DS200TCDAG2B | 16-Ch Analog Output Board

Description

Product Introduction (Anti-Template)

When you need more than 8 analog outputs in a single Mark VI slot, the DS200TCDAG2B is your only option. This board packs 16 analog outputs into the same 6U footprint as the TCDAG1 series, with integrated HART communication on all channels—a unique combination of high density and smart actuator support. The trade-off? Resolution drops to 14-bit (versus 16-bit), accuracy is ±0.15% (versus ±0.04% on the TCDAG1BDB), and the update rate is slower (10ms vs. 5ms).

The ‘2’ in the part number tells you this is the high-density variant in the TCDAG family. The ‘B’ suffix indicates the HART-enabled version, distinguishing it from the non-HART TCDAG2A (if it existed). Compared to the TCDAG1B (8 channels, 16-bit, ±0.05% accuracy, HART), the TCDAG2B gives you twice the channels with 14-bit resolution, ±0.15% accuracy, and the same HART communication capability—but at a slower update rate and lower per-channel precision. If you have 9-16 analog outputs and you need HART communication on all of them, this is the board that fits in a single slot.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Replacement options depend on your channel count, resolution, and HART requirements.

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCDAG2 (no ‘B’ suffix) is a direct drop-in with identical 16 channels and pinout, but without HART communication capability. If you don’t need HART, the non-‘B’ version is a cheaper option (typically 15-20% less). The ‘B’ revision adds the HART modems and associated circuitry.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCDAG1B (8 channels, 16-bit, HART) fits the rack but has a different channel count and pinout. If you swap a TCDAG2B for a TCDAG1B, you’ll lose channels 9-16 (they’ll show as invalid or open circuit). You would need to re-wire your termination panel to use the TCDAG1B’s 8 channels. This is a downgrade, not an upgrade.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCDAG1BCB (8 channels, 16-bit, HART, reinforced isolation) is a higher-precision alternative—but you lose half your channels. Only use if your channel count drops below 9.

❌ Hardware Incompatible: Any thermocouple input board (TCCBG1 series) or discrete I/O board (TCDX series) uses different backplane pins and is not suitable for analog outputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between the TCDAG2B and the TCDAG1B?

The TCDAG1B is a precision board: 8 channels, 16-bit resolution, ±0.05% accuracy, HART, 5ms update, 0-70°C. The TCDAG2B is a high-density board: 16 channels, 14-bit resolution, ±0.15% accuracy, HART, 10ms update, 0-60°C. The trade-off is clear: channel count vs. precision and speed. The TCDAG2B is for applications with many actuators that don’t require the highest precision—general valve positioning vs. critical fuel control.

How does HART communication work on the TCDAG2B with 16 channels?

Each of the 16 channels has an integrated HART modem that communicates with smart actuators over the 4-20mA loop. The board uses a shared HART communication bus with time-division multiplexing—it communicates with one channel at a time, cycling through all 16 channels. The HART update rate is slower than the analog output update (about 1 second per channel for a complete command/response cycle). For applications requiring continuous HART feedback on all channels, this can be a limitation—the TCDAG2B is best suited for periodic HART polling rather than continuous burst mode on all channels simultaneously.

Can I use this board with a Mark VIe controller?

No—the TCDAG2B uses the older Mark VI backplane pinout. Mark VIe uses a different assignment and typically uses the IS200TCDAG2B for high-density analog outputs. Use the Mark VIe-specific board for new installations.

How do I test this board before installation?

Testing the TCDAG2B requires checking all 16 channels and the HART functionality:

1. Visual inspection: Check for burnt or discolored components. Look for the HART modem ICs (one per channel)—the board has 16 of them, which is a good visual indicator of the ‘B’ revision.
2. Power-up test: Install the board in a test rack and apply power. The board’s status LED (green) should illuminate within 2 seconds. If the LED is red or flashing, there’s a firmware or hardware issue.
3. Firmware check: Read the firmware version via ToolboxST—should be 4.0 or later.
4. Output test – voltage: Configure channel 1 for 0-10V. Command 5.00V. Measure the output—should be 5.00V ± 0.0075V (0.15% of full scale). Test at 0V, 5V, and 10V. Repeat for channels 1-16.
5. Output test – current: Configure for 4-20mA. Command 12.00mA. Connect a 250Ω resistor—measure 3.00V ± 0.0045V (12.00mA ± 0.018mA). Repeat for all channels.
6. HART test: Connect a HART-compatible actuator or simulator to one channel. Verify the controller can read the device’s configuration and position data.
7. Load test: Connect a 1kΩ load (voltage) or 500Ω load (current) and verify output stays within spec.
8. Isolation test: Measure resistance between output channels—should be >10MΩ.

What’s the most common failure on this board?

Two issues specific to the high-density HART design:

1. HART modem failure. With 16 HART modems on one board, the failure rate is higher than the TCDAG1B (which has 8). The symptom: one channel’s HART communication fails while the analog output still works. The modem is not field-replaceable.
2. Multiplexer failure. The TCDAG2B uses a multiplexer to handle the analog output updates—if it fails, you’ll get erratic outputs on specific channels.

If I’m using this board in a SIL-rated safety application, what’s the recommended maintenance interval?

The TCDAG2B’s reduced accuracy (±0.15%) and shared HART bus make it suitable for SIL-1 and SIL-2 applications (not SIL-3). We recommend:

• Visual inspection: Every 6 months
• Power-up test: Every 12 months
• Output accuracy check: Every 12 months (0.15% spec)
• HART test: Every 12 months (verify communication with at least one HART device)
• Full calibration: Every 5 years

What’s the lead time for a replacement TCDAG2B?

These boards are less common than the TCDAG1B:

• New surplus: 3-6 weeks. The high-density HART board is specialized—expect a moderate premium.
• Refurbished: 2-3 weeks. Ensure the refurbisher tests all 16 HART modems—some only test a subset.
• Used/as-is: High risk. The 16 HART modems are wear items—used boards may have failed modems.

Is there a direct Mark VIe equivalent?

Yes—the IS200TCDAG2B (Mark VIe version). The backplane pinout is different. If you’re migrating to Mark VIe, plan to replace all high-density analog output boards as part of the rack conversion.

What termination board should I use with the TCDAG2B?

The TCDAG2B is designed to interface with the DS200TBCAG2A (high-density analog termination) or the DS200TBPAG2A (if it exists). The termination board provides the terminal connections for the 16 analog outputs. The HART communication works through the same 4-20mA wiring. Verify your termination board supports the 16-channel configuration.

What’s the maximum load for current mode?

In current mode (4-20mA), the TCDAG2B can drive a load of up to 500Ω—less than the TCDAG1B’s 750Ω due to the higher channel density and shared power. The output voltage compliance is about 12V (at 20mA into 500Ω). If you need to drive a higher load, you’ll need a separate signal conditioner or an external loop supply.

What’s the update rate for all 16 channels?

The TCDAG2B updates all 16 channels simultaneously at 10ms intervals—100Hz update rate. This is half the speed of the TCDAG1B (5ms), which is a trade-off for the higher channel count. The 10ms update rate is still sufficient for most valve control applications, but if you’re controlling fast-acting valves, the TCDAG1B series is the better choice.

What’s the HART update rate on this board?

The HART communication operates independently of the analog output update, but with 16 channels sharing the HART bus, the effective update rate per channel is slower. Expect about 1-2 seconds per channel for a complete command/response cycle. The board supports both command/response mode (polling) and burst mode (continuous data from the actuator). For burst mode on multiple channels, the performance will degrade as more channels are added—the TCDAG2B is best suited for periodic HART polling rather than continuous burst mode.

What’s the difference between the TCDAG2B and the TCDAG2 (base model)?

The base TCDAG2 (no ‘B’ suffix) has 16 analog outputs without HART communication. The TCDAG2B adds the HART modems. If you don’t need HART, the base model is a cheaper option. If you need HART, the ‘B’ revision is required—there is no ‘A’ version with HART in the ‘2’ series.

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