One IS Earthing Module is required whenever the rack contains any internal barrier I/O module. It provides the intrinsically safe earth connection through the 3500 backplane, so it should be part of the rack design from the beginning.

It occupies one dedicated I/O/monitor position, leaving up to 13 monitor positions in the standard rack. Reserve that position before finalizing the monitor count or cabinet layout.

Yes, the manufacturer permits both module types in the same rack when the safe-area and hazardous-area wiring separation rules are maintained. Grouping barrier modules together also makes installation and maintenance access easier.

Internal barrier I/O modules add approximately 50 mm to rack depth, and the manufacturer states that a standard rack with barriers will not fit a 400 mm cabinet. A 600 mm cabinet or the documented bulkhead arrangement should be evaluated instead.

The earthing module does not remove the TMR restriction. Internal barrier I/O modules are not permitted with Triple Modular Redundant rack options because connecting one transducer to multiple I/O inputs would compromise the intrinsically safe system.

Use a general-purpose rack position that preserves the required safe-area and hazardous-area wiring separation and remains accessible online. When it sits between barrier I/O modules, allow enough adjacent space to avoid disturbing nearby wiring during maintenance.

Plan the appropriate internal barrier I/O modules, the dedicated earthing-module position, cabinet depth, wiring segregation and the applicable Rack Configuration software revision. Revision 2.3 or later is required for the listed monitor types that use software enablement.