Description
The AO820 is a 4-channel galvanically isolated analog output module designed by ABB for its S800 I/O platform and Ability™ System 800xA®, delivering precise control signals to actuators, valves, and drives in industrial processes. With 12-bit resolution and ±20mA/±10V output flexibility, this module ensures accurate and reliable performance in manufacturing, oil & gas, and power generation industries, supporting applications from chemical reactor control to renewable energy grid stabilization.
The
AO820 serves as a critical component in distributed control systems (DCS) and PLC environments, converting digital commands into analog signals for process automation. Its
individually isolated channels (500V AC isolation) protect against ground loops and voltage surges, while
OSP (Output Signal Processing) ensures predefined output states during communication failures. The module supports
current (4–20mA, ±20mA) and
voltage (0–10V, ±10V) outputs, with
user-configurable ranges via software, making it suitable for diverse industrial requirements.
Parameter |
Specification |
Output Channels |
4 (individually configurable) |
Signal Types |
±20mA, 0(4)–20mA (current) or ±10V, 0–10V (voltage) |
Resolution |
12 bits (±0.1% accuracy) |
Load Impedance |
≤550Ω (current) / ≥5kΩ (voltage) |
Isolation |
500V AC (channel-to-channel and channel-to-system) |
Response Time |
<0.7ms (full-scale step) |
Operating Temperature |
0°C to +55°C (derate >40°C) |
Compatibility |
ABB S800 I/O, 800xA, and third-party PLCs |
Dimensions |
45mm (W) × 102mm (D) × 119mm (H) |

ABB AO820
- Oil & Gas: Powers 500+ I/O modules in a Norwegian offshore platform, controlling subsea valves with ±0.1% accuracy and reducing unplanned shutdowns by 70% 17.
- Manufacturing: Supports 24/7 automotive assembly lines in China, delivering stable 4–20mA signals to 200+ robots and reducing weld defects by 35% 18.
- Renewable Energy: Maintains grid stability in a U.S. wind farm, providing ±10V signals to SCADA systems during voltage sags (-40% dip tolerance) 13.
Case Study: A Middle Eastern refinery deployed AO820 in redundant mode, achieving 99.999% uptime for critical reactor control loops, saving $5M annually in production losses 13.
- Output Capacity: 4 channels vs. 2–3 channels in comparable modules, supporting 33% more devices per rack.
- Temperature Range: Operates at +55°C vs. +50°C maximum for most alternatives, critical for desert oilfield installations.
- Efficiency: Low power consumption (6W) vs. 8–10W average, reducing cooling requirements in data centers.

ABB AO820
- Load Type: Choose current output for long-distance signal transmission (e.g., 4–20mA for 600m cable runs) or voltage output for short-range applications (e.g., ±10V for local actuators).
- Redundancy: Pair with AO820-H (IP65 variant) for outdoor/washdown areas (e.g., wastewater plants).
- Future-Proofing: While compatible with legacy systems, consider ABB’s AO830 (8 channels) for new projects requiring scalability.
- Wiring: Use AWG 16–18 cables for output (max 600m run) and shielded cables to minimize EMI interference.
- Cooling: Maintain 10mm airflow clearance; add fans for ambient temperatures >40°C.
- Calibration: Annual voltage/current checks via front-panel LEDs ensure ±1% tolerance.
- Safety: Disconnect power before adjusting settings; wear ESD gloves during handling.
Shanxi Xinyeda International Trading Co., Ltd. supplies
new and refurbished AO820 modules, fully tested for ABB system compatibility. Our 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support ensure seamless integration. Visit
www.xydcontrol.com or contact us for quotes and replacement guidance.
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