The Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 is a ruggedized redundant communication module, a vital part of Emerson’s Ovation distributed control system—a platform celebrated for its reliability in harsh industrial environments. Unlike basic communication modules that offer single-path data transmission, this module is engineered with dual independent communication channels, making it the ideal choice for applications where downtime is simply not an option.
Model KJ3242X1-BA1
Brand Emerson
Type Redundant Communication Module
Communication Channels 2 independent Ethernet channels
Data Transfer Rate 500 Mbps per channel
Operating Temperature -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
Mounting Ovation I/O rack (4U form factor)
Dimensions 240 mm x 115 mm x 170 mm (W x H x D)
Weight 1.8 kg
Supported Protocols Modbus TCP/IP, DNP3, Ovation Link, Ethernet/IP
Certifications IEC 60079 (hazardous areas), UL 1604, ATEX, DNV GL (marine/offshore)
Redundancy Switchover Time ≤10 ms
Power Supply 24 V DC (dual redundant inputs)
Environmental Rating IP65 front panel, NEMA 4X compliant
The Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 is a ruggedized redundant communication module, a vital part of Emerson’s Ovation distributed control system—a platform celebrated for its reliability in harsh industrial environments. Unlike basic communication modules that offer single-path data transmission, this module is engineered with dual independent communication channels, making it the ideal choice for applications where downtime is simply not an option.
KJ3242X1-BA1
It occupies a critical role in Ovation system architecture, acting as a redundant data bridge between the primary controller, I/O modules, and peripheral devices such as emergency shutdown systems (ESDs) and remote monitoring stations. What distinguishes the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 is its intelligent redundancy management: both communication channels operate simultaneously, with the module constantly comparing data integrity across paths to ensure consistency. If a fault is detected in one channel—whether due to cable damage, electromagnetic interference, or hardware failure—the module automatically shifts to the secondary path in under 10 milliseconds, with zero data loss. This seamless failover is invaluable in industries like offshore energy, where even a 1-second disruption can compromise safety protocols. Its deep integration with Ovation’s diagnostic tools also allows engineers to track channel health in real time, enabling proactive maintenance before issues escalate.
KJ3242X1-BA1
Main features and advantages:
The Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 delivers impressive performance with a data transfer rate of up to 500 Mbps per channel, ensuring that large volumes of sensor data—such as multi-point pressure readings from pipeline networks or flow rates from water treatment filters—are transmitted without latency. Its hardware design is built for harsh environments: a corrosion-resistant stainless-steel chassis with IP65-rated front panels, capable of withstanding direct exposure to water jets and dust ingress—critical for outdoor installations in offshore or water treatment facilities.
Compatibility is a key strength, as it integrates seamlessly with all Ovation controller models and supports industry-standard protocols including Modbus TCP/IP, DNP3, and Ovation Link. This versatility allows it to connect with third-party equipment such as SCADA systems and asset management software, eliminating the need for custom interface development in mixed-vendor environments. For example, in water treatment plants, it can simultaneously transmit data to both the Ovation DCS and a municipal water quality database, ensuring compliance reporting is always up to date.
Long-term reliability is engineered into every component. The module operates efficiently in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 70°C, making it suitable for both Arctic LNG facilities and desert-based processing plants. Its passive cooling design, using heat-dissipating fins instead of fans, reduces moving parts that could fail in high-vibration environments like offshore platforms. With a mean time between failures (MTBF) exceeding 350,000 hours, it’s built to outlast the typical 15-year lifecycle of industrial control systems, minimizing replacement costs and unplanned downtime.
KJ3242X1-BA1
Technical specifications:
Model KJ3242X1-BA1
Brand Emerson
Type Redundant Communication Module
Communication Channels 2 independent Ethernet channels
Data Transfer Rate 500 Mbps per channel
Operating Temperature -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
Mounting Ovation I/O rack (4U form factor)
Dimensions 240 mm x 115 mm x 170 mm (W x H x D)
Weight 1.8 kg
Supported Protocols Modbus TCP/IP, DNP3, Ovation Link, Ethernet/IP
Certifications IEC 60079 (hazardous areas), UL 1604, ATEX, DNV GL (marine/offshore)
Redundancy Switchover Time ≤10 ms
Power Supply 24 V DC (dual redundant inputs)
Environmental Rating IP65 front panel, NEMA 4X compliant
Contact Us Phone:+86 16626708626 WeChat/WhatsApp:+86 16626708626 Email: 3772179818@qq.com
KJ3242X1-BA1
Application areas:
In the high-stakes realm of liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing plants, where even a momentary lapse in data transmission between cryogenic pumps and control systems can lead to catastrophic pressure buildups, reliable communication modules are the foundation of safe operations. Similarly, in large-scale water treatment facilities, where precise coordination between filtration systems and chemical dosing units is critical to meeting regulatory standards for water purity, unbroken data flow is non-negotiable. These industrial environments, along with offshore drilling platforms, depend on components that can serve as the communication backbone of distributed control systems (DCS), ensuring that critical operational data moves seamlessly between field devices, controllers, and monitoring stations.
This is where the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 excels. Used in industrial automation across harsh and mission-critical process environments, it functions as a redundant communication interface within Emerson’s Ovation DCS, providing a failsafe data pathway that minimizes operational risks. In LNG plants, it ensures that temperature and pressure readings from -162°C storage tanks reach the main controller without delay, enabling rapid adjustments to prevent equipment damage. On offshore platforms, its rugged design withstands salt spray and extreme vibration, ensuring that data from subsea wellhead sensors is transmitted reliably to surface control systems. The Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 is trusted because it doesn’t just carry data—it does so with the redundancy and resilience required in environments where communication failures can threaten safety, compliance, and profitability. Whether integrated into new DCS installations or retrofitting aging systems, it’s a critical component that engineers rely on for uncompromising connectivity.
KJ3242X1-BA1
Related products:
Emerson KJ3241X1-BK1 – Primary communication module that pairs with the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 to create a fully redundant communication network.
Emerson KJ2001X1-BA1 – Ovation controller that relies on the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 for redundant data transmission to field devices.
Emerson KJ1501X1-BC1 – Analog input module whose sensor data is routed through the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 to ensure fault-tolerant transmission.
Emerson SK-P302 – Power distribution unit that provides dual redundant power inputs to the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1.
Emerson 14204-01-01 – Armored Ethernet cable designed to withstand harsh environments, ideal for connecting the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 to remote switches.
Emerson VE4001S1-BA1 – Remote HMI terminal that receives data via the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 for safe area monitoring in hazardous locations.
Emerson 3500/42M – Machinery protection system that uses the Emerson KJ3242X1-BA1 to transmit vibration data with redundant paths.
KJ3242X1-BA1
Installation and maintenance:
Before installing the EmersonKJ3242X1-BA1, verify that the Ovation I/O rack backplane firmware is version 7.5 or higher to support the module’s redundant communication features. Ensure the mounting surface is flat and free of debris, as uneven mounting can stress internal components in high-vibration environments. For offshore or outdoor installations, apply the optional anti-corrosion coating (part number 1230-AC) to the chassis before mounting, and use stainless-steel hardware rated for saltwater exposure. When routing cables, separate the two communication channels by at least 300 mm to prevent cross-interference, and terminate each channel to independent Ethernet switches for true redundancy.
For maintenance, conduct bi-monthly checks of the module’s status LEDs to confirm both channels are active—steady green indicates normal operation, while a flashing amber light signals a channel fault requiring investigation. Use Ovation’s Redundancy Diagnostic Tool quarterly to log switchover events and latency metrics; consistent switchover times exceeding 10 ms may indicate degraded cable performance or connector wear. In coastal environments, inspect the chassis for salt buildup every six months and clean with a freshwater rinse followed by air drying. While the module is designed for minimal upkeep, replace the input power fuses every 5 years as a preventive measure, using only Emerson-approved fuses (part number F320-10A) to maintain safety certifications.
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Email: 3772179818@qq.com
Phone: +86 16626708626
