IS200VCMIH2C - VME Communication Interface

SPECIFICATIONS

Part No.: IS200VCMIH2C
Manufacturer: General Electric
Country of Manufacture: United States of America (USA)
Temperature: 0 to 60 °C
Board Type: 6U high VME boar
Processor: Texas Instruments TMS320C32
Product Type: VME Communication Interface
Availability: In Stock
Series: Mark VI

Functional Description

IS200VCMIH2C is a VME communication interface developed by GE. It is a part of Mark VI control system. The integration of IONet and VCMI boards exemplifies a thoughtful and scalable approach to control system architecture. Whether in a small, consolidated system or a large-scale setup with remote I/O racks, the design ensures adaptability and optimization. The provision of parallel IONet for low-latency applications underscores a commitment to performance, enabling the control system to meet the varied demands of modern industrial applications. This holistic approach to connectivity and scalability positions the system to effectively address the evolving needs of diverse control environments.

Scalability and Optimization in IONet Connectivity

• In the dynamic landscape of control systems, the architecture must be scalable and adaptable to varying requirements. The utilization of IONet, coupled with the flexibility of multiple VCMI boards, provides a framework that caters to diverse system sizes and data throughput needs. Let's explore how multiple I/O racks are interconnected, the introduction of parallel IONet for low-latency applications, and the system's configuration in small and large-scale scenarios.

Connecting Multiple I/O Racks

• Individual VCMI Boards: In a system where multiple racks coexist, each rack is equipped with its dedicated board. These boards serve as communication gateways, facilitating the seamless exchange of data between the controller and the I/O racks. The IONet, a vital communication interface, becomes the conduit for this data flow.
• Parallel IONet for Low Latency: Recognizing the demand for low-latency applications, a strategic approach is implemented. A second IONet port on the VCMI boards is introduced as a parallel IONet. This configuration optimizes data throughput, ensuring that applications with stringent latency requirements can operate with enhanced speed and responsiveness.

Small System Configuration

• Consolidated I/O in Control Rack: In a smaller system where all the I/O is consolidated within the VME control rack, the need for remote I/O racks is obviated. Each channel, represented by R, S, and T, maintains its individual IONet connectivity. The VCMI board associated with each channel is thus responsible for managing the data exchange within the confines of the control rack.
• Large System Configuration with Remote I/O Racks: IONet Supporting Multiple I/O Racks: In a larger-scale configuration involving remote I/O racks, the architecture is designed to scale seamlessly. Each IONet, while still maintaining its dedicated channel (R, S, T) connectivity, now supports multiple I/O racks. This expansion allows for the integration of additional I/O resources distributed across the larger system.
• Selective Representation for Clarity: While multiple racks can be connected to each IONet, for clarity, the illustration depicts only one rack. This streamlined representation provides an overview while emphasizing the system's extensibility.

Memory

• In the intricate landscape of control systems, the memory architecture plays a pivotal role in ensuring swift data access, storage, and retrieval. This system, boasting a sophisticated memory configuration, leverages dual-port memory, SRAM, and flash memory. Let's delve into the specifics of each type, understanding their capacities and roles within the system.
• Capacity and Configuration: The system incorporates dual-port memory with a substantial capacity of 32 Kbytes, configured for 32-bit transfers. This configuration enables the memory to handle large chunks of data efficiently, making it well-suited for applications that demand high-speed access and concurrent read and write operations.
• Parallel Processing Capability: Dual-port memory facilitates parallel processing, allowing the system to read and write data simultaneously. This is particularly advantageous in scenarios where multiple components or processes require concurrent access to the same block of memory, enhancing the overall system performance.
• SRAM (Static Random-Access Memory): Complementing the dual-port memory, the system incorporates SRAM with an impressive capacity of 64k x 32. This sizable storage capability provides a versatile working space for data that requires rapid and random access, commonly seen in real-time applications and data buffering.
• High-Speed Access: SRAM, being static in nature, ensures swift access times and low latency. This makes it an ideal choice for storing critical operational data that necessitates quick retrieval, contributing to the overall responsiveness of the control system.
• Flash Memory: The system is fortified with flash memory, offering a storage capacity of 128k x 8. Flash memory, renowned for its non-volatile characteristics, allows the system to retain data even in the absence of power. This makes it suitable for storing firmware, configuration settings, and other essential data that needs to persist across power cycles.
• Reliable and Endurance: Flash memory's resilience against wear and tear, coupled with its ability to endure a substantial number of write cycles, ensures the longevity and reliability of stored data. This endurance is particularly vital for applications where frequent read and write operations occur, such as firmware updates.

Communication Interfaces

• H1 Version:
  • IONet Port: Equipped with one IONet 10 Base2 Ethernet port featuring a BNC connector.
  • Speed: Supports data transfer rates of up to 10 Mbits/sec.
  • VME Bus Block Transfers: Enables communication via the VME bus architecture, facilitating high-speed data transfers within the system.
  • RS-232C Serial Port: Features one RS-232C serial port with a male "D" style connector.
  • Speed Options: Supports baud rates of 9600, 19,200, or 38,400 bits/sec, providing flexibility in serial communication settings.
  • Parallel Port: Includes one eight-bit bi-directional parallel port, operating in EPP Version 1.7 mode of IEEE 1284-1994.
  • Functionality: Enables parallel communication with compatible devices, facilitating efficient data exchange.
• H2 Version:
  • IONet Ports: Equipped with three IONet 10 Base2 Ethernet ports, each featuring a BNC connector.
  • Speed: Supports data transfer rates of up to 10 Mbits/sec.
  • VME Bus Block Transfers: Similar to the H1 version, facilitates high-speed data transfers via the VME bus architecture.
  • RS-232C Serial Port: Includes one RS-232C serial port with a male "D" style connector.
  • Speed Options: Offers baud rates of 9600, 19,200, or 38,400 bits/sec for serial communication.
  • Parallel Port: Retains the eight-bit bi-directional parallel port, operating in EPP Version 1.7 mode of IEEE 1284-1994, providing parallel communication capabilities.

Diagnostics

• Power Supply Monitoring: The internal power supply buses, including 5 V, 12 V, 15 V, and 28 V, undergo continuous monitoring for optimal performance. Alarm settings for voltage deviations are configurable, typically set at 3.5% for most supplies. However, the 28 V supplies have a slightly higher threshold set at 5.5 percent.
• Power Distribution Module (PDM) Monitoring: Diagnostic signals from the power distribution module (PDM) are closely monitored to detect any irregularities. These signals, transmitted through connector J301, encompass various parameters such as ground fault detection and over/under voltage conditions on the P125 V bus. Additionally, the monitoring includes two differential ±5V dc analog inputs, denoted as P28A and PCOM, catering to external monitoring circuits. Digital inputs are also scrutinized as part of the diagnostic process, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of the power distribution module.

The WOC team is always available to help you with your Mark VI requirements. For more information, please contact WOC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IS200VCMIH2C?
It is a VME communication interface developed by GE under the Mark VI series.

Why is monitoring ground faults essential in the power distribution module?
Ground faults are critical to monitor as they can lead to electrical malfunctions and potential safety hazards. The system actively checks for ground faults in the power distribution module, ensuring that any deviations are promptly identified and addressed to maintain the integrity of the power distribution system.

What is the significance of monitoring over/under voltage in the P125 V bus?
Monitoring over/under voltage on the P125 V bus is crucial for safeguarding connected devices. Deviations from the specified voltage levels can impact the performance and reliability of the system. By actively monitoring and alarming for over/under voltage, the system ensures early detection of potential issues, allowing for timely corrective actions.

How are analog inputs utilized in the power distribution module?
Analog inputs, specifically the two differential 5V dc analog inputs (P28A and PCOM), play a role in external monitor circuits. These inputs enable the system to gather analog data from external sources, providing valuable insights into the health and performance of the power distribution module and associated components.