Description
VMIVME-4911: Product Overview
The GE VMIVME-4911 is a quad-channel multiplexed synchro/resolver-to-digital converter board designed for VMEbus-based industrial automation systems. As a critical component of the VME ecosystem, it enables precise conversion of analog synchro/resolver signals (from field devices like turbine position sensors) into high-resolution digital data, which is then transmitted to the VMEbus controller for real-time processing.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “precision signal conversion interface” in VMEbus architectures, the VMIVME-4911 performs two primary functions:
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Signal Acquisition: Receives analog synchro/resolver signals from field devices (e.g., a turbine’s rotor position sensor) and converts them into digital data using high-precision ADCs.
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Data Transmission: Transmits the converted digital data to the VMEbus controller via the VME64 bus, enabling real-time monitoring and control of rotational motion (e.g., adjusting turbine blade pitch for optimal efficiency).
Core Functionality:
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Quad-Channel Multiplexing: Supports four independent synchro/resolver channels, allowing simultaneous conversion of multiple signals (e.g., from multiple turbine sensors) with minimal crosstalk.
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High-Resolution Conversion: Achieves 16-bit resolution (typical for precision applications), ensuring accurate representation of synchro/resolver signals—critical for maintaining turbine stability and complying with utility regulations.
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VMEbus Integration: Conforms to the VME64 standard, ensuring seamless integration with VMEbus-based controllers (e.g., GE Fanuc 90-30 series) and backplanes.
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Rugged Design: Industrial-grade components and a compact form factor make it suitable for harsh industrial environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration).
GE VMIVME-2532A
Platform Benefits (VMEbus Series):
The VMIVME-4911 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.
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional converter 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.
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: VMIVME-4911 (Variant: VMIVME-4911-102)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: Quad-Channel Multiplexed Synchro/Resolver-to-Digital Converter Board
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Series: VMEbus
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Channels: 4 (quad-channel, multiplexed)
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Signal Type: Synchro/resolver (quadrature encoder input)
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Resolution: 16-bit (typical)
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Bus Standard: VME64 (conforms to IEEE 1014)
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Input Voltage Range: ±10 V DC (synchro/resolver signal input)
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Conversion Rate: Up to 100 kHz (programmable)
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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) (inferred from similar VMEbus products)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
GE VMIVME-2532A
Core Features & Customer Value
1. High-Precision Signal Conversion:
The VMIVME-4911’s 16-bit resolution ensures accurate conversion of synchro/resolver 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. Quad-Channel Multiplexing:
Supports four independent channels, allowing simultaneous conversion of multiple signals (e.g., from multiple turbine sensors) with minimal crosstalk. This reduces the number of boards needed in a system, saving space and cost.
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 allows seamless integration with existing VMEbus 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.
Typical Applications
The GE VMIVME-4911 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Converts synchro/resolver signals from gas/steam turbines (e.g., rotor position, blade pitch) for real-time control, improving efficiency and reliability.
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Manufacturing:
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Used in precision manufacturing equipment (e.g., CNC machines) to convert quadrature encoder signals for accurate positioning and control.
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Aerospace & Defense:
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Employed in radar systems and missile guidance systems to convert synchro/resolver signals for target tracking and control.
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