Technical Specifications

FAQ

1. What is the main function of the ABB Bailey NTCF01?
The NTCF01 is an optic-to-optic fiber termination unit designed for Bailey Infi 90 and Net 90 communication systems. It provides the interface between communication modules such as the INNIS01 or INLIM03 and the fiber-optic transmission medium. Unlike a fiber-to-electrical termination unit, the NTCF01 uses optical connections on both communication sides and is transparent to the communication protocol.

2. Which Bailey communication modules can be used with the NTCF01?
The NTCF01 is primarily associated with the INNIS01 Network Interface Slave for INFINET applications and the INLIM03 Loop Interface Module for Plant Loop applications. The termination unit is installed at the communication node and provides the required optical interface between the module and the fiber network.

3. What type of fiber optic cable does the NTCF01 use?
The NTCF01 is designed for multimode fiber-optic communication and is commonly used with 62.5/125 μm fiber. The optical connection uses ST-type connectors. During installation, the fiber connectors should be kept clean and protected from dust or contamination because connector contamination can significantly reduce optical signal quality.

4. What communication speeds are supported by the NTCF01?
The NTCF01 family supports the communication rates used by Bailey Plant Loop and INFINET systems. Plant Loop communication operates at approximately 500 kbit/s, while INFINET applications can operate at 2 Mbit/s or 10 Mbit/s. The actual communication rate depends on the associated communication module and system configuration.

5. What is the maximum communication distance of an NTCF01 fiber link?
With good-quality fiber and an appropriate system configuration, the distance between communication nodes can reach approximately 3 km. The actual achievable distance depends on fiber attenuation, connector losses, splices, optical power budget and the configuration of the communication network. Excessive loss in any section of the optical path can reduce the available communication margin.

6. What should be checked if the NTCF01 loses fiber communication?
Start by checking the optical link status LED and the power supply. Then inspect both fiber connectors for contamination, loose connections or physical damage. The fiber cable should also be checked for excessive bending, breaks or poor splices. If the optical power is insufficient, the complete fiber path should be tested rather than replacing the NTCF01 immediately. The associated INNIS01 or INLIM03 module and termination-unit cable should also be checked.

7. What do the NTCF01 status LEDs indicate?
The NTCF01 uses several LEDs to provide information about operating and hardware conditions. The motherboard indicators can show on-line or bypass status, backup-battery condition and battery-charger status. The daughterboard optical-link indicator provides information about the received optical signal. If the optical receiver does not receive sufficient optical power, the corresponding link indicator can indicate a communication problem. These LEDs are useful for distinguishing power, battery and optical-link faults during troubleshooting.

8. What should be checked when replacing an ABB Bailey NTCF01?
Before replacement, record the existing jumper positions, cable connections and system configuration. Power and grounding connections should be identified before disconnecting the faulty unit. The replacement NTCF01 should be configured with the same applicable jumper settings as the original unit, and all fiber connectors should be cleaned before reconnection. After installation, verify the +24 VDC supply, communication-module connection, optical-link indicators and overall Plant Loop or INFINET communication status. For on-line replacement, the backup batteries and applicable system procedures should also be checked before removing the existing unit.