Description
DS3800HPCA1F1E: Product Overview
The GE DS3800HPCA1F1E is a digital pulse controller belonging to the Mark IV series (a legacy platform for GE turbine control systems). It is engineered for digital signal processing in industrial automation systems, particularly in gas and steam turbine control applications. As part of the Mark IV ecosystem, it acts as a “signal processor” between the turbine control unit and field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators), ensuring accurate and reliable data transmission for process control.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “digital signal interface” in Mark IV architectures, the DS3800HPCA1F1E performs two primary functions:
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Pulse Signal Processing: Receives digital pulse signals from field sensors (e.g., a proximity switch detecting a part in a manufacturing line) and conditions them for transmission to the turbine control unit.
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Control Command Execution: Sends control commands from the turbine control unit to field actuators (e.g., a solenoid valve opening to release a part) based on processed pulse signals.
Core Functionality:
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VMEbus Compatibility: Conforms to VMEbus Rev. C.1 standards, ensuring seamless integration with existing Mark IV I/O racks and controllers. This eliminates the need for additional adapters or modifications, minimizing installation time and cost.
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Legacy Support: Designed to work with existing Mark IV components (e.g., I/O modules, terminal boards), reducing the cost of system upgrades. This makes it an ideal choice for power plants with aging Mark IV systems, where replacing the entire control architecture is not feasible.
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Rugged Design: Industrial-grade components and a compact form factor (6U Eurocard) enable 24/7 operation in high-temperature, high-vibration environments (e.g., turbine halls).
Platform Benefits (Mark IV Series):
The DS3800HPCA1F1E inherits the Mark IV platform’s strengths, including:
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Reliability: The Mark IV system is a proven platform for turbine control, with a track record of 24/7 operation in power plants worldwide.
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O modules to accommodate growing system demands (e.g., adding more sensors to a turbine control system).
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Easy Integration: Compatible with GE Fanuc/Emerson PLC/PAC systems, ensuring seamless integration with existing automation architectures.
GE DS3800HPCA1F1E
Technical Specifications
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Parameter
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Specification
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Model Number
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DS3800HPCA1F1E (Variant of Mark IV Series)
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Manufacturer
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GE (General Electric)
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Product Type
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Digital Pulse Controller
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Series
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Mark IV (Turbine Control Systems)
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Bus Compatibility
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VMEbus Rev. C.1 (fits into Mark IV I/O racks)
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Form Factor
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6U Eurocard (160 mm × 233 mm)
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Status
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Discontinued by manufacturer
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Weight
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~0.45 kg (1 lb)
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Certifications
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CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
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Core Features & Customer Value
1. Seamless Legacy Integration:
The DS3800HPCA1F1E’s VMEbus compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing Mark IV systems, minimizing downtime and effort during upgrades. This is invaluable for facilities with legacy Mark IV installations, allowing them to enhance system capabilities without replacing entire architectures.
2. Reliable Signal Processing:
The module’s rugged design and legacy support ensure reliable digital pulse signal processing, which is critical for turbine control (e.g., preventing misfires and unstable combustion).
3. Cost-Effective Retrofit:
By enabling integration with existing Mark IV components, the DS3800HPCA1F1E eliminates the need for costly system upgrades. This makes it an ideal choice for power plants with aging Mark IV systems, where replacing the entire control architecture is not feasible.
4. Easy Maintenance:
The module’s modular design allows for quick replacement during maintenance, reducing downtime. Aftermarket suppliers like York MRO provide repair services for the DS3800HPCA1F1E, ensuring that facilities can extend the lifespan of their existing systems.

GE DS3800HPCA1F1E
Typical Applications
The GE DS3800HPCA1F1E is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Controls gas/steam turbines in power plants, ensuring stable power output and efficient fuel use.
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Manufacturing:
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Used in assembly lines to process digital pulse signals from sensors (e.g., limit switches, proximity sensors), enabling precise control of manufacturing processes.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Controls digital pulse signals from refinery equipment (e.g., pumps, valves), ensuring safe and efficient operation in hazardous environments.
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