Description
VMIVME-4512: Product Overview
The GE VMIVME-4512 is a 16-bit analog I/O board designed for VMEbus-based industrial automation systems. As a critical component of the VME ecosystem, it enables precise analog signal acquisition from field devices (e.g., thermocouples, RTDs, pressure transmitters) and output control signals to actuators (e.g., valves, motors), supporting real-time monitoring and control in harsh industrial environments.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as an “analog signal interface” in VMEbus architectures, the VMIVME-4512 performs two primary functions:
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Analog Input Acquisition: Converts analog signals from field devices into high-resolution digital data for processing by the VMEbus controller.
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Analog Output Control: Generates analog control signals (e.g., 4–20 mA, 0–10 V DC) to drive actuators, enabling precise adjustment of industrial processes.
Core Functionality:
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High-Resolution Conversion: With 16-bit resolution, the board achieves a precision of 0.0015% (full-scale), ensuring accurate representation of analog signals—critical for maintaining turbine stability and complying with utility regulations.
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Flexible Input Configuration: Supports 64 differential or single-ended input channels, configurable via software to accommodate diverse field device requirements (e.g., 4–20 mA current loops, 0–10 V DC voltage signals).
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Programmable Scan Rate: Allows adjustment of the scan rate (up to 100 kHz) via software, balancing speed and precision for different applications (e.g., fast-changing signals like vibration sensors vs. slow-changing signals like temperature).
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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-4512 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 sensors 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-7700RC
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: VMIVME-4512 (Variant: VMIVME-4512-300)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: 16-Channel Analog I/O Board
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Series: VMEbus
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Resolution: 16 bits
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Input Channels: 64 (differential or single-ended)
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Input Signal Range: 0–10 V DC, 4–20 mA (configurable via jumpers)
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Output Signal Range: 0–10 V DC, 4–20 mA (configurable via jumpers)
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Scan Rate: Up to 100 kHz (programmable)
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Bus Standard: VME64 (conforms to IEEE 1014)
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Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°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 Signal Acquisition:
The VMIVME-4512’s 16-bit resolution ensures accurate conversion of analog signals, which is critical for maintaining turbine stability—even minor errors in signal digitization can lead to incorrect control decisions (e.g., misadjusting fuel flow, resulting in inefficient combustion).
2. Flexible Input/Output Configuration:
With 64 input channels (differential or single-ended) and configurable signal ranges (0–10 V DC, 4–20 mA), the board accommodates a wide range of 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 (-40°C to +85°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-7700RC
Typical Applications
The GE VMIVME-4512 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Digitizes analog signals from gas/steam turbines (e.g., temperature, pressure, blade position) for real-time control, improving efficiency and reliability.
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Manufacturing:
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Converts analog signals from sensors (e.g., temperature, flow) in manufacturing processes, enabling precise control of equipment (e.g., motors, pumps).
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Chemical Processing:
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Processes analog signals from pressure transmitters and temperature sensors in chemical plants, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
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