DS200TCQAG1 | 16-Ch Discrete I/O Board

Description

Product Introduction (Anti-Template)

The DS200TCQAG1 is a different approach to discrete I/O—it combines both inputs and outputs on a single board, giving you 8 discrete inputs and 8 discrete outputs in one VME slot. This is the board you use when you have a small cluster of contact sensors and contactor/relay loads on the same skid and you want to save rack space.

The ‘TCQA’ in the part number indicates this is a discrete input board (the ‘G’ variant includes outputs). The base model (no suffix) has 8 inputs and 8 outputs with relay outputs, 12-bit resolution on the outputs, and a 10ms update rate. The board is designed for applications where you have a small number of discrete devices in close proximity—like a compact turbine package with limit switches and solenoid drivers. It’s not for high-speed applications (that’s where the TCQAF1 series excels), but it’s a space-saver for smaller installations.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

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

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCQAG1A (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 DS200TCQAF1B (16 inputs only) provides inputs only—no outputs. Only use if you don’t need outputs.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCQBF1B (16 outputs only) provides outputs only—no inputs.

❌ Hardware Incompatible: Any analog I/O board (TCCAG1 series) uses different backplane pins and is not suitable for discrete signals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between the TCQAG1 and using separate TCQAF1 and TCQBF1 boards?

Using separate boards gives you 16 inputs and 16 outputs with faster update rates and more channels. The TCQAG1 gives you 8 inputs and 8 outputs in one slot with relay outputs and a slower update rate. The TCQAG1 saves a VME slot but sacrifices channel count and speed. If you have a small skid with limited rack space, the TCQAG1 is a space-saver. If you need high channel count or fast update, use the separate boards.

What type of outputs does this board have?

The TCQAG1 has relay outputs (Form C contacts). Each output has a normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contact, rated for 5A at 250VAC or 5A at 30VDC. This is suitable for driving solenoids, contactors, and pilot relays. The relays are field-replaceable (plug-in type). If you need solid-state outputs, you’ll need a different board.

Can I use this board with a Mark VIe controller?

No—the TCQAG1 uses the older Mark VI backplane pinout. Mark VIe uses a different assignment and typically uses the IS200TCQAG1 for discrete I/O. Use the Mark VIe-specific board for new installations.

How do I test this board before installation?

Testing the TCQAG1 requires checking both inputs and outputs:

1. Visual inspection: Check for burnt components. Look for relay wear (if used board).
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. Input test: Apply 24V DC to input 1—the controller should read ON. Remove voltage—OFF. Repeat for inputs 1-8.
5. Output test: Command output 1 ON—verify relay closes (measure continuity across contacts). Command OFF—verify relay opens. Repeat for outputs 1-8.
6. Voltage range test: Verify each input’s threshold is within spec.
7. Update rate test: Verify the board updates at 10ms intervals.
8. Isolation test: Measure resistance between inputs and outputs—should be >10MΩ.

What’s the most common failure on this board?

Two issues specific to the discrete I/O design:

1. Relay contact wear. The relay contacts can wear out over time, especially if switching inductive loads (solenoids, contactors). Symptom: output doesn’t close or exhibits high contact resistance.
2. Input optocoupler failure. The optocouplers can fail due to voltage spikes. Symptom: one input reads ON all the time or never reads ON.

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

The combined I/O and relay outputs make this board suitable for SIL-1 applications (not SIL-2 or SIL-3). We recommend:

• Visual inspection: Every 6 months (check relay contacts for wear)
• Power-up test: Every 12 months
• Input test: Every 12 months
• Output test: Every 12 months (verify relay operation)
• Isolation check: Every 2 years
• Full calibration: Every 5 years

What’s the lead time for a replacement TCQAG1?

These boards are less common than single-function boards:

• New surplus: 3-6 weeks.
• Refurbished: 2-3 weeks. Ensure the refurbisher tests both inputs and outputs.
• Used/as-is: High risk. The relays are wear items.

Is there a direct Mark VIe equivalent?

Yes—the IS200TCQAG1 (Mark VIe version). The backplane pinout is different.

What termination board should I use with the TCQAG1?

The TCQAG1 is designed to interface with a termination board that supports both discrete inputs and outputs. The DS200TBPXG1A (mixed-signal termination) or DS200TBAAG1A (discrete input termination) can be used for the inputs, but for the outputs you need a termination board with relay output terminals. You would need a custom termination panel or use separate termination boards for each function.

What’s the update rate for this board?

The TCQAG1 updates all 16 channels simultaneously at 10ms intervals—100Hz update rate. This is slower than the dedicated discrete boards (5ms).

What’s the maximum load for the relay outputs?

The relay outputs are rated for 5A at 250VAC or 5A at 30VDC. For inductive loads (solenoids, contactors), derate to 2A or use an external snubber circuit to protect the relay contacts. The relay contacts are field-replaceable.

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