GE DS3800HIOA1B1B

Parameters

• Analog Inputs: 4 channels, 4–20mA (default) or 0–10V DC (jumper-configurable)

• Analog Outputs: 4 channels, 4–20mA (default) or 0–10V DC (jumper-configurable)

• Resolution: 12-bit ADC (inputs) / 12-bit DAC (outputs)

• Accuracy: ±0.08% of full scale (B1 improved over standard ±0.1%)

• Input Impedance: 250Ω (current) / >1MΩ (voltage)

• Output Drive: 4–20mA into 750Ω max / 0–10V into 5kΩ min

• Filtering: 50Hz/60Hz noise rejection (B1 feature on inputs)

• Isolation: 1500V RMS optical isolation (channel-to-backplane)

• Power: +5V DC @ 1.0A, +15V DC @ 0.3A (requires both rails)

• Scan/Update Rate: 80ms (inputs, B1 optimized) / 80ms (outputs)

• Coating: Conformal coating (suffix B) – single-layer acrylic (slightly improved over A)

• Temp Range: 0°C to +60°C

• Mounting: 6U VME Eurocard, single-slot

• Diagnostics: Enhanced LED status per channel (input over-range/under-range, output fault/open-circuit, signal noise alert)

Advantages & Features

• Hybrid I/O capability – 4 analog inputs + 4 analog outputs on a single board, saving cabinet space and reducing overall board count

• B1 firmware offers improved accuracy (±0.08%), faster update (80ms), and built-in 50/60Hz noise filtering on inputs – a significant upgrade over standard A revisions

• Versatile signal support – inputs and outputs independently configurable for 4–20mA or 0–10V, compatible with most industrial transmitters and actuators

• Isolated channels reduce ground loop interference and protect the backplane from field wiring faults

• B-grade coating provides slightly better moisture and dust protection than A-grade for indoor installations

• Front-panel LEDs for per-channel status including signal noise detection alerts

• Compatible with Mark IV backplanes and some VIe systems (with adapter)

Application Cases

• Turbine inlet guide vane (IGV) position control – reading 4–20mA position feedback and outputting 4–20mA to positioner/actuator with noise filtering

• Fuel gas pressure control – reading pressure transmitter and outputting to control valve positioner requiring stable signal

• Steam pressure and flow control – reading transmitters and outputting to throttle or extraction valve positioners

• Lube oil pressure and temperature control – reading sensors and outputting to cooling water or bypass valves

• Retrofit projects upgrading from standard A firmware for better noise rejection and faster response

Competitor Comparison

• vs. DS3800HIOA1B1A (A coating): Better moisture resistance with B coating vs. A – otherwise identical specifications

• vs. DS3800HIOA (standard A variant): Improved accuracy (±0.08% vs. ±0.1%), faster update (80ms vs. 100ms), B coating, and built-in noise filtering with B1 firmware

• vs. DS3800HIMA1B1B (input-only): HIOA1B1B offers outputs in addition to inputs, but fewer total channels (4 in/4 out vs. 16 single-ended inputs on HIMB)

• vs. DS3800HOMB (output-only): HIOA1B1B offers inputs and outputs in a single board, reducing board count vs. separate HIMA + HOMB

• vs. DS3800HIMA1C1D (C1/D variant): HIOA has B1 firmware vs. C1’s advanced features; HIOA offers hybrid I/O but lower accuracy, slower speed, and less coating

• vs. DS3800HSCB (high-speed analog): HIOA is standard speed (80ms), HSCB offers faster scanning for dynamic signals

• vs. ABB TB711 : ABB offers higher resolution (14-bit) and PROFIBUS/Modbus communication, but lacks hybrid I/O on a single board

• vs. Siemens 7MH410 : Siemens offers HART protocol support on some variants, but GE HIOA1B1B offers hybrid I/O in one slot with B1 filtering

• vs. Woodward 8440-2015 : Woodward offers more flexible configuration software, but GE HIOA provides a compact hybrid solution

• vs. Honeywell 51304638 : Honeywell offers better long-term stability (±0.05%), but GE HIOA1B1B combines inputs and outputs with B1 diagnostics

Selection Suggestions

• Critical: Confirm input and output signal types (4–20mA or 0–10V) before installation – jumpers must match your transmitters and actuators

• Verify your backplane provides both +5V and +15V – this board requires both rails

• Assess channel count – 4 inputs and 4 outputs are suitable for small to medium control loops; for larger applications, consider multiple boards or separate HIMA/HOMB boards

• Evaluate if B1’s noise filtering and faster update rate are beneficial – particularly valuable near VFDs or in electrically noisy environments

• Determine accuracy requirement – 0.08% is sufficient for most turbine control loops

• Evaluate environmental conditions – B coating offers slightly better moisture resistance than A; upgrade to C/D/G/H for more demanding environments

• Order mating front connector (p/n may vary – confirm with GE)

• For critical applications, consider used/refurbished units with 90-day warranty or new-old-stock with calibration certificate

Precautions

• Critical: Do not exceed 30mA or ±30V on input channels – overvoltage may damage the ADC and isolation circuits

• Critical: Do not short-circuit output channels – outputs are protected but prolonged shorts may cause damage

• Critical: Use shielded twisted-pair cables for all analog inputs and outputs to avoid EMI – B1’s filtering helps but is not a substitute for good wiring practices

• Ensure field power supply (+24V DC) for loop-powered transmitters is stable and within specifications (if used)

• B1 firmware offers improved noise rejection on inputs – configure jumpers correctly for 50Hz or 60Hz based on your region

• B coating provides basic protection but is not suitable for frequent humidity, salt spray, or chemical exposure – upgrade to C/D/G/H if needed

• Allow 30-minute warm-up before calibration

• Store in ESD-safe packaging – edge connector is static-sensitive

• Periodically verify input and output calibration every 2 years against a certified reference

• Do not hot-swap – Mark IV backplanes require power-off for insertion/removal

• If replacing separate input and output boards, verify wiring and pinout compatibility – HIOA may differ from HIMA/HOMB series in pin assignments