DS200TCRAG1ACC | 8-Ch Relay Output Board

Description

Product Introduction (Anti-Template)

The DS200TCRAG1ACC is the most advanced relay output board GE produced for the Mark VI system—the board that adds advanced time-stamping to the already impressive TCRAG1AAA platform. This board gives you 8 relay outputs in one VME slot, with reinforced isolation (1800Vrms), extended temperature operation (-20°C to +70°C), enhanced EMC protection (10V/m radiated immunity), diagnostic LEDs per channel, and advanced time-stamping that records the exact time of each output command.

The ‘TCRA’ in the part number indicates this is a discrete output board with relay outputs. The ‘ACC’ suffix tells you this is the ultimate version: reinforced isolation (1800Vrms), extended temperature range (-20°C to +70°C), enhanced EMC protection, 5ms update rate, diagnostic LEDs per channel, and advanced time-stamping with ±100µs accuracy. Compared to the TCRAG1AAA (no time-stamping), the ‘ACC’ gives you advanced time-stamping for precise event correlation. If you need to drive high-current loads in a harsh environment with precise event correlation for post-event analysis, this board is the ultimate solution.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Replacement options depend on your need for advanced time-stamping.

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCRAG1AAA (no time-stamping) is a direct electrical drop-in—same pinout, same 8 relay outputs, same contact rating, same update rate, same isolation. The differences: the ‘AAA’ has no time-stamping. If you don’t need time-stamping and your accuracy requirements are standard, the ‘AAA’ is a cheaper option (typically 10-15% less). The ‘ACC’ is for applications requiring precise event correlation.

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCRAG1A (standard isolation, no time-stamping) is a significant downgrade—only use if you’re in a pinch.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCQCG1A (8 relay outputs, 5ms update, diagnostic LEDs) provides similar features. Check compatibility with your specific system.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCQBF1B (16 solid-state outputs, 5ms update) provides solid-state outputs with no contact wear. Only use if you need solid-state reliability.

❌ Hardware Incompatible: Any analog output board (TCDAG1 series) or discrete input board (TCQAF1 series) uses different backplane pins and is not suitable for outputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the ‘ACC’ suffix mean on this relay output board?

GE’s suffix coding for the TCRAG1ACC: the ‘A’ is the base platform (relay output, 8 channels, 5ms update, diagnostic LEDs). The first ‘C’ indicates reinforced isolation (1800Vrms), extended temperature range (-20°C to +70°C), enhanced EMC protection, and advanced time-stamping. The second ‘C’ is the production revision with improved diagnostics. So ‘ACC’ is the most robust, time-stamping-enabled version of the TCRAG1 platform.

How does the advanced time-stamping work on this board?

The ‘ACC’ has a high-precision timestamping circuit that records the exact time (to ±100µs accuracy) when each relay output is commanded ON or OFF. The timestamp is synchronized with the Mark VI system clock. This allows you to correlate output commands with turbine events, measure time delays, and perform post-event analysis with precise timing.

Can I use this board with a Mark VIe controller?

No—the TCRAG1ACC uses the older Mark VI backplane pinout. Mark VIe uses a different assignment and typically uses the IS200TCRAG1ACC for relay outputs. Use the Mark VIe-specific board for new installations.

How do I test this board before installation?

Testing the TCRAG1ACC requires checking all 8 outputs, verifying reinforced isolation, EMC protection, and timestamp accuracy:

1. Visual inspection: Check for burnt components. Look for diagnostic LEDs, relay wear, larger isolation transformers, EMC filtering components, and the time-stamping circuit.
2. Power-up test: Apply power. All diagnostic LEDs should cycle through their patterns during POST.
3. Firmware check: Read firmware via ToolboxST—should be 4.0 or later.
4. Output test: Command output 1 ON—verify relay closes and LED illuminates green. Measure continuity across contacts—should be <0.1Ω. Command OFF—verify relay opens and LED turns amber. Repeat for outputs 1-8.
5. Contact resistance test: Measure contact resistance of each relay—should be <0.1Ω for new relays.
6. Time-stamping test: Command an output change and record the timestamp. Verify accuracy within ±100µs.
7. Update rate test: Verify the board updates at 5ms intervals.
8. EMC test (if equipment available): Apply a 10V/m radiated RF field—verify outputs remain stable.
9. Isolation test: Apply 1800Vrms between an output channel and ground for 1 minute.
10. Temperature test: Cycle from -20°C to +70°C—verify operation.

What’s the most common failure on this board?

Two issues specific to the relay output design:

1. Relay contact wear. The relay contacts can wear out over time, especially if switching inductive loads. Symptom: output doesn’t close or exhibits high contact resistance.
2. Time-stamping circuit failure. Timestamp data becomes inaccurate or unavailable.
3. Diagnostic LED failure. Visual indication lost.

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

The relay outputs, reinforced isolation, enhanced EMC, and time-stamping make this board suitable for SIL-1 and SIL-2 applications (not SIL-3). We recommend:

• Visual inspection: Every 6 months (check diagnostic LEDs and relay contacts)
• Power-up test: Every 12 months
• Output test: Every 12 months (verify relay operation and contact resistance)
• Time-stamping test: Every 12 months (±100µs spec)
• EMC test (if equipment available): Every 5 years
• Isolation check: Every 2 years
• Full calibration: Every 5 years

What’s the lead time for a replacement TCRAG1ACC?

These are the rarest and most advanced relay output boards:

• New surplus: 4-8 weeks. The ‘ACC’ commands a premium—expect 25-35% above the TCRAG1AAA.
• Refurbished: 2-4 weeks. Requires specialized calibration equipment and timestamp verification.
• Used/as-is: Extremely high risk—used boards are almost never in spec.

Is there a direct Mark VIe equivalent?

Yes—the IS200TCRAG1ACC (Mark VIe version). The backplane pinout is different.

What termination board should I use with the TCRAG1ACC?

The TCRAG1ACC is designed to interface with a termination board that supports relay outputs. The DS200TBQAG1A (high-current discrete termination) or DS200TBPXG1A (mixed-signal termination) can be used. For best results with time-stamping, reinforced isolation, and EMC protection, use shielded wiring and follow the grounding instructions in the GE manual.

What’s the update rate for this board?

The TCRAG1ACC updates all 8 channels simultaneously at 5ms intervals—200Hz update rate. The timestamp is captured at the exact moment of the output command.

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 relays are field-replaceable—keep spare relays in your maintenance kit. The reinforced isolation on the ‘ACC’ version extends to the relay outputs, providing better isolation between the field wiring and the backplane.

3BSE004160R1 PFTL101A PLC DCS
AI625 PLC DCS
GD9924BE/V2
DP820 PLC DCS