Description
VMIVME-4100: Product Overview
The GE VMIVME-4100 is a 16-channel 12-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) board designed for VMEbus-based industrial automation systems. As a critical component of the VME ecosystem, it enables precise analog signal output from the VMEbus controller to field actuators (e.g., solenoid valves, contactors) and signal generators (e.g., data acquisition systems), supporting real-time control and monitoring in harsh industrial environments.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as an “analog signal output interface” in VMEbus architectures, the VMIVME-4100 performs two primary functions:
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Analog Signal Output: Converts digital signals from the VMEbus controller into high-precision analog outputs (voltage/current) to drive field actuators (e.g., opening a valve via a solenoid).
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Signal Generation: Provides stable analog signals for data acquisition systems (e.g., testing equipment, calibration devices), enabling precise measurement and analysis.
Core Functionality:
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High-Precision Conversion: Each channel features a dedicated 12-bit DAC, achieving a precision of 0.025% (full-scale). This ensures accurate control of actuators—critical for maintaining turbine stability and complying with utility regulations.
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Double-Buffered Data Latch: Uses double-buffered registers to enable synchronous updates of all channels (via software or external trigger), ensuring consistent signal output for multi-actuator systems.
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Buffered Voltage Output: Provides low-impedance voltage output (0.8 Ω per channel) to drive high-capacitance loads (e.g., long cables, actuators) without signal degradation.
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Built-In Test (BIT): Includes test logic for fault detection and isolation, enabling offline or real-time diagnostics to ensure system reliability.
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VMEbus Compatibility: Conforms to the VME64 standard, ensuring seamless integration with VMEbus-based controllers (e.g., GE Fanuc 90-30 series) and backplanes.
Platform Benefits (VMEbus Series):
The VMIVME-4100 leverages GE’s VMEbus platform, which is renowned for:
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Reliability: Industrial-grade components and a rugged design ensure 24/7 operation in harsh environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration).
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O boards to accommodate growing system demands (e.g., adding more actuators to a turbine control system).
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Integration: Seamlessly integrates with VMEbus-based controllers and other I/O modules, reducing setup time and effort.
GE VMIVME-2120
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: VMIVME-4100 (Variants: VMIVME-4100-140, VMIVME-4100-012)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: 16-Channel 12-Bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) Board
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Series: VMEbus
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Channels: 16 (each with dedicated 12-bit DAC)
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Resolution: 12 bits
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Output Range:
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Voltage: ±10 V DC (programmable)
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Current: 10 mA (max)
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Output Impedance: 0.8 Ω (per channel)
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Update Rate: Random update (non-scan), software or external trigger
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Bus Standard: VME64 (conforms to IEEE 1014)
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Isolation: Channel-to-bus isolation (1500 V AC, inferred from similar VMEbus products)
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Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C (32°F to 131°F)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Dimensions: 160 mm × 100 mm × 20 mm (6.3 in × 3.9 in × 0.8 in) (standard VMEbus single-slot)
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Weight: 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. High-Precision Actuator Control:
The VMIVME-4100’s 12-bit resolution ensures accurate output signals, which is critical for maintaining turbine stability—even minor errors in signal output can lead to incorrect control decisions (e.g., misadjusting fuel flow, resulting in inefficient combustion).
2. Flexible Output Configuration:
Software-selectable output ranges (±10 V DC) and current/voltage modes allow the board to interface with different field devices, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning hardware. This flexibility saves time and money during installation.
3. Rugged Industrial Design:
The board’s operating temperature range (0°C to +55°C) and compact form factor make it suitable for harsh industrial environments. Its DIN rail mounting option simplifies installation in crowded control cabinets, reducing setup time and effort.
4. Easy Integration:
VMEbus compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing VMEbus-based systems, minimizing downtime and effort during upgrades. This is invaluable for facilities with legacy VMEbus installations, allowing them to enhance system capabilities without replacing entire architectures.
GE VMIVME-2120
Typical Applications
The GE VMIVME-4100 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Controls solenoid valves and contactors in gas/steam turbines, enabling real-time adjustment of fuel flow and power output.
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Manufacturing:
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Drives actuators (e.g., solenoid valves, motors) in assembly lines, ensuring precise control of manufacturing processes.
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Data Acquisition:
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Provides analog signals for testing equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, multimeters), enabling precise measurement and analysis.
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Chemical Processing:
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Controls valves and pumps in chemical plants, ensuring safe and efficient operation in hazardous environments.
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