DS200TCEBG1 | GE Mark VI I/O Board

Description

Product Introduction (Anti-Template)

The DS200TCEBG1 is a specialized board that solves a specific problem: you have a temperature transmitter and an actuator on the same skid, and you want to control them both from a single slot. This board combines 4 thermocouple inputs with 4 analog outputs (with HART) in one VME slot—a unique combination that saves rack space in compact turbine packages.

The ‘CEB’ in the part number indicates this is a combined thermocouple input and analog output board. The base model (no suffix) has 12-bit resolution on the outputs, ±0.5°C accuracy on the thermocouple inputs, and a 20ms update rate. The board is designed for applications where you have a small number of temperature sensors and actuators in close proximity—like a single valve with a positioner and a thermocouple on the same loop. It’s not for high-precision applications (that’s where the TCCBG1 series excels), but it’s a space-saver for smaller turbine packages.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Replacement options depend on your need for HART and combined I/O.

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCEBG1A (if available) would be the ‘A’ revision. As of this writing, the base model is the only version. Always verify the specific suffix before ordering.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCCBG1A (8 TC inputs, 16-bit, no outputs) provides thermocouple inputs only—no analog outputs. Only use if you don’t need analog outputs.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCDAG1A (8 outputs, 14-bit, HART) provides analog outputs only—no thermocouple inputs.

❌ Hardware Incompatible: The DS200TCCAG1A (general-purpose analog inputs) is not suitable for thermocouple signals—it cannot handle the ±100mV range or provide CJC compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between the TCEBG1 and using separate TCCBG1A and TCDAG1A boards?

Using separate boards gives you 8 TC inputs and 8 outputs with 16-bit resolution and better accuracy. The TCEBG1 gives you 4 TC inputs and 4 outputs in one slot, with 14-bit outputs, lower accuracy, and slower update rate. The TCEBG1 saves a VME slot but sacrifices performance. If you have a small skid with limited rack space, the TCEBG1 is a space-saver. If you need high accuracy or a high channel count, use the separate boards.

Does HART work on the inputs or only on the outputs?

HART communication is available on the 4 output channels only. The thermocouple inputs do not support HART (thermocouples are passive sensors that don’t communicate). If you need HART on input channels, you would need to use a separate TCCAG1A combined with a TCDAG1B.

Can I use this board with a Mark VIe controller?

No—the TCEBG1 uses the older Mark VI backplane pinout. Mark VIe uses a different assignment and typically uses the IS200TCEBG1 for combined thermocouple output boards. Use the Mark VIe-specific board for new installations.

How do I test this board before installation?

Testing the TCEBG1 requires checking both thermocouple inputs and analog outputs:

1. Visual inspection: Check for burnt components. Look for CJC sensor and HART modem ICs.
2. Power-up test: Apply power. The board’s status LED (green) should illuminate within 2 seconds.
3. Firmware check: Read firmware via ToolboxST—should be 2.0 or later.
4. TC input test: Apply 10.00mV (equivalent to about 250°C on Type K) to input 1—read 250°C ± 0.5°C. Repeat for inputs 1-4.
5. CJC test: With no thermocouple connected, read the CJC temperature. It should match ambient within ±1°C.
6. Output test – voltage: Command 5.00V on output 1—measure 5.00V ± 0.015V (0.30%). Test at 0V, 5V, 10V. Repeat for outputs 1-4.
7. Output test – current: Command 12.00mA, connect 250Ω resistor—measure 3.00V ± 0.009V.
8. HART test: Connect a HART device to output 1. Verify communication.
9. Isolation test: Measure resistance between channels—should be >10MΩ.

What’s the most common failure on this board?

Two issues specific to the combined thermocouple/output design:

1. CJC sensor drift. The single shared CJC sensor can drift, causing offsets on all 4 thermocouple inputs. Symptom: all TC readings are off by the same amount.
2. Mixed signal interference. Thermocouple signals and analog outputs on the same board can interfere if isolation fails. Symptom: TC reading jumps when output changes.

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

The lower accuracy and slower update rate make this board suitable for SIL-1 applications (not SIL-2 or SIL-3). We recommend:

• Visual inspection: Every 6 months
• Power-up test: Every 12 months
• TC accuracy check: Every 12 months (0.5°C spec)
• Output accuracy check: Every 12 months (0.30% spec)
• CJC check: Every 12 months
• HART test: Every 12 months
• Isolation check: Every 2 years
• Full calibration: Every 5 years

What’s the lead time for a replacement TCEBG1?

These boards are less common than standard I/O boards:

• New surplus: 3-6 weeks. Specialized board with moderate availability.
• Refurbished: 2-3 weeks. Ensure the refurbisher tests both TC inputs and outputs.
• Used/as-is: High risk. The CJC sensor is a wear item.

Is there a direct Mark VIe equivalent?

Yes—the IS200TCEBG1 (Mark VIe version). The backplane pinout is different.

What termination board should I use with the TCEBG1?

The TCEBG1 is designed to interface with a termination board that supports both thermocouple inputs and analog outputs. The DS200TBCAG1A (general-purpose analog) can be used for the outputs, but for the thermocouple inputs you need the DS200TBCBG1A termination board. You would need a custom termination panel that combines both boards or use separate termination boards for each function.

What’s the update rate for inputs and outputs?

The TCEBG1 updates all 8 channels simultaneously at 20ms intervals—50Hz update rate. This is slower than the dedicated boards (5-10ms) and a limitation of the combined design.

What’s the maximum load for voltage mode?

The TCEBG1 can drive up to 10mA in voltage mode—sufficient for most actuator inputs. At 10V output, this means a minimum load resistance of 1kΩ.

EPRO PR6424/010-000
EPRO PR6423/00R-010+CON02 PLC DCS
EPRO PR9268/300-000 PLC DCS