Overview
Manuals
How It Works
The NIS/NPM Functional Pair
Features:
- Network Interface Slave (NIS)
- Native Infi-Net communication architecture
- Dual-processor hardware infrastructure designed to handle complex network protocols, error detection, and data packet buffering without loading the local controller
The ABB INNIS21 (or SPNIS21) is a network interface slave module designed specifically for Siemens/ABB control systems, including Symphony Plus, INFI 90, and Bailey systems. As the front end of the entire control network Cnet (INFI-NET) communication interface, it provides an intelligent communication link for high-speed interconnection between network nodes, supporting bidirectional data exchange between any node in a distributed control system (DCS) and other nodes in the network.
In terms of hardware integration and diagnostic/maintenance functions, this module is typically used in conjunction with the INNPM22 module and integrated onto a single printed circuit board within the module mounting unit. The module supports a dual-redundant network port design with a maximum transmission rate of 12 Mbps and is equipped with 16 panel LEDs for real-time, intuitive display of error codes, events, or error counts, significantly simplifying troubleshooting and operational diagnostics in complex industrial network environments.
The INNIS21 ABB Network Interface Module may still be available for purchase and support from Moore Automated Company beyond End-Of-Life (EOL) by the manufacturer (OEM).
ABB INNIS21 Network Interface Module Manuals/Datasheets/Link
Important Notice: Other accessories, manuals, cables, calibration data, software, etc. are not included with this equipment unless listed in the above stock item description. All prices are shown in USD.
The model operates as follows: Internally, a built-in processor runs operating system instructions stored in non-volatile ROM firmware, and built-in RAM provides temporary buffering and storage for data packets between the central processing unit and the Cnet/I/O expansion bus interface. The module receives data from the main controller (e.g., a process management module) via an 8-bit parallel I/O expansion bus. After encapsulation and hardware verification using its internal ABB network protocol, the data is converted into a 1500V DC isolated differential signal. This signal is then transmitted at high speed in real-time on the industrial Cnet bus through dual redundant network ports, enabling efficient network routing at the control layer.
The INNIS21 cannot operate as a standalone card. In any system layout, it must be used alongside an active Network Processor Module (NPM). The INNIS21 (slave card) handles the underlying high-speed physical layer tasks, i.e., sending and receiving serial data packets directly from coaxial or fiber optic network loops. The NPM (executor card) acts as the "brain" of this pair, receiving raw data packets from the INNIS21, processing the protocol layer, and sorting process tags so that they can be read by the local rack controller (such as the BRC100 or BRC300).
