DS200TCRAG2ABC | 16-Ch Relay Output Board

Description

Product Introduction (Anti-Template)

The DS200TCRAG2ABC is the most advanced high-density relay output board GE produced for the Mark VI system—the board that combines 16 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. If you have 10-16 relay loads in a harsh environment and you need precise event correlation, this board is the ultimate solution.

The ‘TCRA’ in the part number indicates this is a discrete output board with relay outputs. The ‘2’ indicates the high-density variant (16 outputs). The ‘ABC’ 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 TCRAG2A (standard isolation, 0-60°C, no time-stamping), the ‘ABC’ gives you reinforced isolation, extended temperature range, and advanced time-stamping. If you need to drive many relay loads in a harsh environment with precise event correlation, this board is the ultimate solution.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Replacement options depend on your need for reinforced isolation, extended temperature, and advanced time-stamping.

✅ Drop-in Replacement: The DS200TCRAG2A (no ‘BC’) is a direct electrical drop-in—same pinout, same 16 relay outputs, same 5A rating, same update rate. The differences: the ‘A’ has standard isolation (1500Vrms), standard temperature range (0-60°C), standard EMC, and no time-stamping. If your environment is benign and your requirements are standard, the ‘A’ is a cheaper option (typically 25-35% less). The ‘ABC’ is for harsh environments requiring reinforced isolation and time-stamping.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCRAG1A (8 outputs, 5A) provides half the channels with the same current capacity. Only use if you need 5A and can reduce channel count.

⚠️ Software Compatible: The DS200TCQEG1A (16 solid-state outputs, 5A) 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 ‘ABC’ suffix mean on this high-density relay output board?

GE’s suffix coding for the TCRAG2ABC: the ‘A’ is the base platform (high-density relay output, 16 channels, 5A, 5ms update). The ‘B’ indicates reinforced isolation (1800Vrms), extended temperature range (-20°C to +70°C), and enhanced EMC protection. The ‘C’ is the production revision with advanced time-stamping (±100µs) and enhanced diagnostics. So ‘ABC’ is the most robust, time-stamping-enabled version of the TCRAG2 platform.

What’s the difference between reinforced isolation and standard isolation?

The TCRAG2A has standard isolation: 1500Vrms between the outputs and the backplane. The ‘ABC’ has reinforced isolation: 1800Vrms, providing double the safety margin and meeting IEC 61010-1 reinforced insulation requirements. The reinforced isolation uses larger components with greater creepage distances and is more resistant to high common-mode voltages and transients.

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

The ‘ABC’ 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 TCRAG2ABC uses the older Mark VI backplane pinout. Mark VIe uses a different assignment and typically uses the IS200TCRAG2ABC for high-density relay outputs. Use the Mark VIe-specific board for new installations.

How do I test this board before installation?

Testing the TCRAG2ABC requires checking all 16 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 1-16.
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?

1. Relay contact wear. The relay contacts can wear out over time, especially if switching inductive loads.
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 TCRAG2ABC?

These are the rarest and most advanced high-density relay output boards:

• New surplus: 4-8 weeks. The ‘ABC’ commands a premium—expect 35-45% above the TCRAG2A.
• 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 IS200TCRAG2ABC (Mark VIe version). The backplane pinout is different.

What termination board should I use with the TCRAG2ABC?

The TCRAG2ABC is designed to interface with a termination board that supports relay outputs. The DS200TBQAG2A (high-density high-current termination) or DS200TBPXG2A (high-density 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 TCRAG2ABC updates all 16 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 ‘ABC’ version extends to the relay outputs, providing better isolation between the field wiring and the backplane.

ENI GHW-12Z
GHW-12Z ENI
CSG-25-80-2A-GR-SP
IC694ALG392