GE DS3800NFEE1C1B

Key Technical Parameters

Advantages and Distinctive Features

• High-Current Relays: The DS3800NFEE1C1B is equipped with 5A mechanical relays, offering superior surge handling for large AC/DC fans. This makes the board ideal for cabinets with high-power blowers that exceed the 2A capacity of solid-state alternatives.

• Enhanced Firmware (Revision C): The 1C suffix brings improved cold-junction compensation algorithms, reducing temperature measurement error from ±2°C to ±1°C compared to earlier revisions of the DS3800NFEE.

• Extended Temperature Range: The “1B” suffix indicates premium -20°C to +65°C components, allowing the DS3800NFEE1C1B to perform reliably in outdoor or poorly climate-controlled environments.

• Simplicity and Reliability: Without tachometer or PID complexity, the DS3800NFEE1C1B has fewer failure points. Its relay-based design provides complete galvanic isolation between the control logic and fan power circuits.

• Individual Relay Status Monitoring: Each relay channel includes a feedback circuit that verifies contact closure, allowing the DS3800NFEE1C1B to generate a “Relay Fault” alarm if a relay fails to actuate properly.

Typical Application Fields

• Steam Turbine Auxiliary Cabinets: Where large 115VAC exhaust fans (1/2 HP or more) require high inrush current handling that the DS3800NFEE1C1B can safely manage.

• Gas Turbine Control Rooms: Secondary racks housing non-critical I/O modules, where simple on/off cooling is sufficient.

• Marine or Offshore Platforms: The extended temperature range and conformal coating on the DS3800NFEE1C1B make it suitable for high-humidity, salt-spray environments.

• Hydroelectric Plants: Retrofitting older Mark V cabinets with the DS3800NFEE1C1B to replace aging fan relay panels.

Comparison with Related Models

Selection Recommendations

• Choose the DS3800NFEE1C1B if:

  • Your fans draw high inrush current (>3A peak) or operate at 115VAC with 1/2 HP motors.

  • You need simple, reliable on/off temperature control without speed feedback.

  • Your cabinet experiences temperature extremes (e.g., outdoor installations).

  • You prefer mechanical isolation for troubleshooting and maintenance.

• Choose the DS3800NFEC1B1B if: You require variable speed control, redundant tachometer feedback, and advanced fault logging—even at a higher cost.

• Choose the base DS3800NFEE if: Your fans are low-power and your cabinet environment is climate-controlled.

Critical Precautions

• ESD Protection: The DS3800NFEE1C1B contains sensitive CMOS components on its ADC and logic circuits. Always wear a grounded ESD wrist strap when handling.

• Relay Contact Wear: Mechanical relays on the DS3800NFEE1C1B are rated for 100,000 operations at 5A resistive load. For frequent cycling (e.g., rapid temperature fluctuations), consider derating the current or using the solid-state DS3800NFEC1B1B.

• Thermocouple Polarity: Incorrect wiring will produce negative temperature readings. Use only thermocouple-grade extension wire (e.g., KX for Type K) to avoid cold-junction errors.

• No Hot-Swap: Always depower the Mark V rack before inserting or removing the DS3800NFEE1C1B. Backplane arcing can permanently damage connectors.

• Slot Assignment: Install the DS3800NFEE1C1B only in auxiliary I/O slots (typically slots 8–10) per your rack configuration. Inserting it into a CPU slot can cause bus conflicts and damage.

• Output Load Testing: After replacement, test each relay channel by forcing outputs ON via the Mark V diagnostic menu. Verify actual fan rotation and monitor the DS3800NFEE1C1B‘s “Relay Fault” LED for any failed closure detection.

• Firmware Compatibility: The Revision C firmware on the DS3800NFEE1C1B is fully compatible with Mark V CPU firmware v4.0 and above. For older v3.x systems, check with GE before upgrading.