ABB Relay Protection Reset

A factory reset on ABB protection relays restores all default settings and restarts the device, typically taking 1–3 minutes.

General Procedure

1. Administrator Access Required: Only users with administrator rights can perform a factory reset on ABB relays such as REF611 and REF615. Ensure you have the necessary credentials before proceeding .
2. Using Local HMI:
   • Navigate to Main Menu → Configuration → General → Factory Setting.
   • Press Enter, set the value to Activate using the Up/Down arrows, and press Enter again.
   • When prompted with “Activate factory settings?”, confirm by selecting Yes and pressing Enter .
   • The relay will restore default settings and restart. Confirmation appears on the display for a few seconds .
3. Using Software Tools (PCM600 or 630SUT):
   • For REF611 or REF615, you can also initiate a factory reset via PCM600 or WHMI.
   • For REF630, the 630SUT Lite software is used to prepare the relay for communication and perform the reset .
4. Duration and Confirmation:
   • The reset process usually takes 1–3 minutes.
   • After completion, the relay restarts and displays a confirmation message indicating that factory settings have been restored .

Important Considerations

• Parameter Overwrite: All previously configured settings will be overwritten with default values. Avoid unnecessary resets to prevent unintended tripping of protection functions .
• Protection Function Trip Risk: Sudden changes in settings during normal operation may cause the relay to trip.
• Password Management: Local passwords can be changed via LHMI, while remote passwords can be managed via LHMI, WHMI, or PCM600. Ensure you have access to reset or recover administrator passwords if needed .

Model-Specific Notes

• REF611: Reset can be done via LHMI, WHMI, or PCM600. Administrator rights are mandatory .
• REF630: Requires 630SUT Lite software for communication setup and reset .
• REF615: Similar procedure to REF611, with emphasis on secure network connection for software-based resets . Performing a factory reset is a powerful tool for troubleshooting or reconfiguration, but it should be done carefully to avoid disrupting protection functions or losing critical settings.