Fischer & Porter 698B Series Modules

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

Fischer & Porter 698B Series: Comprehensive Module Range and Technical Overview

The Fischer & Porter 698B series represents a mature, field-proven line of electromagnetic flow measurement and process control modules deployed across global heavy industry. Installations span petrochemical refineries, nuclear power auxiliary systems, chemical processing plants, and municipal water treatment facilities. The series established Fischer & Porter's position as a primary instrumentation supplier for continuous-process industries requiring high-accuracy, loop-powered flow measurement with robust signal conditioning. In facilities where process uptime is measured in years rather than quarters, the 698B platform remains embedded in control architectures that cannot be economically replaced without full DCS migration projects. Installed base density is highest in North American and Western European facilities commissioned between 1985 and 2005.

The Evolution of 698B Architecture

The 698B series originated from Fischer & Porter's earlier 10D1400 and 10D1500 electromagnetic flowmeter transmitter platforms, which used analog signal processing with discrete component amplifier stages. The 698B generation introduced microprocessor-based signal conditioning, replacing analog zero/span potentiometers with digitally stored calibration coefficients. This transition occurred in two phases: early 698B units (circa 1983–1990) retained hybrid analog front-ends with digital output formatting, while later revisions (post-1991) moved to fully digital signal chains with HART protocol overlay capability on select models.

Backplane compatibility within the 698B family is version-dependent. Modules sharing the same mechanical form factor (3U rack, DIN-rail, or panel-mount variants) are not universally interchangeable due to firmware-level addressing differences between sub-series (698B1xx, 698B2xx, 698B3xx). Integrators sourcing replacement modules must verify the sub-series suffix and hardware revision code stamped on the module label. Cross-compatibility between 698B and the successor Fischer & Porter / ABB 10D series requires signal converter intermediaries in most configurations. The 698B series is formally classified as End-of-Life (EOL) by ABB (which absorbed Fischer & Porter in 1993), meaning no new production runs are initiated; all supply is sourced from tested surplus, refurbished stock, or decommissioned plant equipment.

698B Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

The following SKUs represent verified, commonly encountered models within the Fischer & Porter 698B series. Classification follows functional module type.

Flow Transmitter / Signal Conditioning Modules

• 698B179U01: Electromagnetic flow transmitter module, 115VAC excitation, analog 4–20mA output, panel-mount housing.
• 698B179U02: Electromagnetic flow transmitter, 230VAC excitation variant, dual-range output scaling, panel-mount.
• 698B179U03: Flow transmitter with HART communication overlay, 4–20mA loop, field-mount enclosure.
• 698B180U01: Signal converter module, converts pulsed flow signal to analog 4–20mA, DIN-rail mount.
• 698B181U01: Dual-channel flow signal conditioner, supports two independent sensor inputs, rack-mount format.
• 698B182U01: High-frequency pulsed output transmitter module, for custody transfer applications, 24VDC powered.

Power Supply Modules

• 698B200U01: 24VDC regulated power supply module for 698B rack systems, 5A output capacity.
• 698B201U01: Redundant power supply module, hot-swap capable, for critical process applications.
• 698B202U01: AC/DC converter module, 115/230VAC input, 24VDC output, DIN-rail mount.

I/O Interface Modules

• 698B220U01: Analog input module, 8-channel, 4–20mA, for integration with DCS analog input cards.
• 698B221U01: Discrete input module, 16-channel, 24VDC, for valve position and status feedback.
• 698B222U01: Analog output module, 4-channel, 4–20mA, for setpoint transmission to final control elements.
• 698B223U01: Discrete output module, 8-channel, relay contact, 250VAC/5A rated.

Communication & Adapter Modules

• 698B240U01: RS-232/RS-485 serial communication adapter, Modbus RTU protocol, for SCADA integration.
• 698B241U01: HART multiplexer module, supports up to 16 HART devices on a single host port.
• 698B242U01: Fieldbus gateway module, converts 698B analog signals to PROFIBUS DP for modern DCS integration.

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete 698B Parts

ABB's formal EOL declaration for the Fischer & Porter 698B series means OEM factory supply is unavailable. DriveKNMS maintains a dedicated inventory program for 698B lifecycle extension, sourcing modules through three primary channels: decommissioned plant equipment from refinery and chemical plant shutdowns, tested surplus from instrumentation distributors, and refurbished units processed through our in-house repair facility. All 698B modules offered by DriveKNMS are individually tested against original Fischer & Porter factory test specifications prior to shipment. For facilities operating under long-term maintenance contracts (LTMA) or asset integrity programs, DriveKNMS can provide consignment stock arrangements, ensuring on-site availability of critical 698B spares without capital commitment. Customers requiring documentation — including original Fischer & Porter instruction bulletins, wiring diagrams, and calibration procedures — can request copies alongside hardware orders.

Quality Control for the 698B Range

The 698B series presents specific quality control challenges due to its hybrid analog-digital architecture and age-related component degradation. DriveKNMS applies a structured test protocol to all 698B modules prior to dispatch. Power supply modules are load-tested at 100% rated current for a minimum burn-in period of 24 hours, with output voltage stability measured under thermal cycling. Signal conditioning and transmitter modules undergo functional verification using calibrated flow signal simulators, with output accuracy confirmed against the module's original specification (typically ±0.5% of full scale). Communication adapter modules are tested for protocol compliance using dedicated Modbus and HART test masters. Backplane connectors — a known failure point on aged 698B rack assemblies — are inspected under magnification and cleaned or replaced as required. All test results are documented and available to customers on request.

For sourcing inquiries, technical questions, or bulk spare parts requirements for the Fischer & Porter 698B series:

• Email: [email protected]
• WhatsApp: +86 18359293191
• Web: driveknms.com