SPECIFICATIONS
Part No.: IS200VSCAH2AAA
Manufacturer: General Electric
Country of Manufacture: United States of America (USA)
Span: 0.3532 to 4.054 V
Temperature: -30 to +65 oC
Technology: Surface mount
Product Type: Serial Communications Board
Availability: In Stock
Series: Mark VI
Functional Description
IS200VSCAH2AAA is a serial communications board developed by GE. It is a part of the Mark VI control system. The Serial Communications Board (VSCA) serves as a vital intermediary component within the system, facilitating bidirectional communication between the central control system and a diverse array of external devices. Equipped with versatile communication protocols such as RS-232C, RS422, and RS485, the VSCA ensures seamless integration and data exchange across various equipment and instrumentation.
Serial Communications Terminal Board (DSCB)
- The DIN-Rail Mounted Serial Communications Terminal Board (DSCB) complements the functionality of the VSCA board within the control system by acting as a crucial interface hub that connects external devices to the control system. Mounted on a DIN rail, the DSCB offers an efficient, compact, and organized solution for linking various equipment to the system. This makes it particularly useful in industrial settings where space, reliability, and ease of installation are paramount.
- The DSCB is designed to handle seamless integration with critical components such as intelligent pressure sensors and electric drives. Notably, it is compatible with devices like Honeywell pressure transducers and Kollmorgen™ electric drives, both of which are commonly used in industrial applications for accurate measurements and precise control. T
Connectivity Interface
- The connectivity interface between the VSCA and the DSCB terminal board(s) is facilitated by dedicated front panel connectors, labeled J6 and J7. These connectors use 37-pin D shell connectors, which provide secure, stable, and reliable connections between the VSCA board and the DSCB terminal board. The 37-pin D shell connectors are a popular choice for industrial applications due to their robust design
- By leveraging these specialized connectors, the interface between the VSCA and the DSCB maintains the integrity of the data exchange, ensuring that all information between the control system and external devices flows accurately and without interruption. This reliability is crucial in maintaining continuous operations and minimizing the risk of system failures caused by communication errors.
Terminal Board to External Device Connectivity
- The terminal board extends its connectivity capabilities by using Euro-Block connectors (also known as Phoenix-type terminal blocks). These connectors are a key part of the terminal board's design, as they allow for direct wiring of external devices to the control system. The Euro-Block connectors are known for their durability and ease of use, enabling quick and secure connections to equipment.
- The screw terminations used in the connectors ensure that external devices are firmly connected to the board, minimizing the risk of loose or unstable connections that could lead to data loss or system failure. Additionally, the use of twisted shielded pair AWG18 wiring ensures that the connections are highly resistant to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and signal noise. This type of wiring is designed to preserve data integrity by reducing the effects of external electrical disturbances, which is especially important in industrial environments where high levels of electrical noise are common.
- The combination of shielded wiring, screw terminations, and Euro-Block connectors guarantees that the connections between the DSCB and external devices are both stable and robust, ensuring reliable communication and the uninterrupted flow of data between the control system and the connected equipment. This reliability is key for maintaining the overall performance of the system, as any disruption in data exchange could result in significant operational delays or even equipment failure.
Grounding Requirements
- To ensure optimal performance and mitigate the risk of electrical interference, the DSCB terminal board incorporates two screws designated for SCOM (ground) connections.
- These screws must be securely connected to a reliable shield ground, maintaining a stable electrical environment conducive to accurate data transmission.
Supported Distances and Baud Rates
- The terminal board supports communication with external devices over varying distances and baud rates.
- For RS422 and RS485 protocols, communication is supported at distances of up to 1000 ft, with baud rates reaching up to 375 kbps. In contrast, RS-232C communication is limited to distances of 50 ft or cable capacitance of 2500 pF, inclusive of the cable length between the VSCA and the DSCB. To extend communication distances, short haul modems can be employed.
Installation Procedure
- Power Down the VME I/O Processor Rack: Before beginning the installation, ensure that the VME I/O processor rack is powered down to prevent any electrical hazards or interference. This precautionary measure ensures safety and minimizes the risk of damage to components during installation.
- Slide in the Board: With the VME I/O processor rack powered down, carefully slide the board into the designated slot within the rack. Align the board with the slot guides to ensure proper insertion.
- Seat the Edge Connectors: Once the board is inserted into the slot, use your hands to push the top and bottom levers inward. This action will seat the edge connectors of the board securely within the slot, establishing electrical connections with the rack.
- Tighten Captive Screws: With the edge connectors securely seated, proceed to tighten the captive screws located at the top and bottom of the front panel of the VSCA board. Use appropriate tools to ensure a snug fit, but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the board or rack.
- Verify Installation: After tightening the captive screws, perform a visual inspection to confirm that the board is securely installed and properly aligned within the rack. Check for any loose connections or misalignments that may affect functionality.
- Power Up the VME I/O Processor Rack: Once the board is securely installed and verified, proceed to power up the VME I/O processor rack. Ensure that all connections are secure and that the system boots up without any errors.
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 IS200VSCAH2AAA?
It is a serial communications board developed by GE under the Mark VI series.
How many serial communication ports does the VSCA provide?
It provides six serial communication ports, offering versatility and flexibility in communication setup.
What communication protocols are supported by the VSCA?
Each port can be configured to support RS-232C, RS485, or RS422 interfaces, catering to diverse communication requirements.
Are RS-232C and RS422 interfaces full duplex?
Yes, both RS-232C and RS422 interfaces supported by the VSCA offer full duplex communication capabilities, allowing simultaneous transmission and reception of data.
Where are the line drivers located, and what features do they offer?
The line drivers include appropriate termination resistors and configurable jumpers to accommodate multidrop line networks, ensuring efficient and reliable communication.
What happens to the inputs/outputs of RS422 and RS485 when powered down?
When powered down, the inputs/outputs of RS422 and RS485 go into a high impedance condition, ensuring minimal disturbance to the system. Additionally, they have tri-state capability, further enhancing their flexibility in communication setups.
How does the VSCA handle power cycling and receiver conditions?
It minimizes disturbance during power cycling, with a transition time of less than 10 ms. In the case of an open wire condition on a receiver, it biases to a high state, ensuring reliability and stability in communication.
