution monitors, allowing operators to have an extended desktop for increased situational awareness.
• ​USB Ports:​​ For connecting keyboards, mice, and other peripherals.

The Role of the TP854 in a Modern DCS

The TP854 is a fundamental building block of a scalable System 800xA installation. It delivers the computational power needed to transform raw process data into actionable information for personnel, thereby enabling safe, efficient, and profitable plant operation.

Conclusion

The ​ABB TP854 Automation Computer​ is a purpose-built industrial computing solution that provides the necessary performance, reliability, and integration for ABB's System 800xA. Its rugged design ensures continuous operation in demanding environments, making it an ideal choice for roles ranging from operator workplaces to engineering stations, forming a critical link between the control system and the people who depend on it.