VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

VMIVME-7750-666000

Product Introduction

The VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B is a high-density analog output module developed by GE for legacy VMEbus systems—specialized in translating control commands from VME controllers like the VMIVME-7750-666000 into precise analog signals for field actuators. Unlike digital-focused modules (e.g., VMIVME-7671-421000) or input-only analog modules (e.g., VMIVME-017807-414001), the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B delivers 16 isolated, configurable output channels—critical for applications requiring synchronized control of valves, variable speed drives (VFDs), and precision dosing pumps in mature industrial infrastructure.

As a core output component of GE’s legacy VME ecosystem, the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B plays a pivotal role in closed-loop control: it receives digital control commands from the VMIVME-7750-666000 (processed from input data of VMIVME-017807-414001), converts these commands to analog signals (e.g., 4–20 mA for valve positioning), and drives field actuators while providing real-time status feedback to the controller. For plant operators, this module extends the functionality of legacy VME systems by enabling high-precision analog control without full modernization, while its SIL 2 compliance ensures reliability in safety-critical sub-systems (e.g., reactor coolant flow control).

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

High-Density Isolated Channels for Flexible Control: The VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B’s 16 isolated channels (configurable per channel) eliminate cross-talk between signals—critical for applications with mixed actuator types. In a legacy chemical plant’s batch reactor system, the VMIVME-7750-666000 sends commands to 8 channels of the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B (4–20 mA for catalyst valves) and 8 channels (0–10 V for temperature control loops), with isolation preventing voltage spikes from one loop affecting another. This flexibility reduces the need for multiple single-type modules, cutting rack space usage by 50% compared to 8-channel analog output modules.

Precision Output for Critical Actuator Positioning: With 16-bit resolution and ±0.05% accuracy (4–20 mA), the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B ensures precise actuator control—essential for processes where small signal deviations impact product quality or safety. In a coal-fired power plant’s boiler feedwater system, the VMIVME-7750-666000 uses the module to send 4–20 mA signals to control valves: a 12 mA signal (50% full scale) opens the valve to exactly 50%, maintaining feedwater flow within ±1% of setpoint. This precision reduces boiler pressure fluctuations by 20% compared to lower-accuracy modules, extending boiler tube lifespan by 3+ years.

Built-In Protection for Industrial Durability: The module’s per-channel short-circuit protection, current limiting, and thermal shutdown safeguards both the module and connected actuators. In a refinery’s crude distillation unit, if a VFD connected to the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B shorts, the module limits current to 30 mA and triggers an alert to the VMIVME-7750-666000, preventing damage to the VME backplane and the actuator. Its thermal shutdown (85°C) also protects the module during high-temperature events (e.g., control cabinet cooling failure), reducing unplanned downtime by 35% compared to unprotected modules.

Seamless Integration with VME Controller Ecosystem: The VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B is fully compatible with the VMIVME-7750-666000 (VMEbus Master), enabling plug-and-play configuration via GE’s VME I/O Configuration Tool. In a nuclear power plant’s auxiliary cooling system, the VMIVME-7750-666000 automatically detects the module, maps its 16 channels to memory addresses, and sends control commands within seconds of power-up. For facilities undergoing phased upgrades, the module’s data is also routed to Mark VIe systems via the VMIVME-7807RC-420001, ensuring parallel monitoring of legacy analog control loops during transition.

Typical Application Scenarios

In a legacy nuclear power plant’s reactor coolant pump control system, the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B controls 4 variable speed pumps (VSPs) and 12 motorized valves. The VMIVME-7750-666000 processes pressure/temperature data from VMIVME-017807-414001 modules, then sends 4–20 mA signals to the module’s channels: 4 channels for VSP speed control (4 mA = stop, 20 mA = max speed) and 12 channels for valve positioning. The module’s isolation ensures VSP electrical noise does not interfere with valve signals, while its ±0.05% accuracy maintains coolant flow within ±0.5% of setpoint—critical for reactor safety. SIL 2 compliance meets NRC 10 CFR Part 50 standards, ensuring reliable operation during extended VME system lifecycles.

In a 20-year-old refinery’s hydrocracker unit, the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B manages 16 catalyst injection pumps. The VMIVME-7750-666000 calculates optimal injection rates based on feedstock quality data (from VMIVME-017807-414001), sending 0–10 V signals to the module’s channels (0 V = no injection, 10 V = max rate). The module’s programmable slew rate (set to 2 V/ms) prevents pump cavitation by limiting rapid signal changes, while short-circuit protection safeguards against wiring faults in the hazardous area. Data from the module is routed to the refinery’s RX3i SCADA system via VMIVME-7807RC-420001, enabling remote monitoring of catalyst usage.

In a municipal wastewater treatment plant’s nutrient dosing system, the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B controls 8 chemical dosing pumps. The VMIVME-7750-666000 adjusts pump speeds based on dissolved nitrogen data (from VMIVME-017807-414001), sending 4–20 mA signals to the module (4 mA = 0 L/h, 20 mA = 50 L/h). The module’s external 24 V DC power supply ensures consistent output during VME backplane voltage dips, while its wide temperature range (-10°C to 65°C) withstands outdoor pump station conditions. This setup reduces chemical waste by 15% compared to manual dosing, ensuring compliance with environmental discharge limits.

VMIVME-7750-666000

Related Model Recommendations

VMIVME-7750-666000: Legacy VMEbus Master controller—primary control unit for the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B; sends analog output commands and processes status feedback.

VMIVME-017807-414001: Enhanced analog input module—complements the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B by providing process data (temperature/pressure) to the VMIVME-7750-666000 for closed-loop control.

VMIVME-7807RC-420001: Redundant VME communication controller—routes VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B status data to modern Mark VIe/RX3i systems via Ethernet/IP/Modbus TCP.

VMIVME-7671-421000: High-density digital I/O module—paired with the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B to provide mixed discrete/analog control (e.g., valve status + positioning).

IS200AOEH1AAA: Mark VIe analog output module—modern counterpart to the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B; integrated with it during phased upgrades to Mark VIe.

VMIVME-3120: Non-redundant VME-to-Ethernet gateway—cost-effective alternative to VMIVME-7807RC-420001 for non-safety-critical data transmission from the module.

IC697CMM742-LL: RX3i communication module—receives VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B data from VMIVME-7807RC-420001 for RX3i SCADA integration.

Proficy Machine Edition v8.5+: GE’s HMI/SCADA software—configures the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B (channel types, protection settings) and monitors output status.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation for the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B requires a 6U VMEbus rack (VME64 compatible) with adjacent space for power wiring. Tools needed include a torque screwdriver (0.8–1.2 N·m), wire strippers (18–22 AWG), digital multimeter, and VME alignment tool. Verify VME backplane power (±5 V DC / ±12 V DC, ripple <50 mV) and external 24 V DC I/O power (±10% tolerance); ensure ground resistance <1 Ω to prevent EMI. Note: Separate VME backplane power and external I/O power cables—mixing them will cause short-circuiting and damage the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B.

Commissioning steps: (1) Mount the module in the VME rack, align connectors, and secure with captive screws; (2) Wire external 24 V DC to the I/O power terminal (follow polarity markings); connect actuators to output terminals (label wires per channel); (3) Power on the VME rack—confirm “PWR,” “BUS OK,” and “I/O POWER” LEDs are green; (4) Launch GE VME I/O Configuration Tool, detect the VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B, and configure channels (e.g., Channel 1: 4–20 mA, Channel 2: 0–10 V); (5) Test outputs: send a 12 mA (50% scale) command from the VMIVME-7750-666000 and verify the module’s output is within ±0.006 mA (meets accuracy specs); (6) For integration with VMIVME-7807RC-420001, map module status registers to VME memory addresses and confirm data transmission via the communication module.

Maintenance suggestions: Monthly—use Proficy Machine Edition to monitor output drift (should not exceed ±0.1% of full scale) and short-circuit flags (ensure no channels are faulted); inspect wiring terminals for tightness. Quarterly—clean VME connectors with GE-approved contact cleaner (prevent corrosion in humid environments); test current limiting by shorting a channel (confirm current ≤30 mA). Annual—calibrate outputs using a NIST-traceable signal generator (4 mA = 0% full scale, 20 mA = 100%); update firmware via VMEbus (use GE’s configuration tool); verify SIL 2 compliance with GE’s Safety Verification Tool. Replace only with GE-authorized VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B spares—third-party modules may not match VME timing or protection features.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The VMIVME-7698-345/350-017698-345B is backed by GE’s 36-month manufacturer warranty—covering output accuracy, channel isolation, and protection functionality. Recognizing its role