Description
| Model Number | T8403 |
| Manufacturer | ICS Triplex / GE Automation & Controls |
| System Platform | Triconex® Safety Instrumented System (SIS) |
| Module Type | Communication Interface Module |
| Primary Function | Dual-port 10/100 Mbps Ethernet communication |
| Network Interface | 2 x RJ-45 Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps, full/half duplex) |
| Supported Protocols | Modbus TCP/IP, OPC (via OPC DA server), DDE |
| Redundancy Support | Yes – supports redundant network configurations (e.g., ring, dual-star) |
| IP Configuration | Static IP or DHCP support |
| Security Features | Role-based access control, secure login, firewall compatibility |
| Data Throughput | Up to 100 Mbps, optimized for real-time data exchange |
| Compatibility | Works with T8110B, T8112, T8300, T8311, and other Triconex main processors |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
| Installation | 19-inch rack mount in Tricon chassis (e.g., Models 8011, 8012, 8013) – occupies one I/O slot |
| Power | Backplane-powered (no external power required) |
| Standards Compliance | IEEE 802.3, IEC 61000-4 (EMI/EMC), SIL 3 capable when used in certified system |
📦 Product Introduction
The ICS Triplex T8403 is a dual-port Ethernet communication module designed for the Triconex safety instrumented system (SIS) platform. It enables high-speed, secure, and reliable data exchange between the Triconex safety controller and external systems such as DCS (Distributed Control Systems), SCADA, HMIs, historians, asset management systems, and enterprise networks.
As a key enabler of IT/OT convergence, the T8403 supports Modbus TCP/IP, the most widely adopted open protocol in industrial automation, allowing seamless integration of safety system data into plant-wide monitoring and control environments. It is commonly used in applications requiring real-time visibility into safety system status, remote diagnostics, performance logging, and regulatory compliance reporting.
The T8403 is engineered for use in hazardous and mission-critical environments such as oil & gas, chemical processing, power generation, and refining, where uninterrupted communication and data integrity are essential for operational safety and efficiency.
ICS TRIPLEX T8403
✅ Core Advantages & Technical Highlights
1. Dual Ethernet Ports with Redundancy
- Two independent 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interfaces support redundant network topologies.
- Automatic failover ensures continuous communicationduring network faults.
- Supports ring, linear, or dual-starnetwork configurations for enhanced availability.
2. High-Speed Data Exchange
- Enables fast polling of discrete, analog, and diagnostic datafrom the Triconex controller.
- Ideal for high-frequency data logging, alarm monitoring, and event recording.
- Low-latency communication supports real-time decision-making.
3. Secure and Configurable Access
- Supports role-based user authenticationand secure login via Tristation 1131.
- Compatible with corporate firewalls, VLANs, and network segmentation.
- Prevents unauthorized write access to safety logic (read-only by default for external systems).
4. Seamless Integration with Triconex Ecosystem
- Fully compatible with T8110B, T8112, T8300, T8311, and other Triconex CPUs.
- Configured and monitored using Tristation 1131 engineering software.
- Supports hot-swap replacement– no system shutdown required during maintenance.
5. Diagnostics & Monitoring
- Built-in LEDs indicate link status, activity, and faults.
- Real-time network statistics (packets sent/received, errors) visible in Tristation.
- Logs network events and connection changes for audit and troubleshooting.
🏭 Typical Application Scenarios
| Industry | Application | Role of T8403 |
| Offshore Oil & Gas | ESD/F&G Remote Monitoring | Transmits safety system status to onshore control centers via Modbus TCP |
| Refineries | DCS Integration | Integrates Triconex BMS/ESD data into central DCS for unified HMI display |
| Power Plants | Turbine Protection Monitoring | Sends trip events and sensor data to historian and APM systems |
| Chemical Plants | Batch Safety Logging | Records interlock status and sequence-of-events for compliance |
| LNG Facilities | Central Safety Operations Center | Aggregates data from multiple Tricon racks for centralized visibility |
🔗 Related Model Recommendations
| Model | Type | Relationship to T8403 |
| T8151B | Advanced Ethernet Module | Successor to T8403 with enhanced security and OPC UA support |
| T8110B / T8311 | Main Processor | Host CPU that uses T8403 for network communication |
| T8501 | Serial Communication Module | Complements T8403 for legacy Modbus RTU devices |
| 8011 / 8012 Chassis | I/O Chassis | Physical housing for T8403 installation |
| Tristation 1131 | Engineering Software | Used to configure, monitor, and maintain T8403 |
| T9401B / T1025 | I/O Modules | Source of field data transmitted via T8403 |
| T4001 | Terminal Assembly | Used for field wiring in discrete I/O applications |
ICS TRIPLEX T8403
⚙️ Installation, Commissioning & Maintenance
Installation
- Install in any available I/O slot(Slots 4–5 in 5-slot chassis).
- Ensure chassis is powered offand ESD precautions are followed.
- Connect shielded Cat 5e or higherEthernet cables to both ports.
- Route cables away from high-voltage lines to avoid noise.
Commissioning
- Configure IP address, subnet mask, and gatewayvia Tristation 1131.
- Enable redundant network modeif applicable.
- Define Modbus register mappingfor external systems.
- Test connectivity with SCADA/DCS and validate data accuracy.
- Monitor link status and packet statisticsfor stability.
Maintenance
- Regularly check LED indicatorsfor link/activity/faults.
- Review network logsfor errors or retransmissions.
- Back up communication configurationwith system backups.
- Replace failed modules using hot-swap
- Keep firmware updated (if applicable) after testing in offline environment.
