GE DS3800XTES

Key Parameters

• Function: Thermocouple and RTD signal simulation for testing and calibration

• Simulated Thermocouple Types: J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N (software-selectable)

• RTD Simulation: Pt100, Ni100 (resistance values programmable)

• Output Channels: 8 independent simulator channels

• Signal Accuracy: ±0.02% of simulated value

• Output Resolution: 16-bit DAC

• Cold-Junction Compensation Simulation: Programmable reference temperature

• Communication Interface: VMEbus or serial (for control from Mark IV system or external test equipment)

• Diagnostics: LED status per channel, output monitoring, self-test on power-up

• Isolation: 1500V RMS output-to-backplane

• Temp Range: –30°C to +70°C

• Physical: 6U VME single-slot board

• Key Features: 8 independent simulator channels, TC/RTD simulation, high accuracy, programmable CJC, isolation, self-test

Advantages

• Integrated calibration tool – the DS3800XTES provides a complete, built-in solution for testing temperature input channels without requiring external calibrators.

• Multi-type simulation – supports all common thermocouple types (J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N) and RTDs (Pt100, Ni100), making it versatile for different sensor applications.

• High accuracy – ±0.02% simulation accuracy ensures reliable verification of temperature measurement accuracy.

• Programmable reference – the General Electric DS3800XTES allows programming of cold-junction reference temperatures to simulate various ambient conditions.

• Multiple channels – 8 independent simulator channels allow simultaneous testing of multiple temperature input boards or channels.

• Diagnostic visibility – LED status and self-test on power-up simplify troubleshooting of the simulator itself.

• Isolation – 1500V RMS isolation protects the backplane from test equipment or accidental faults.

• Drop-in compatible – works with all Mark IV backplanes and processor configurations.

Applications

• Temperature channel validation – verifies that thermocouple and RTD input channels (e.g., on DS3800XTBA boards) are reading accurately.

• Loop testing – simulates sensor signals to test the entire measurement loop from the input board to the turbine control logic.

• Commissioning – the DS3800XTES is used during turbine commissioning to verify proper temperature sensor wiring and scaling.

• Periodic calibration – provides a repeatable, documented method for verifying temperature measurement accuracy during scheduled maintenance.

• Troubleshooting – isolates temperature measurement issues by ruling out sensor or wiring problems.

• Retrofits – the General Electric DS3800XTES facilitates testing when replacing or upgrading temperature input boards.

vs Competitors & Related Products

Selection Tips

• Calibration and testing needs – choose the DS3800XTES if your facility regularly performs temperature channel validation, commissioning, or troubleshooting and wants a built-in, repeatable test solution.

• Time savings – the General Electric DS3800XTES can significantly reduce testing time compared to using external calibrators on a channel-by-channel basis.

• Integration – the VME-mounted design allows test signals to be applied under software control, enabling automated test sequences.

• Channel count – 8 simulator channels are sufficient for testing multiple temperature input boards simultaneously.

• Sensor compatibility – verify that the thermocouple or RTD types used in your facility are supported by the DS3800XTES.

• Spare strategy – keep one DS3800XTES per facility (or per 5–8 installed temperature input boards) for maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Calibration – the DS3800XTES itself should be periodically verified against a traceable reference.

Critical Precautions

• Simulation output connection – disconnect the field sensor before connecting the DS3800XTES output to an input channel to avoid damaging the sensor or simulator.

• Voltage limits – do not apply external voltages to the General Electric DS3800XTES outputs; this can damage the output stage.

• Wiring polarity – observe correct polarity when connecting the DS3800XTES simulator outputs to input boards; reversed polarity produces inverted readings.

• Cold-junction simulation – when simulating thermocouple signals, ensure the programmed reference temperature matches the actual terminal block temperature of the input board, or use the input board’s CJC.

• Shielded cabling – use shielded cables for simulation connections to minimize noise pickup. Ground the shield only at the DS3800XTES end to prevent ground loops.

• Ground loops – ensure proper grounding when connecting the DS3800XTES to multiple input channels to avoid ground-loop currents that can affect accuracy.

• Self-test – allow the DS3800XTES to complete its power-up self-test (~2 seconds) before relying on simulation outputs.

• Calibration intervals – schedule periodic calibration verification of the DS3800XTES itself (every 12–18 months) against a traceable reference.

• Hot-swap – never insert or remove the DS3800XTES while the rack is powered; this can cause signal glitches or damage.

• ESD handling – always use a grounded wrist strap when handling the DS3800XTES; precision DACs and signal conditioning components are ESD-sensitive.

• Storage – store spare DS3800XTES boards in anti-static bags in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.