GE SBI-PDP-32

Description

GE SBI-PDP-32 – Programmable Device Programmer / PROM Programmer

Product Description
The GE SBI-PDP-32 is a specialized programming device, often categorized as a Programmable Device Programmer or PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) Programmer, used historically with General Electric’s line of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial controls. This device is not a PLC module itself, but a critical peripheral tool for developing and maintaining control systems. The primary function of the GE SBI-PDP-32 was to transfer a user-created logic program from a development environment (like early GE programming software) onto a physical, non-volatile memory chip, such as an EPROM, EEPROM, or UV-PROM. This programmed chip could then be inserted into a compatible GE PLC CPU or I/O module to provide the operational control logic, allowing for program portability and secure backup in the era before flash memory and network-based downloads became standard.

Product Parameters

• Type: PROM / Memory Device Programmer (Development & Maintenance Tool).

• Era & Compatibility: Primarily used with 1980s-1990s era GE PLCs, such as the Series One (PLC-1), Series Three (PLC-3), Series Five (PLC-5, especially earlier models), and Series Six (PLC-6). Also used for other GE industrial controllers and motion control boards.

• Programmed Media: EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), and similar memory chips (e.g., 2732, 2764, 27128, 27256, 27C512 series).

• Host Interface: Typically connected to a programming terminal or PC via a serial interface (e.g., RS-232).

• Functionality: Reads, writes, verifies, and erases (if supporting UV-EPROMs with an eraser module) memory chips. Transfers programs between the development software and the physical chip.

• Power Supply: Operated from an AC mains power adapter.

Advantages and Features

• Essential for Legacy System Support: The GE SBI-PDP-32 is the key tool for backing up, modifying, and restoring programs in countless industrial installations that still rely on older GE PLC generations. It is indispensable for maintaining operational continuity.

• Program Portability and Security: It enabled the creation of physical program masters that could be easily duplicated, shipped to remote sites, or stored as secure backups independent of any computer system.

• Standalone Operation: Once a chip was programmed, the PLC could run autonomously with its logic stored in the chip, without the need for a connected programming device.

• Firmware Updates: Could also be used to program firmware or BIOS chips for various GE industrial hardware components beyond just PLC logic.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Industrial Manufacturing: Creating and updating control programs for automated production lines, assembly machines, and material handling systems controlled by classic GE Series Five or Series Six PLCs.

• Infrastructure: Maintaining control logic in water treatment facilities, pumping stations, and older building management systems.

• Machine Tool Industry: Servicing CNC machines or special-purpose industrial machines that utilize GE motion controllers or PLCs from this era.

• Legacy System Documentation: The only practical method for extracting a program from a running PLC for archival or reverse-engineering purposes when online connections are not available or the original source code is lost.

Comparisons with Competing Products

• OEM-Specific Tools: Other PLC manufacturers like Allen-Bradley (with PROM programmers for PLC-2, PLC-3), Siemens, and Modicon had their own equivalent proprietary programmers. The GE SBI-PDP-32 was GE’s dedicated solution.

• Modern Programming Methods: Contemporary PLCs (like GE’s RX3i/PACSystems) use Ethernet or USB to download programs directly to the controller’s flash memory. The SBI-PDP-32 represents a pre-networking, physical-media-based technology.

• Generic PROM Programmers: While generic EPROM programmers exist, the GE SBI-PDP-32 was bundled with and optimized for GE’s specific software workflow, file formats, and chip types commonly used in their products, reducing compatibility issues.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Confirm Absolute Compatibility: This is the most critical step. The GE SBI-PDP-32 is only useful if you are working with specific older GE PLCs and memory chips. Identify your exact PLC model and the type of memory module it uses.

2. Requires Obsolete Full Ecosystem: To use the SBI-PDP-32 effectively, you need the matching vintage software (e.g., LM90 for Series One, Logicmaster for Series Five), a compatible PC with a real serial port (or a proven USB converter), and the correct device driver files and cables.

3. Source Blank Memory Chips: You will need a supply of the correct type of blank (or erasable) EPROM/EEPROM chips. These are increasingly difficult to source as new old stock.

4. Handling of UV-EPROMs: If using Ultraviolet-erasable EPROMs, you will need a separate UV eraser lamp and must carefully manage the chip’s window cover to prevent accidental erasure by ambient light.

5. Purpose is for Legacy Maintenance Only: The GE SBI-PDP-32 should be selected solely for supporting and preserving existing legacy systems. It is not a tool for new projects.

6. Consider Professional Services: Given the complexity and obsolescence, for critical one-time program recovery, consider hiring a specialist service company with the preserved tools and expertise, rather than investing in the entire setup yourself.

HE693THM884M GE PLC
HE693RTM705C GE PLC
IC693MM321CA-GJ GE PLC
IC695PSA040F GE PLC
IC693PTM101A GE