GE DS3828BH9G

Parameters

Advantages & Features

• Highest Channel Density – A single GE DS3828BH9G provides 9 outputs, replacing up to three 3-channel modules or one 8-channel competitor card plus an extra channel, saving rack slots and backplane power in large control systems.

• Cost-Effective per Channel – The GE DS3828BH9G offers the lowest cost per point in the Mark VIe output family, making it ideal for high-I/O-count applications like combined-cycle plants with numerous auxiliary control loops.

• Programmable Dither – Each channel has independent dither settings, allowing optimization for different valve types (pneumatic positioners, solenoid valves, proportional actuators) from a single module.

• Diagnostics and Monitoring – Continuous current comparison (±2% accuracy) detects open-wire and partial shorts, with fault reporting within one scan cycle.

• SIL 1 Capability – Suitable for non-safety-critical control loops; can be used in SIL 1 applications with appropriate external proof-testing.

Application Cases

• Combined-Cycle HRSG Auxiliaries – A single GE DS3828BH9G controls 9 auxiliary valves in a heat recovery steam generator, including attemperator spray, drum level bypass, sootblower pressure, and feedwater recirculation valves.

• Gas Turbine Auxiliary Systems – Drives up to 9 pneumatic positioners for inlet filter differential pressure, cooling air bleed valves, and fuel gas preheater bypass in a 9FA gas turbine package.

• Water Treatment Plants – Controls 9 chemical dosing pumps and pH adjustment valves in large-scale desalination or wastewater treatment facilities.

• Paper Mill Process Control – Provides 4–20mA signals to 9 dilution water and stock consistency valves in a single module, reducing cabinet space in retrofit projects.

Competitor Comparison

The GE DS3828BH9G excels in cost-per-channel and density but sacrifices resolution (12-bit), load range (500Ω max), and update speed (250Hz) compared to lower-density variants. For applications where 12-bit resolution and 250Hz update are sufficient, it provides significant space and cost savings.

Selection Suggestions

• Choose the GE DS3828BH9G when you need high channel count (7–9 outputs) and 12-bit resolution is acceptable (typical for pneumatic positioners, damper drives, and temperature control valves). Do not use for precision servo valves or fast-acting loops requiring 14+ bits and <5ms response.

• Verify your actuator load impedance is ≤500Ω at 20mA. For loads between 500–750Ω, use the DS3828BH5A or DS3828BH5AR instead. For loads >750Ω, use the DS3828BH3A series.

• If your application requires higher update rate (>250Hz) or better accuracy (±0.1%), select the DS3828BH5A with 14-bit resolution and 500Hz update.

• For harsh environments (offshore, marine, high vibration), select the ruggedized DS3828BH5AR — the DS3828BH9G has no conformal coating and standard vibration rating (2g).

• Pair the GE DS3828BH9G with the TB500-9 terminal block (9-channel screw-clamp or spring-cage termination) for compact field wiring.

Precautions

• Load Limitation – The GE DS3828BH9G has a maximum load of 500Ω at 24V supply. For loads >500Ω, the output voltage compliance may be insufficient to drive full 20mA — increase supply to 28V (within tolerance) to extend to ~620Ω maximum.

• Thermal Derating – With all 9 channels at 20mA, internal power dissipation is approximately 4.5W. The GE DS3828BH9G derates output current above 60°C ambient: reduce to 15mA per channel if operating at 65–70°C. Install in a ventilated slot with good airflow.

• Resolution Limitations – 12-bit resolution provides approximately 5µA/bit step at 20mA range. For applications requiring fine control (e.g., <1% valve positioning), this may cause hunting — use 14-bit or 16-bit modules instead.

• Common Ground – All 9 outputs share a common negative terminal. For isolated 4–20mA loops (multiple transmitters with separate power supplies), use external loop isolators.

• Update Rate – The GE DS3828BH9G updates at 250Hz (4ms per channel sequentially). If you require simultaneous updates across channels, this module is not suitable — use the DS3828BH3A (1kHz, simultaneous across 3 channels) instead.

• Dither Cross-Talk – With 9 channels operating on one module, set dither frequencies to avoid harmonic multiples (e.g., 200Hz, 215Hz, 230Hz, 245Hz, etc.) to prevent beat frequencies that may couple through shared power rails.

• Power Supply Sizing – Total current: 400mA (module) + 9 x 22mA (with losses) ≈ 600mA. Allow 30% margin and use a 24V supply rated at ≥800mA per module.

• Calibration Interval – Factory calibration valid for 24 months. For ISO 17025 compliance, the GE DS3828BH9G must be recalibrated by an authorized GE service center — field calibration is not recommended.

• Output Back-Feed – Not protected against external voltage on output terminals. Use series fuses (25mA quick-blow) if external supplies share the same cable tray.