DS3800DMPK Mark IV | Replacement Memory Processor for GE

Description

Product Core Brief

• Model: DS3800DMPK
• Brand: GE (General Electric)
• Series: Mark IV Speedtronic Turbine Control System
• Core Function: Provides integrated memory processor and battery backup module for the Mark IV Speedtronic system.
• Type: Memory Processor Kit Module
• Key Specs: 2 MB memory; integrated battery; 16-bit processor; 1 ms processing cycle; 96-pin DIN backplane; LED status.
• Condition: New Original (New Surplus) — not refurbished.

Key Technical Specifications

• Function: Integrated memory processor and battery backup
• Processor: 16-bit (dedicated)
• Memory: 2 MB (battery-backed)
• Battery: 3.6 V lithium (integrated, field-replaceable)
• Processing Cycle: 1 ms
• Backplane Connector: 96-pin DIN (VME form factor)
• LED Indicators: Module status (green), processor activity (flashing), error (red)
• Operating Temperature: –30 to +65 °C ambient

Quality Inspection Process (SOP Transparency)

This is what every DS3800DMPK goes through before it ships:

Incoming Verification: The OEM packing slip is matched against the shipping manifest. Visual inspection includes checking the GE holographic label (or classic Speedtronic logo), verifying the 96-pin backplane connector is straight and has no bent pins, and examining the PCB for any signs of rework—flux residue, non-matching solder joints, or missing silkscreen. We also check the integrated battery—if it’s bulging or leaking, we replace it immediately.

Live Functional Test: The module installs in a Mark IV test rack with a backplane simulator and a known-good CPU module (CXCIA). Power-on self-check: the LED should illuminate green. We run a processor test by executing a series of memory operations (read, write, move, compare) and verifying the results.

We measure the processing cycle time by generating a continuous stream of memory operations and measuring the response time—must be <1 ms. We test the integrated battery backup by removing the power supply for 60 seconds, then re-applying power—the memory must retain the data.

Electrical Parameters: A Fluke 1587 insulation tester measures isolation between the memory processor interface and the backplane. We look for >20 MΩ at 500 VDC. Power consumption is measured at idle and at full processor load—must be <2.5 W.

Mechanical Inspection: The VME connector is inspected for bent pins. The integrated battery is checked for proper seating and voltage (3.6 V ±0.1 V).

Final QC & Packaging: The QC report lists the processor test results, the cycle time measurement, the battery voltage, and the isolation measurements. The module goes into a new anti-static bag with a tamper-evident seal, then into a double-walled carton with foam inserts. A “QC Passed” label with the test date and technician’s ID goes on the outer box. All test data and photos are available on request.

Field Replacement Pitfalls

The DS3800DMPK is the integrated memory processor kit. Here’s the field-tested list:

Integrated Battery Failure
The DMPK has an integrated 3.6 V lithium battery that backs up the memory. If the battery fails, the memory loses the data. ❗ Check the battery voltage before you install the module. It should be >3.5 V.

Battery Replacement
The integrated battery is field-replaceable, but it’s not a standard AA battery. I had a plant where a technician tried to replace the battery with a standard lithium battery—the voltage was wrong, and the memory was corrupted. ❗ Use the correct battery type: 3.6 V lithium. The battery spec is printed on the module label.

Memory Addressing Conflicts
The DMPK’s memory addresses must be configured to match the CPU’s memory map. ❗ Photograph the old module’s switch positions before removal.

Backplane Compatibility
The DMPK was used in multiple Mark IV cabinet revisions. ❗ Verify your backplane revision before installing a DMPK.

ESD Sensitivity
The DMPK has exposed components on the board. ❗ Wear the wrist strap.

Get these five right and you’ll cut rework time by 90%.

New Original vs. Refurbished: Why It Matters

The DS3800DMPK is a legacy integrated memory processor kit. Refurbishment risk is significant.

New Original (New Surplus) means this unit came from GE’s production line, sealed in an ESD-safe bag. The integrated battery is fresh, the processor is unused, and the module has zero operating hours. The serial number traces to GE’s production database.

Refurbished risk: The integrated battery and processor are the biggest issues. A refurbished DMPK may have been pulled from a decommissioned turbine with 50,000+ hours on it. The battery may be dead. I saw a refurbished DMPK in a plant that lost its memory after 6 months—the battery had failed. The refurbished module cost 900; the new surplus unit was 1,200. The plant lost critical processed data.

Real cost: A loss of memory processor data can affect data management and trend analysis. A new surplus module is cheap insurance.

What we provide: We include a photo of the OEM packing slip. The anti-static bag is sealed with a tamper-evident label. The QC test report lists the processor test, the cycle time measurement, the battery voltage, and the isolation measurements. You get a 12-month warranty.

Pricing context: Our price sits 30-50% above refurbished alternatives but 20-40% below GE’s current factory list price.

Performance Benchmarks & Test Results

Measured during our QC test. Conditions: test rack with a Mark IV backplane simulator and a CXCIA CPU module, 24.0 VDC supply (Fluke 8845A), ambient 24 °C.

• Processor Test: All memory operations (read, write, move, compare) completed without errors.
• Processing Cycle Time: 0.95 ms measured. Within the 1 ms spec.
• Battery Voltage: 3.62 V (fresh integrated battery). Within the 3.5-3.8 V spec.
• Data Retention: With power removed for 60 seconds, the memory retained the test pattern. After 24 hours, the memory still retained the test pattern.
• Power Draw: 1.8 W at idle. 2.2 W at full processor load. Within the 2.5 W max spec.
• Isolation Resistance (Memory Processor to Backplane): Measured 40 MΩ at 500 VDC—well above the 10 MΩ minimum.
• MTBF (Published): GE’s datasheet listed 230,000 hours at 40 °C for the DMPK. Based on field data, expect 15-20 years of service under normal conditions.

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