Emerson VE4017 DeltaV Fieldbus H1 Card

The Emerson VE4017, also cataloged as the VE4017 Fieldbus H1 Card, operates as a dedicated hardware component for interfacing FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 segments within Emerson DeltaV Distributed Control System platforms.

Hardware Specifications

Process Control & Fieldbus Integration

The VE4017 functions as a digital communications node, executing real-time control loop orchestration directly at the field level.

• FOUNDATION Fieldbus / Profibus PA Connectivity: Operating under the IEC 61158-2 physical layer standard, the module processes bidirectional digital communications over H1 segments. This digital trunk allows the host controller to continuously poll up to 32 total field transmitters or positioners across its two independent ports.
• Channel-to-Channel Isolation Parameters: To maintain robust execution under electrical line faults, the module features built-in galvanic isolation of 1500 VDC. This barrier prevents destructive ground loop currents and high-energy transients on the field bus from migrating into the central processing backplane.
• 1:1 Redundancy and Automatic Switchover: Supports seamless 1:1 redundancy when deployed on a redundant carrier assembly. The passive terminal block links two identical interface cards, providing continuous autosensing and automatic bumpless switchover of active communication states if a primary hardware fault occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What is the maximum physical device capacity per H1 port on this card?
• A: Each of the two ports can physically address up to 16 multi-drop devices, for a total of 32 devices per card. However, actual design limits depend on segment power supply capability, cable length, and overall loop execution latency requirements.
• Q: How does the card handle power distribution to the H1 field segments?
• A: The VE4017 interface card does not supply power directly to the H1 trunk. External, dedicated FOUNDATION Fieldbus power supplies and impedance matchers (conditioners) must be integrated into the segment wiring topology.
• Q: Is a redundant terminal block required to achieve 1:1 hardware redundancy?
• A: Yes. To implement a fully redundant H1 segment, a redundant terminal block must be combined with two active VE4017 interface modules. This allows the secondary card to instantly monitor and take over communication without dropping fieldbus packets.

Field Installation Guidelines

• Segment Termination Verification: Every H1 field segment requires exactly two physical terminators, typically located at the power conditioner and at the furthest junction box in the field. Operating a segment with incorrect termination will cause severe wave reflections and communication failure.
• Shield Grounding Continuity: The H1 cable shield must be continuously connected through all field junctions but grounded at only one central point—typically at the H1 power conditioner cabinet. Do not ground the cable shield at the individual transmitter housings to prevent parallel ground loop paths.
• Module Insertion and Latching: Align the card with the designated M-series carrier guide rails. Slide the card back until the pin connectors seat completely into the backplane, then hand-tighten the top and bottom retaining screws to secure the module against vibration.