WAGO I/O IPC 758-873 OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSEL DP CONTROLLER SN 142362015

WAGO I/O IPC 758-873 OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSEL DP CONTROLLER SN 142362015

1. Overall System Context: DP Controller on an Offshore Support Vessel

• Dynamic Positioning (DP) System: A computer-controlled system that automatically maintains a vessel’s position and heading using its own propellers and thrusters. It is essential for offshore operations like platform supply, cable-laying, dive support, and wind farm maintenance.
• DP Controller: The “brain” of the DP system. It processes data from position reference systems (GPS, gyrocompasses, wind sensors) and calculates the required thrust to maintain position.
• The Role of this WAGO Module: The WAGO IPC 758-873 is almost certainly the central Industrial PC (IPC) or a key processing unit within a larger WAGO I/O system that forms the hardware platform for the DP controller’s automation layer. It gathers sensor data and outputs control signals to thrusters and propulsion.

2. Product Breakdown: WAGO IPC 758-873

• Manufacturer: WAGO GmbH & Co. KG, a German leader in electrical interconnection and industrial automation technology, renowned for robust and reliable components suitable for harsh environments.
• Product Type: Industrial PC (IPC) or Programmable Fieldbus Controller (PFC) from WAGO’s 750 series. The “IPC” designation indicates it’s a compact, rugged industrial computer.
• Key Characteristics (Typical for this series in maritime/offshore use):
  • Ruggedized Design: Built to withstand the harsh offshore environment—vibration, shock, wide temperature fluctuations, and salty, humid air.
  • Processing Power: Features an x86-based processor (like an Intel Atom or Celeron) capable of running real-time automation software.
  • Operating System: Typically runs a real-time operating system, often CODESYS Runtime or a similar IEC 61131-3 compliant PLC runtime, which is standard in marine automation for deterministic control.
  • I/O Connectivity: Serves as the master controller for a distributed I/O system. It connects via fieldbus (e.g., PROFIBUS DP, CANopen) or industrial Ethernet (e.g., EtherCAT, PROFINET) to remote WAGO I/O terminals that interface directly with sensors (position, wind, heading) and actuators (thruster controls, valve drives).
  • Certifications: Crucial for offshore use. This specific variant (indicated by “-873” suffix and “OFFSHORE” in description) would hold critical marine certifications such as:
    • DNV GL / DNV Type Approval
    • ABS (American Bureau of Shipping)
    • LR (Lloyd’s Register)
    • GL (Germanischer Lloyd – now part of DNV)
    • It likely complies with IEC 60945 (“Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems”) for EMC and environmental testing.

3. Interpretation of Your Query Details

• “OFFSHORE SUPPORT VESSEL DP CONTROLLER”: Confirms the application. This is not a generic industrial controller but one configured and certified for a specific, safety-critical marine function.
• “SN 142362015”: The Serial Number. This is unique to this specific unit. It is used for:
  • Tracking manufacturing batch and date.
  • Referencing original test certificates.
  • Ordering exact replacements.
  • Technical support from WAGO or the system integrator.