The ABB 560CMU80 is a high-performance Communication Unit belonging to the RTU560 product family. It acts as the central intelligence hub for Substation Automation and Telecontrol systems, responsible for processing data from multiple connected I/O modules and facilitating secure, high-speed communication with higher-level control centers or SCADA systems. This 560CMU80 unit is designed for extreme reliability in harsh utility environments, supporting a wide range of protocols and advanced cyber-security features.
⚙️ Technical Specifications
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Part Numbers: 1KGT008800R0002 / 1KGT008810R61
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Product Series: RTU560 Substation Automation
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Function: Central Processing and Communication Unit (CMU)
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Processor: High-performance 32-bit CPU for real-time data handling
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Communication Ports: Multiple RS-232/RS-485 serial ports and 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports
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Dimensions: Standard DIN-rail mountable module (approx. 4.00″ x 6.00″ x 4.50″)
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Weight: Approximately 1.2 – 1.8 lbs
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Country of Origin: Germany
🌐 Application Areas
The 560CMU80 is engineered for critical infrastructure:
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⚡ Substation Automation: Acts as a gateway between secondary protection relays and the station HMI.
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🛡️ Network Security: Provides encrypted communication links for remote monitoring (DNP3/IEC 60870-5-104/IEC 61850).
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🏭 Industrial Control: Centralized data collection for transmission and distribution networks.
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🔄 Protocol Conversion: Seamlessly translates legacy serial protocols into modern IP-based communication.
📖 Operating Instructions
Installation and setup require familiarity with the RTU560 configuration tools:
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Mounting: Snap the unit onto a standard 35mm DIN rail. Ensure there is at least 50mm of clearance above and below for adequate airflow and cooling.
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Wiring: Use the provided terminal blocks for DC power supply (typically 24V or 48V/60V depending on the power supply module used). Connect Ethernet and serial cables according to the project’s communication diagram.
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Configuration: Utilize the RTUtil560 software to define the device’s logic, signal mappings, and communication parameters.
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Booting: Once powered, the status LEDs will indicate boot progress. Green indicates normal operation; flashing red or amber signals a configuration error or hardware fault.
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Firmware: Always keep the unit updated with the latest signed firmware from ABB to maintain current security patches.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between these two part numbers (1KGT008800R0002 vs 1KGT008810R61)? These numbers typically represent different manufacturing revisions or factory configurations. The “R61” variant often implies a specific firmware pre-load or a revision update that offers improved processing capability or extended memory compared to the original “R0002”. Always check the label on the chassis to confirm the exact model revision in use.
Does this unit support IEC 61850? Yes, the 560CMU80 is fully capable of acting as an IEC 61850 client or server, making it a standard choice for modern digital substation upgrades.
How is the device reset to factory settings? Physical resetting requires a special configuration file upload or a specific hardware jumper sequence defined in the manual. Do not attempt a reset without a backup of the current .rtr configuration file.
What is the “CMU” role in the rack? The CMU is the “brain.” It manages the bus traffic between the power supply module and the various I/O modules, ensuring that all data packets are timestamped and transmitted to the SCADA host with microsecond precision.
📋 Recommended Similar Models
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560CMU81 (Extended memory version of the 560CMU80)
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560CMU82 (High-performance variant for complex signal loads)
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RTU560 560CID01 (Communication interface board)
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560PWR94 (Power supply unit for the RTU560 rack)
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560CIG10 (GPRS/GSM communication module)
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560PID03 (Processing and interface unit)
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RTU540 (Compact alternative for smaller substations)
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ABB REB670 (Combined protection and communication device)

