Description
DS3800HHTB1D1D: Product Overview
The GE DS3800HHTB1D1D is a highway transmit connection board designed specifically for GE Mark V gas turbine control systems, a legacy platform for industrial power generation and turbine automation. As part of the Mark V ecosystem, it plays a pivotal role in enabling high-speed data communication between VMEbus-based controllers (e.g., GE Fanuc 90-30 series) and field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators) in gas turbine applications.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “communication hub” in Mark V architectures, the DS3800HHTB1D1D performs two primary functions:
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Signal Transmission: Facilitates the transfer of control signals (e.g., start/stop commands, setpoint adjustments) from the VMEbus controller to field devices via high-speed “highway” connections.
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Status Monitoring: Uses 3 red LEDs to indicate the status of power supply, signal transmission, and fault conditions, allowing operators to quickly diagnose issues (e.g., communication failures, power outages).
Core Functionality:
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VMEbus Compatibility: Conforms to VMEbus Rev. C.1, ensuring seamless integration with VME64 backplanes and controllers. This compatibility allows the board to work with existing Mark V components (e.g., I/O modules, contactors) without requiring major system upgrades.
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High-Speed Communication: Designed to support high-speed data transfer (8/16/32-bit) between VMEbus chassis and external devices, which is critical for real-time control applications like turbine blade adjustment or fuel flow regulation.
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Rugged Design: Constructed with industrial-grade components to withstand harsh environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration) commonly found in turbine halls. The board’s compact form factor (6U Eurocard) allows for easy installation in crowded control cabinets.
Platform Benefits (Mark V Series):
The DS3800HHTB1D1D leverages GE’s Mark V platform, which is renowned for:
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Reliability: The Mark V system is the industry standard for gas turbine control, with a proven track record of 24/7 operation in power plants worldwide.
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Legacy Support: The DS3800HHTB1D1D is designed to work with existing Mark V components, reducing the cost of system upgrades and extending the lifespan of legacy systems.
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Scalability: The board supports expansion with additional communication modules to accommodate growing system demands (e.g., adding more field devices to a turbine control system).
DS3800HHTB1D1D
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: DS3800HHTB1D1D (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: Highway Transmit Connection Board
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Series: Mark V (Gas Turbine Control)
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Bus Standard: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (supports 8/16/32-bit data transfer)
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Indicators: 3 red LEDs (power, transmission, fault)
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Form Factor: 6U Eurocard (160 mm × 233 mm)
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Weight: 0.23 kg (0.5 lbs)
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Status: Obsolete (replacement parts may be required for repairs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Reliable Communication:
The DS3800HHTB1D1D’s VMEbus compatibility and high-speed signal transmission ensure reliable communication between VMEbus controllers and field devices, even in electrically noisy environments. For example, in a power plant, the board can reliably transmit control signals to a turbine’s fuel valve actuator, ensuring stable power output.
2. Easy Diagnostics:
The 3 red LEDs provide visual feedback on the board’s status, allowing operators to quickly identify issues (e.g., a power outage indicated by the power LED being off). This reduces downtime and improves system reliability, which is critical for industrial facilities where unplanned outages can result in significant financial losses.
3. Rugged Industrial Design:
The board’s industrial-grade components and compact form factor make it suitable for harsh industrial environments. Its ability to withstand vibration and temperature fluctuations ensures long-term reliability, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
4. Legacy Integration:
The DS3800HHTB1D1D is designed to work with existing Mark V components, allowing facilities to extend the life of their legacy systems without requiring major upgrades. This reduces the cost and complexity of migrating to new architectures, which is invaluable for facilities with limited budgets or resources.

DS3800HHTB1D1D
Typical Applications
The GE DS3800HHTB1D1D is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Enables communication between VMEbus controllers and gas turbine field devices (e.g., fuel valves, sensors) in power plants.
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Manufacturing:
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Used in industrial machinery (e.g., pumps, compressors) to facilitate communication between VMEbus-based controllers and field devices.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Supports communication between VMEbus controllers and field devices (e.g., valves, pumps) in chemical plants, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
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