The ABB Bailey IMCKN02 clock network module is a critical time synchronization component in the Bailey INFI 90 distributed control system (DCS) . Designed to manage and distribute a consistent and synchronized time reference across multiple controllers and processors, it ensures precise coordination between various automation functions in complex industrial environments.

The IMCKN02 plays a central role in aligning time-stamped events, recording the order of events, and enabling real-time control operations. By maintaining unified clock data throughout the system, it improves process diagnostics, increases reporting accuracy, and supports deterministic control behavior, especially in large-scale or safety-critical applications.

Technical Specifications

Product Applications

The IMCKN02 module is widely utilized in industries where time alignment and precision synchronization are vital. Typical applications include:

• Power Generation Facilities: Ensures accurate sequence-of-events recording during system disturbances.

• Petrochemical Plants: Coordinates distributed control units for simultaneous actions and logging.

• Oil and Gas Pipelines: Maintains event time stamps across geographically separated control nodes.

• Batch Processing: Supports time-based control steps and compliance with traceability requirements.

• Utility Grids: Enhances fault detection through synchronized data acquisition across substations.

• Manufacturing Plants: Helps in time-synchronized quality and production reporting.

Product Advantages

• High-Precision Time Coordination: Enables synchronized operation of distributed controllers and I/O systems.

• System-Wide Event Logging: Supports accurate time stamps for diagnostics and reporting.

• Failsafe Internal Oscillator: Maintains core timing functions even during external reference loss.

• Seamless Integration: Natively compatible with INFI 90 DCS infrastructure.

• Robust Design: Industrial-grade durability for use in high-demand environments.

• LED Indicators: Simplifies diagnostics and verification of sync status.

• Minimized Downtime: Time sync consistency prevents data integrity issues during event recording.

• Legacy System Support: Keeps aging INFI 90 systems aligned with modern time-critical requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: What is the core function of the IMCKN02 Clock Network Module?

   A: It synchronizes internal clocks across all INFI 90 controllers and processors to ensure consistent time-stamping and coordinated operations.

2. Q: Does the module support external time references like GPS?

   A: While the IMCKN02 primarily uses its internal oscillator, it can be interfaced with an external sync source through system configuration.

3. Q: What happens if the external time signal is lost?

   A: The module switches to its internal oscillator, maintaining basic clock functions without halting the system.

4. Q: How is the IMCKN02 installed?

   A: It is mounted in a standard ABB Bailey INFI 90 rack and connects via the system backplane.

5. Q: Can the module synchronize across multiple remote stations?

   A: Yes, when combined with INFI-NET communication, it supports wide-area time sync across remote nodes.

6. Q: Is the IMCKN02 hot-swappable?

   A: No, power should be removed before installation or replacement to avoid damage.

7. Q: How do you know the time sync is working correctly?

   A: LED indicators on the module show sync status, and system logs confirm time alignment.

8. Q: Can this module be used in safety instrumented systems?

   A: It is suitable for use in support systems where accurate time coordination is required, but safety classification depends on system integration.

9. Q: What is the sync accuracy of the internal oscillator?

   A: It typically maintains an accuracy within ±1 millisecond, sufficient for most industrial applications.

10. Q: Is periodic calibration required for the IMCKN02?

    A: Generally, no calibration is needed unless specified by site-specific reliability protocols or in the presence of significant drift over time.