Metso PDP403 Distributed Processing Unit (DPU)

The Metso PDP403 is a legacy Distributed Processing Unit (DPU) or controller node primarily used in the Metso DNA and maxPAC Distributed Control Systems.

It is a critical processing element that handles real-time control logic and data exchange between I/O modules and the supervisory network.

1. Introduction

The PDP403 (Part No: 181580 / 69230D403C) is a “compact computer on a module” designed for high-availability process control.

It was often manufactured in collaboration with partners like BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd) and utilizes a rugged architecture suitable for heavy industrial environments.

It typically runs on a real-time operating system (such as Windows CE .NET 4.2 Core in some revisions) to ensure deterministic control.

2. Technical Parameter Table

3. Related Models

The PDP403 is part of the legacy processing tier that includes:

PDP401: A lower-capacity version of the distributed processing unit.

PDP601: A higher-tier controller used for larger process segments.

DPU-MR: The Master Redundant variant of these processing units.

D100644: An associated I/O processor/distribution module often used in the same rack.

4. Application Cases

Oil & Gas: Managing critical logic for refining and distribution where reliability is paramount.

Power Generation: Controlling boiler sequences and turbine auxiliary systems in coal-fired and gas power plants.

Chemical Processing: Executing complex PID loops for batch processing and safety interlocks.

Water Treatment: Supervising large-scale filtration and pumping stations via remote I/O integration.

5. Product Advantages and Features

Real-Time Determinism: Engineered to process thousands of I/O points with millisecond accuracy, preventing control “lag.”

Redundancy Support: Often configured in pairs to provide seamless failover, ensuring that a single module failure does not stop the plant.

Compact Integration: Combines CPU, memory, and bus interfaces on a single board, reducing the physical footprint in control cabinets.

Robust Hardware: Designed to withstand high temperatures (-40°C to 80°C in some configurations) and electrical noise common in heavy industry.

Comprehensive Diagnostics: Provides detailed internal status data to the operator station, allowing for rapid troubleshooting of hardware faults.

6. Other Models in the Same Series

The PDP and 400-series ecosystem includes several infrastructure components:

IOP114 / IOP331: Standard analog and digital input cards that interface with this DPU.

IOT300A: The terminal base unit where these processors are often mounted.

A413240: Redundancy link or specialized interface board for 400-series units.