Description
IC660BBD022: Product Overview
The GE IC660BBD022 is a 16-channel source I/O module belonging to the Genius Series (formerly produced by GE Fanuc, now managed by Emerson Automation). It is engineered for discrete signal acquisition and control in industrial automation systems, where reliable communication between field devices (sensors, actuators) and controllers (PLC/PAC) is critical. The module acts as a “data gateway,” converting raw sensor signals (e.g., from proximity switches, relays) into digital data for the controller and transmitting control commands to actuators (e.g., solenoid valves, motors).
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “distributed I/O node” in Genius architectures, the IC660BBD022 performs two primary functions:
-
Signal Acquisition: Receives 24/48 VDC signals from field sensors (e.g., a proximity switch detecting a part in a manufacturing line) and conditions them for transmission to the controller.
-
Control Execution: Sends 24/48 VDC control signals to actuators (e.g., a solenoid valve opening to release a part) based on commands from the PLC/PAC.
Core Functionality:
-
Configurable Channels: Each of the 16 channels can be independently configured as an input (to read sensor signals) or output (to send control signals). This flexibility allows engineers to adapt the module to diverse applications (e.g., combining input channels for sensor arrays and output channels for actuator control).
-
Genius Protocol Support: Uses GE’s proprietary Genius protocol for high-speed, reliable communication with GE Fanuc/Emerson controllers. The protocol supports daisy-chain networking, allowing multiple I/O modules to be connected in a linear topology (max distance: 7500 feet) for scalable system design.
-
Advanced Diagnostics: Features built-in diagnostic tools to detect and report faults (e.g., short circuits, overloads, open wires, overtemperature). For example, if an output channel experiences a short circuit, the module will automatically shut down the affected channel and trigger an alarm on the controller, minimizing downtime.
-
Robust Protection: Includes electronic short-circuit protection, overcurrent protection, and thermal shutdown to safeguard the module and connected devices from damage. The 1500 V DC isolation between blocks prevents ground loops and electromagnetic interference (EMI) in harsh industrial environments.
IC660BBD022
Technical Specifications
|
Parameter
|
Specification
|
|---|---|
|
Model Number
|
IC660BBD022 (Variant of Genius Series)
|
|
Manufacturer
|
GE Fanuc (Emerson Automation)
|
|
Product Type
|
16-Channel Source I/O Module (Discrete)
|
|
Series
|
Genius I/O (Distributed I/O System)
|
|
Channels
|
16 (configurable as input/output/tristate input)
|
|
Voltage
|
24/48 VDC (operating range: 18–30 VDC)
|
|
Current
|
2 A per output channel (max surge: 10 A for 10 ms)
|
|
Input Processing Time
|
1.7 ms (plus configurable filter: 5–100 ms)
|
|
Output Turn-On Delay
|
1 ms
|
|
Protocol
|
Genius (supports daisy-chain networking)
|
|
Isolation
|
1500 V DC (block-to-block, 1 minute)
|
|
Operating Temperature
|
0°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
|
|
Storage Temperature
|
-40°C to +100°C
|
|
Humidity
|
5–95% non-condensing
|
|
Dimensions
|
8.83″ (H) × 3.56″ (W) × 4.42″ (D) (22.44 cm × 9.05 cm × 11.23 cm)
|
|
Weight
|
~1.8 kg (4 lbs)
|
|
Certifications
|
CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
|
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Flexible Configuration:
The ability to configure each channel as input or output reduces the need for multiple module types, saving space and cost in control cabinets. For example, a manufacturing line can use the same module for both sensor input (detecting parts) and actuator output (controlling solenoids), simplifying inventory management.
2. Reliable Communication:
The Genius protocol ensures fast, error-free data transmission between the module and controller, even in noisy industrial environments. Daisy-chain networking allows for easy expansion—adding more I/O modules to the system only requires connecting them in series, reducing wiring complexity.
3. Advanced Diagnostics:
Built-in fault detection minimizes downtime by alerting operators to issues before they escalate. For instance, if an output channel fails due to a short circuit, the module will immediately shut down the channel and send an alarm to the controller, allowing technicians to fix the problem quickly.
4. Robust Design:
The module’s industrial-grade construction (0°C to +60°C operating temperature, 1500 V isolation) ensures reliable performance in harsh environments (e.g., factories, refineries). The compact size (8.83″ × 3.56″ × 4.42″) allows for easy installation in crowded control cabinets.

IC660BBD022
Typical Applications
The GE IC660BBD022 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
-
Manufacturing:
-
Monitors proximity switches, limit switches, and photoelectric sensors on assembly lines, sending data to the PLC for process control (e.g., stopping a conveyor belt when a part is in place).
-
Controls solenoid valves, relays, and motors for automated machinery (e.g., opening a valve to release a part from a mold).
-
-
Energy:
-
Interfaces with sensors (e.g., temperature, pressure) in power plants, transmitting data to the DCS for monitoring and control.
-
Controls actuators (e.g., circuit breakers, pumps) in substations, ensuring reliable power distribution.
-
-
Water/Wastewater:
-
Monitors level sensors in tanks and flow meters in pipes, sending data to the SCADA system for process optimization.
-
Controls pumps and valves for water treatment and distribution, ensuring efficient operation.
-


