The Yokogawa VC401-10 is a high-performance Vnet/IP Interface Card designed for use in the CENTUM VP Distributed Control System (DCS).
It is a specialized PCIe (PCI Express) card installed in Human Interface Stations (HIS) or Engineering Stations (ENG) to allow them to communicate over the high-speed Vnet/IP control network.
1. Introduction
The VC401-10 acts as the communication gateway for a PC to access the Yokogawa control network.
Unlike a standard commercial Ethernet card, the VC401 is engineered for the rigors of industrial automation.
It ensures that critical control data and alarms reach the operator stations with high priority and deterministic timing, even in high-traffic environments.
The “-10” suffix typically denotes the specific revision or style code compatible with modern workstation hardware.
2. Technical Parameter Table
| Feature | Specification |
| Model Code | VC401-10 |
| Interface Type | PCI Express (x1) |
| Communication Speed | 1 Gbps (Full Duplex) |
| Network Protocol | Vnet/IP (Yokogawa proprietary over UDP/IP) |
| Connection Port | 2 x RJ45 ports (Supports Dual Redundancy) |
| Max. Cable Length | 100 meters (using Cat5e or higher) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 / Windows Server (Specific to CENTUM VP version) |
| Current Consumption | Max 1.5 A at 3.3V DC |
| Operating Temp | 5 to 50°C |
| Weight | Approx. 0.15 kg |
3. Product Advantages and Features
Dual Redundancy: Features two independent RJ45 ports. If one network cable or switch fails, the card switches to the secondary path instantaneously without data loss.
Determinism: Optimized for the Vnet/IP protocol, ensuring that real-time process data is prioritized over general-purpose IT traffic.
Low CPU Load: The card handles the heavy lifting of network protocol processing, freeing up the PC’s main processor for operator graphics and database tasks.
Simplified Setup: Designed for “plug-and-play” integration with Yokogawa’s IT Security toolset and network builders.
High Bandwidth: The 1 Gbps speed allows for rapid screen updates and fast historical data retrieval, even in massive plant architectures.
4. Application Cases
Central Control Rooms: Installed in operator consoles to provide a real-time view of plant-wide operations.
Engineering Stations: Used by engineers to download new control logic or configurations to Field Control Stations (FCS) via the network.
Plant Historians: Providing the data link for Exaquantum or other high-level data logging software to pull real-time process variables.
System Integration: Connecting Third-Party subsystems (via a PC-based gateway) to the primary CENTUM VP control bus.
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5. Related Models & Same Series
The VC401-10 is part of the evolution of Yokogawa’s bus interface cards.
Other Models in the Same Series
VF702: The predecessor model used for the older V net (not IP-based) coax or fiber systems.
VI702: A related interface card for different PCI bus architectures (legacy).
VC401-11: A newer revision or variant often released to maintain compatibility with updated PC motherboard chipsets.
Related Network Components
Layer 2 / Layer 3 Switches: Specifically approved industrial switches (like those from Cisco or Hirschmann) used to build the Vnet/IP fabric.
AFV30 / AFV40: Field Control Stations that communicate directly with the VC401 via the Vnet/IP network.
VI401: The Vnet/IP Interface Unit used on the controller side rather than the PC side.
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