Description

The Foxboro FPS400-24 is a high-efficiency, single-phase AC to DC power supply module engineered for use within the Foxboro I/A Series® distributed control system (DCS), providing reliable and stable power for system components such as controllers, communication modules, and I/O cards. Manufactured by Foxboro (a part of Schneider Electric), the FPS400-24 delivers a regulated 24 VDC output at a continuous current of up to 20 A, making it suitable for powering critical control segments in industrial automation environments. Designed for integration into standard I/A Series chassis, this power supply ensures uninterrupted operation in demanding applications across power generation, oil & gas, chemical processing, and manufacturing facilities.

The FPS400-24 is built with advanced switching-mode power conversion technology, offering high efficiency (typically >85%), low heat dissipation, and excellent line and load regulation. It supports universal input voltage ranging from 90 to 264 VAC (47–63 Hz), enabling seamless deployment in global installations with varying mains voltages. The module includes comprehensive protection features such as overvoltage, overcurrent, short-circuit, and thermal shutdown, ensuring safe operation under abnormal conditions and safeguarding connected control hardware.

Engineered for redundancy and high availability, the FPS400-24 can be used in parallel with other compatible power supplies in a load-sharing configuration, allowing for N+1 redundancy to maintain system uptime during power module failure or maintenance. Its hot-swappable design enables replacement without shutting down the DCS cabinet, minimizing process disruption. With built-in status indicators and remote alarm contacts, the FPS400-24 provides real-time feedback on power health, facilitating predictive maintenance and rapid troubleshooting within the control system infrastructure.

FPS400-24 FOXBORO

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

The Foxboro FPS400-24 stands out for its reliability, integration, and resilience in mission-critical control systems. One of its primary advantages is its high power density and efficiency, delivering 480 W of regulated 24 VDC power in a compact, fanless design that reduces failure points and acoustic noise in control cabinets.

Its universal AC input capability allows the FPS400-24 to operate across a wide range of global power grids without manual voltage selection, simplifying installation and reducing spare part inventory. The power supply maintains stable output even under fluctuating line conditions, ensuring consistent performance of sensitive control modules.

A key feature is its support for redundant operation. When used in conjunction with other FPS400-24 units via a redundancy module or bus bar, it enables load sharing and automatic failover, ensuring continuous power delivery even if one unit fails. This is critical in process industries where unplanned shutdowns can result in significant financial and safety consequences.

The hot-swap capability allows technicians to replace a faulty unit without powering down the system—essential for maintaining high availability in 24/7 operations. Integrated LED indicators and remote alarm contacts enable both local and SCADA/HMI-level monitoring of power status, supporting proactive maintenance and faster diagnostics.

Additionally, the FPS400-24 meets stringent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards, minimizing interference with adjacent control and communication equipment. Its robust construction and convection cooling make it well-suited for harsh industrial environments with dust, vibration, and temperature variations.

Application Field

The Foxboro FPS400-24 is primarily deployed in industrial process control systems utilizing the I/A Series® DCS platform. It powers critical subsystems such as:

• Process controllers (e.g., P-series, A-series)

• Communication modules (FBM, FCM)

• I/O baseplates and field interface cards

• Operator interface stations and engineering workstations(via local cabinet power)

In power plants, the FPS400-24 supplies power to turbine control, boiler management, and emissions monitoring systems. In oil refineries and petrochemical plants, it supports safety interlocks, reactor control, and distillation unit automation. It is also widely used in water and wastewater treatment facilities, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and food & beverage processing, where precise and reliable control is essential.

Due to its compatibility with Foxboro’s legacy and modern I/A Series architectures, the FPS400-24 is ideal for both new installations and system upgrades, including brownfield modernization projects where maintaining system uptime is crucial.

Related Products

Foxboro FPS400-48: 48 VDC output version of the same series for specialized communication or legacy systems.
Foxboro FPS300-24: Lower-power 24 VDC supply (10 A) for smaller chassis or non-critical segments.
Foxboro FBM241/FBM242: 24 VDC powered I/O modules commonly powered by the FPS400-24.
Foxboro FCM10/FCM15: Fieldbus communication modules requiring stable 24 VDC input.
Foxboro PSL500-24: Redundant power supply module for high-availability configurations.
Foxboro SB500/SB510: I/A Series baseplates and chassis designed to house the FPS400-24.
Foxboro UPS Integration Kits: Uninterruptible power supply solutions for backing up FPS400-24-powered systems.
Foxboro 24 VDC Distribution Terminal Blocks: For splitting and monitoring 24 VDC power feeds.

FPS400-24 FOXBORO

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the FPS400-24, ensure the control cabinet is de-energized and locked out (LOTO). Verify input voltage compatibility (90–264 VAC) and confirm adequate ventilation around the module for heat dissipation. Use properly sized copper wiring (typically 14–12 AWG for input/output) and torque terminals to 0.6–0.7 Nm. Ground the module securely using the dedicated earth terminal.

Installation procedure: Mount the FPS400-24 on the DIN rail within the I/A Series cabinet. Connect the AC line and neutral to the input terminals, and link the 24 VDC output to the distribution bus or redundancy module. If using redundancy, ensure proper connection via a diode module or active sharing bus. Verify polarity and grounding before energizing.

Maintenance recommendations: The FPS400-24 is solid-state and requires minimal maintenance. Periodically inspect for loose connections, signs of overheating, or dust accumulation. Clean air vents with dry compressed air. Monitor status LEDs and alarm contacts through the control system; a red LED or activated alarm indicates a fault. The module can be hot-swapped—replace only with an identical unit and verify output stability post-installation. Keep spare units in anti-static packaging.