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The SPA-ZC 400 (SPA-ZC400EM) is a high-availability communication gateway developed by ABB to integrate RE_500 series protection relays into modern Ethernet-based substation automation systems. It converts legacy SPA serial communication into standardized Ethernet protocols, enabling seamless interoperability with IEC 61850, Modbus TCP/IP, and SPA over TCP/IP networks.
Designed for digital substation retrofits, the SPA-ZC 400 allows utilities to extend the service life of proven protection hardware while adopting advanced SCADA, GOOSE messaging, and centralized disturbance analysis—without replacing existing relays.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Variant | SPA-ZC400EM |
| Function | Protocol Converter / Ethernet Communication Interface |
| Supported Protocols | IEC 61850-8-1, Modbus TCP/IP, SPA over TCP/IP |
| Ethernet Interface | RJ45 (Copper) or LC (Fiber Optic) |
| Device Communication | Dual-port SPA / LON® |
| Supported Fiber Types | Plastic Optical Fiber (POF), Hard-Clad Silica (HCS), Glass Fiber |
| Configuration & Engineering | IEC 61850 data modeling, GOOSE configuration |
| Advanced Functions | Disturbance recorder file upload via FTP / IEC 61850 |
| Power Supply | Powered directly from host RE_500 relay |
| Environmental Protection | Optional conformal coating |
The SPA-ZC 400 is widely deployed in medium- and high-voltage substations, particularly for:
Digital Substation Retrofits – Migrating SPA-based relays to IEC 61850 architectures
SCADA Integration – Ethernet-based supervision of legacy RE_500 protection terminals
GOOSE Messaging – High-speed horizontal communication between protection devices
Centralized Disturbance Analysis – Remote retrieval of fault records and event data
Commonly integrated with:
REF 541 / REF 543
REM 543
RET 541
What is the difference between SPA-ZC 400 and SPA-ZC 402?
The SPA-ZC 400 is intended for RE_500 series relays, while the SPA-ZC 402 is designed for REF 610 and selected other relay families.
Does the SPA-ZC 400 support Ethernet redundancy (PRP/HSR)?
No. It provides a single Ethernet interface. Redundancy must be implemented using external managed switches or newer ABB gateways.
How is IEC 61850 mapping performed?
ABB supplies a Connectivity Package and Communication Engineering Tool (CET) to map internal SPA data points to IEC 61850 Logical Nodes and Data Objects.