ABB 560CMU05 High-performance central communication unit

ABB 560CMU05 is a high-performance Central Communication Unit (CMU) belonging to the RTU560 product family.

It acts as the “brain” of a Remote Terminal Unit, managing I/O modules, processing events, and handling complex communications between field devices and central SCADA systems.

1. Introduction

The 560CMU05 is a 32-bit processor-based module designed for substation automation, grid management,

and industrial control. It serves as a gateway that translates various field protocols (like Modbus or IEC 60870-5-103) into wide-area network protocols (like IEC 60870-5-104 or DNP3).

Its modular design allows it to be plugged into standard RTU560 subracks, where it manages the internal peripheral bus.

2. Technical Parameter Table

3. Related Models

560CMU02: A smaller variant with 3 serial ports and 1 Ethernet port.

560CMR01/02: Modern ARM-based replacements within the same family.

560MPR03: The typical subrack used to house the 560CMU05.

560PSU01: The power supply unit that feeds the CMU via the backplane.

560CMU05

4. Product Advantages and Features

Multi-Protocol Support: Can concurrently manage multiple SCADA protocols (IEC 60870-101/104. DNP3. Modbus) on different ports.

Deterministic Logic: Provides sub-millisecond event processing and command execution for time-critical automation.

Cybersecurity: The R0002 version often includes an integrated security chip for encrypted communication and secure access control.

Advanced Synchronization: Supports time-sync via SNTP, IRIG-B, or GPS-based clocks to ensure precise event timestamping ($\pm 1$ ms).

Integrated Web Server: Allows for remote diagnostics, configuration file management, and firmware updates through a standard browser.

5. Application Cases

Substation Automation: Controlling breakers and monitoring transformer health in high-voltage bays.

Renewable Energy: Managing communication between multiple wind turbine controllers and a central farm SCADA.

Oil & Gas Pipelines: Remote monitoring of pressure and flow sensors across long-distance pipelines with low-bandwidth serial links.

Water Management: Coordinating pumping stations and reservoir levels in municipal distribution networks.

6. Installation and Maintenance

Installation:

Addressing: Configuration is primarily done through the RTUtil560 software; ensure the IP address and station ID are correctly assigned before deployment.

Rack Insertion: Slide the module into two vacant slots of a 560MPR03 or 560SFR02 rack. Ensure the 48-pole DIN F connector is fully seated.

Serial Mode: The physical interface (RS-232 vs RS-485) is software-switchable. Use shielded RJ45 cables for all serial connections to minimize noise.

Maintenance:

LED Diagnostics: The “Run” (Green) and “Error” (Red) LEDs provide instant health status. Flashing serial LEDs (Tx/Rx) indicate active traffic.

Storage Card: Ensure the CompactFlash or SD card is securely locked; if the card is removed while powered, the system may crash or lose configuration.

Battery: The real-time clock (RTC) is battery-buffered. If the RTU loses time after a power cycle, the internal coin-cell battery may need replacement.