Description
IC200PWB001: Product Overview
The GE IC200PWB001 is a power supply booster carrier from GE’s VersaMax series, a legacy platform renowned for its reliability in industrial automation. As part of the VersaMax ecosystem, it addresses the need for scalable power distribution in distributed control architectures—where expanding I/O capacity requires additional power support. Its primary role is to extend power from an external 24 V DC source to all modules to the right of the booster, ensuring consistent voltage and current for field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators) and I/O modules.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “power backbone extender” in VersaMax architectures, the IC200PWB001 performs two primary functions:
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Power Aggregation: Collects power from an external 24 V DC power module (e.g., GE Fanuc IC200PWR001) and distributes it to the right-hand I/O modules via the VersaMax backplane.
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Load Balancing: Splits the power load across multiple boosters (if used in series), preventing overloading of individual power supplies and ensuring stable operation of all connected modules.
Core Functionality:
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DIN Rail Mounting: Designed for easy installation on standard 7.5 mm × 35 mm DIN rails, with unpainted surfaces to ensure proper grounding (critical for EMC protection in industrial environments).
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Status Indication: Two LEDs provide real-time feedback:
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PWR: Illuminates when the booster is receiving power from the external source.
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OK: Illuminates when the booster is successfully linked to the CPU/Network Interface Unit (NIU) and power is being distributed.
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Modular Compatibility: Fits seamlessly into VersaMax I/O racks, working with existing components (e.g., CPUs, I/O modules) to avoid costly system overhauls.
Platform Benefits (VersaMax Series):
The IC200PWB001 inherits the VersaMax platform’s strengths, including:
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Reliability: The VersaMax system is the industry standard for industrial automation, with a proven track record of 24/7 operation in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.
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Legacy Compatibility: The module is designed to work with existing VersaMax components (e.g., I/O racks, controllers), reducing the cost of system upgrades.
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional boosters or power modules, accommodating growing system demands (e.g., adding more sensors to a turbine control system).
GE IC200PWB001
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC200PWB001 (Variant of VersaMax Series)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: Power Supply Booster Carrier
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Series: VersaMax (Industrial Automation)
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Mounting: DIN rail (7.5 mm × 35 mm, unpainted)
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Power Input: 24 V DC (from external power module)
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Power Output: Distributes 24 V DC to right-hand I/O modules (current capacity depends on external power supply)
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Indicators: PWR (power status), OK (link/CPU status) LEDs
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Form Factor: Single-slot (fits VersaMax I/O racks)
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Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Weight: ~0.11 kg (0.24 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Scalable Power Distribution:
The IC200PWB001 allows facilities to expand their VersaMax systems by adding more I/O modules without replacing the entire power infrastructure. For example, a power plant can add a new turbine sensor array and use the booster to power the additional I/O modules, avoiding downtime and reducing costs.
2. Reliable Operation:
The module’s DIN rail mounting and grounding design ensure stable power transmission, even in electrically noisy industrial environments. The PWR/OK LEDs provide instant troubleshooting feedback, allowing technicians to quickly identify power issues (e.g., a disconnected external power supply).
3. Cost-Effective Expansion:
By using the IC200PWB001 to extend power instead of replacing the entire power supply, facilities can save thousands of dollars in upgrade costs. This is particularly valuable for legacy systems where maintaining compatibility is critical.
4. Easy Integration:
The module fits seamlessly into existing VersaMax I/O racks, requiring no modifications to the rack or backplane. This minimizes installation time and effort, allowing facilities to expand their systems quickly.
GE IC200PWB001
Typical Applications
The GE IC200PWB001 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Extends power to I/O modules in turbine control systems, enabling the addition of new sensors (e.g., blade position, fuel flow) without upgrading the main power supply.
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Manufacturing:
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Powers additional I/O modules in assembly line controllers, supporting the integration of new robotic arms or conveyor belts.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Distributes power to I/O modules in refinery control systems, allowing the addition of new valves or pumps without disrupting existing operations.
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Water Treatment:
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Extends power to I/O modules in water quality monitoring systems, supporting the integration of new sensors (e.g., pH, turbidity) without replacing the main power supply.
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