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ETHERNET LINK SETUP Data communication between the FBM232 and field devices are through the RJ-45 connector located on the front of the FBM232 module. The RJ-45 connector of the FBM232 can be connected through hubs, or through Ethernet switches to the field devices (refer to “ETHERNET SWITCHES FOR USE WITH FBM232” on page 8). Connection of multiple devices to the FBM232 requires a hub or switch. CONFIGURATOR The FDSI configurator sets up the FBM232 XML based port and device configuration files. The port configurator allows for easy setup of the communication parameters for each port (such as, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), IP addresses). The device configurator is not needed for all devices, but when needed it configures device specific and point specific considerations (such as, scan rate, address of the data to be transferred, and the amount of data to be transferred in one transaction). OPERATIONS The FBM232 can access up to 64 devices to read or write data. From the Foxboro Evo control station to which the FBM232 is connected, up to 2000 Distributed Control Interface (DCI) data connections can be made to read or write data. Supported data types are determined by the particular driver loaded on the FBM232, which converts the data to the DCI data types listed below:  An analog input or output value (integer or IEEE single-precision floating point)  A single digital input or output value  Multiple (packed) digital input or output values (packed in groups of up to 32 digital points per connection). Thus a Foxboro Evo control station can access up to 2000 analog I/O values, or up to 64000 digital I/O values, or a combination of digital and analog values using the FBM232. The frequency of access to the FBM232 data by a control station can be as fast as 500 ms. The performance is dependant on each device type and the layout of data in the device. The FBM232 collects the required data from the devices, performs the necessary conversions, and then stores the converted data in its database for incorporation into the Foxboro Evo plant management functions and operator displays. Data may also be written out to the individual devices from the Foxboro Evo system. FIELDBUS COMMUNICATION The Fieldbus Communications Module (FCM100Et or FCM100E) or the Field Control Processor (FCP270 or FCP280) interface the redundant 2 Mbps module Filedbus used by the FBMs. The FBM232 accepts communication from either path of the redundant 2 Mbps module Fieldbus - should one path fail or be switched at the system level, the module continues communication over the active path.