ABB RTAC Series Modules RTAC-01

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

ABB RTAC Series Technical Notes

The Evolution of RTAC Series Architecture

The RTAC series was developed as part of ABB's modular drive option board ecosystem, designed to slot into the option board slots of ACS series variable frequency drives (ACS550, ACS800, ACS880) and selected DCS800 DC drive platforms. Early iterations focused on TTL-level incremental encoder support (A/B/Z channels), while subsequent revisions introduced HTL compatibility, expanded supply voltage tolerance (5V–24V), and improved noise immunity for harsh industrial environments.

Compatibility across drive generations is a known sourcing challenge: RTAC-01 boards designed for ACS800 slot configurations are not directly interchangeable with ACS880 option slots without adapter frames. Procurement teams managing multi-generation fleets must verify the target drive's option slot type (Type A, B, or C) before ordering. DriveKNMS maintains cross-reference records for all known RTAC variants to prevent mis-procurement.

Q: How are RFQ terms confirmed?
A: Quantity, required condition, documentation needs, destination and sourcing route are confirmed during RFQ review before quotation.

RTAC Series Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

The following SKUs represent the core RTAC series module range. Each entry reflects a distinct hardware variant with specific encoder input compatibility, supply voltage, and target drive platform. All models listed have been verified against ABB technical documentation and procurement records.

Encoder Interface Modules (Incremental / HTL / TTL)

• RTAC-01: Pulse encoder interface for ACS800/DCS800; supports TTL/HTL incremental encoders, A/B/Z inputs, 5–24V supply.
• RTAC-02: Enhanced encoder interface with extended HTL input range; improved EMC shielding for high-noise environments.
• RTAC-03: Resolver interface variant; designed for brushless resolver feedback in high-temperature motor applications.
• RTAC-11: Dual-channel encoder interface; supports two independent encoder inputs for master-follower drive configurations.
• RTAC-12: High-resolution encoder interface; supports encoders up to 65,536 PPR for precision positioning applications.

Resolver & Absolute Encoder Variants

• RTAC-21: SSI absolute encoder interface; supports Gray code and binary output formats, 13–25 bit resolution.
• RTAC-22: EnDat 2.1/2.2 absolute encoder interface; compatible with Heidenhain EnDat protocol encoders.
• RTAC-23: Hiperface absolute encoder interface; for Sick/Stegmann Hiperface protocol devices.
• RTAC-31: Resolver-to-digital interface; onboard R/D converter, 16-bit resolution, for ACS800 platform.
• RTAC-32: Dual resolver interface; supports redundant resolver feedback for safety-critical drive applications.

Communication & Diagnostic Variants

• RTAC-41: Encoder simulation output module; regenerates encoder signals for downstream control systems.
• RTAC-42: Encoder signal splitter/repeater; distributes one encoder input to multiple drive or controller inputs.
• RTAC-51: Fieldbus-linked encoder interface; transmits encoder data over PROFIBUS DP for remote monitoring.
• RTAC-61: Integrated encoder interface with onboard diagnostics; LED fault indication, short-circuit protection.
• RTAC-71: High-voltage isolated encoder interface; galvanic isolation up to 1500V for hazardous area installations.

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete RTAC Series Parts

The RTAC series presents a classic industrial spare parts dilemma: the drives they support remain operational for decades, but the option boards themselves are subject to component-level obsolescence. Capacitor aging, FPGA firmware lock, and discontinued IC packages are the three primary failure modes that render RTAC boards non-repairable through standard channels.

DriveKNMS operates a dedicated sourcing network for ABB drive option boards, including the full RTAC range. Our inventory strategy combines:

Quality Control for the RTAC Series Range

DriveKNMS applies the following test protocol to all RTAC units prior to dispatch: