HONEYWELL FC-TSKUNI-1624 Universal Field Controller

Description

1. Core Overview & Positioning

2. Key Features & Functions

• Flexible, Configurable I/O:​ The core feature is its universal input/output points. These points are not hardware-fixed; they are software-configurable​ in the field to act as:
  • Analog Inputs (AI):​ For 0-10V, 0-20mA, 4-20mA, or resistance (RTD, potentiometer) signals from sensors (temperature, humidity, pressure, CO₂).
  • Digital Inputs (DI):​ For contact closures (dry contacts) from switches, flow switches, or status contacts.
  • Analog Outputs (AO):​ For 0-10V or 4-20mA signals to control devices like valve actuators, variable frequency drives (VFDs), or damper motors.
  • Digital Outputs (DO):​ Triac or relay outputs to start/stop motors, open/close valves, or energize alarms.
• Powerful Local Processing:​ Equipped with a 32-bit microprocessor capable of running complex control applications, PID loops, and custom logic programs written in Honeywell Control Language (HCL)​ or standard programming languages within the Niagara Framework.
• Standalone Operation:​ Can maintain and execute its control program even if communication to the central supervisor is lost, ensuring continued building operation.
• Comprehensive Communication:
  • C-Bus (Controller Bus):​ Honeywell’s proprietary, high-speed peer-to-peer network for connecting multiple Excel 5000 controllers for coordinated control (e.g., chiller plant sequencing).
  • LON (LonWorks) or BACnet:​ Often includes a port for integration into open protocol BMS networks.
  • Supervisor Network:​ Connects to a WEBs Supervisor or Enterprise Server via Ethernet (TCP/IP) or serial for monitoring, data logging, and global scheduling.
• Non-Volatile Memory:​ Retains its application program and configuration during power loss.

3. Model Number & Technical Specifications

• Processor:​ 32-bit RISC processor.
• Memory:​ Flash memory for application storage, RAM for runtime.
• I/O Points:​ A mix of universal configurable points​ (e.g., 6 UI/UC) and possibly dedicated digital inputs/outputs. Each universal point is individually software-configured for its function (AI, DI, AO, DO).
• Power Supply:​ 24 VAC or 24 VDC (typically, as standard for building automation).
• Operating Temperature:​ 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F).
• Communication Ports:
  • C-Bus Port:​ For peer networking with other Honeywell controllers.
  • Service Port:​ RS-232 for direct laptop connection (using a USB converter).
  • Network Port:​ Likely an Ethernet (RJ-45) port for TCP/IP connection to the BMS network.
• Mounting:​ DIN-rail mountable enclosure.

4. System Integration & Engineering

• Role in BMS Hierarchy:​ It is a field-level controller. It interfaces directly with sensors and actuators in the mechanical room or on the equipment. It reports data to and can be overridden by a supervisory-level​ workstation (WEBs Supervisor).
• Engineering Software:​ Programmed and configured using:
  • Honeywell CARE (Computer Aided Regulation Engineering):​ The traditional software for Excel 5000 controllers.
  • Niagara Workbench:​ The modern framework for WEBs systems, where the controller appears as a «station» to be configured.
• Configuration Steps:
  1. Define the physical hardware (I/O points, their types, and scaling).
  2. Create control applications using function block diagrams, HCL, or other Niagara programming tools.
  3. Define alarms, trends, and schedules.
  4. Bind controller points to the graphics and database on the supervisor.
• Typical Integration:​ Used to control complex HVAC equipment like Air Handling Units (AHUs), Fan Coil Units (FCUs), heat pumps, or small packaged rooftop units.

5. Typical Applications

• Air Handling Unit (AHU) Control:​ Managing fans, heating/cooling coils, humidifiers, and dampers with sequences for morning warm-up, economizer operation, and supply air temperature reset.
• Variable Air Volume (VAV) Box Control:​ (When configured as a zone controller).
• Chiller, Boiler, or Cooling Tower Plant Sequencing:​ Multiple FC-TSKUNI controllers can communicate via C-Bus to sequence multiple chillers based on load.
• Lighting Control:​ For scheduling and occupancy-based control of lighting circuits.
• Energy Management:​ Implementing demand limiting, load shedding, and optimal start/stop routines.