Foxboro (a brand under Schneider Electric) offers the FDC280 and FCP280 as part of its I/A Series process control instruments. Both devices are field-mounted, microprocessor-based controllers designed for industrial automation but serve distinct roles. This report examines their design, functionality, applications, and key differences to guide optimal selection.

1.Overview of FDC280 and FCP280

1.1 Foxboro FDC280

• Primary Function: Digital Controller (Standalone or Loop-Paired).
• Key Features:
• Performs PID control, sequencing, and arithmetic functions.
• Supports HART 7 and Foundation Fieldbus (FF) communication.
• Dual-channel input for process variables (PVs).
• Integrated LCD display for local configuration.
• Typical Applications:
• Flow, pressure, and temperature control loops.
• Compressor anti-surge systems.

1.2 Foxboro FCP280

• Primary Function: Field Control Processor (Integrated with I/A Series DCS).
• Key Features:
• Acts as a remote I/O and control node for Foxboro’s I/A Series.
• Supports redundant processors for high availability.
• Modular design for analog/digital I/O expansion.
• Compatible with FOUNDATION Fieldbus and PROFIBUS-DP.
• Typical Applications:
• Distributed control in power plants, refineries.
• Large-scale process automation with centralized SCADA.

2.Key Differences

2.1 Design and Architecture

ParameterFDC280FCP280Hardware RoleField-mounted controllerRemote I/O & control processorIntegrationStandalone or loop-pairedTightly coupled with I/A Series DCSRedundancyNot standardSupports hot-swappable redundancyI/O FlexibilityFixed channels (2 PV inputs)Modular expandable I/O cards

2.2 Communication Protocols

• FDC280: Focused on HART/FF for field devices.
• FCP280: Optimized for DCS integration (FF, PROFIBUS, Ethernet/IP).

2.3 Control Capabilities

• FDC280:
• Single/dual-loop PID control.
• Advanced algorithms (e.g., feedforward, ratio control).
• FCP280:
• Multi-loop control (handles hundreds of I/O points).
• Batch processing and sequence execution.

2.4 Diagnostics and Maintenance

• FDC280: Local LCD for troubleshooting.
• FCP280: Centralized diagnostics via Foxboro I/A Series software.

3. Selection Guidelines

Choose FDC280 for:

• Simple loop control without DCS dependency.
• Greenfield installations with HART/FF devices.

Choose FCP280 for:

• Large-scale DCS integration (e.g., oil & gas, power generation).
• Systems requiring redundancy and scalability.

While both devices share Foxboro’s reliability, the FDC280 excels in standalone control, whereas the FCP280 is a DCS workhorse. Understanding their distinctions ensures optimal performance and cost efficiency.