DS3800HCMP | OEM GE PLC Analog Output Module

Description

Product Introduction

You’ve been working with 8-channel output boards up to now, and you’ve probably wondered why GE didn’t double the channel count. The DS3800HCMP is the answer—a 16-channel analog output board that fits the same Mark V footprint as the 8-channel variants. This board was designed for applications where you need more outputs than inputs, such as driving multiple fuel control valves on larger gas turbines or managing vanes on a multi-stage compressor. The HCMP gives you twice the channel density, but with 12-bit resolution (not 14-bit like the HCMC) and no per-channel diagnostics.

We’ve installed the HCMP on units with up to 16 actuators and found it works well, but with one caveat: the 0.8A total aggregate load capacity. At 20mA per channel, the total current for 16 channels is 320mA, well under 0.8A. However, the 0.8A limit is across all channels—so if you’re driving high-current actuators or using 0-10V in 500Ω loads, you can run out of headroom quickly. The HCMP is a cost-effective solution for high-density output applications, but you need to plan your loads carefully. The board also lacks the diagnostic LEDs and 14-bit resolution of the HCMC—so you’re sacrificing troubleshooting convenience for density.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How does the HCMP fit 16 channels into the same footprint as an 8-channel board?
A: Denser packaging. The HCMP uses a higher-density connector and smaller terminal blocks. The backplane connector is the same physical footprint, but the pin assignments are different. The 16 channels are multiplexed internally, which is why the update rate is slightly slower (30ms vs 20ms on the HCMC). You can’t plug an HCMP into a slot that was wired for an 8-channel board without re-terminating the harness.

Q: The HCMP has 12-bit resolution. Why not 14-bit like the HCMC?
A: Space and power constraints. The 16-channel design requires more DACs and output drivers. GE chose 12-bit to keep the board within the 5V backplane current limit. A 14-bit design with 16 channels would have exceeded the 1A backplane power budget. If you need the higher resolution on a high-density output board, you’d need to move to a newer platform like the Mark VI. On the Mark V, the HCMP is your only option for 16 outputs.

Q: The aggregate load capacity is 0.8A. Can I drive all 16 channels at 20mA?
A: Yes. 16 channels × 20mA = 320mA, which is well under 0.8A. The 0.8A limit is really about voltage mode loads. In voltage mode (0-10V), the output impedance is about 2kΩ minimum, which draws only 5mA per channel. 16 × 5mA = 80mA, also well under 0.8A. So for typical 4-20mA or 0-10V loads, you won’t hit the aggregate limit. The limit matters if you’re driving non-standard loads—like a 4-20mA loop with a 500Ω resistor and a parallel indicator—but in standard applications, the board is rarely loaded to its full capacity.

Q: Does the HCMP have diagnostic LEDs like the HCMC?
A: No. The HCMP does not have per-channel diagnostic LEDs. This is a major difference from the HCMC. If you need fault detection, you’ll have to rely on the Mark V controller’s output feedback monitoring. If that’s not available, you’ll be troubleshooting with a multimeter. This is the trade-off for the 16-channel density. In our experience, the HCMC’s diagnostics are worth the loss of 8 channels in most maintenance environments.

Q: Can I use the HCMP as a drop-in replacement for an HCMB?
A: No. The backplane pinouts are different. The HCMP uses channels 9-16 on different pins. Even the first 8 channels are not mapped the same as an HCMB. You’ll need to rewire the terminal block and update the controller’s I/O mapping. This is not a quick swap. If you’re replacing an HCMB, your drop-in option is another 8-channel board—HCMB, HCMC, or HCIC. The HCMP is only appropriate if you’re adding capacity or redesigning a rack.

Q: How do I test the HCMP’s 16 outputs in the field?
A: You’ll need a multimeter and a signal source (the Mark V). Command each output to 4mA and 20mA, and measure at the terminal block. The 12-bit resolution means you should see about 8-10 counts per mA—so a 4mA signal will be about 819 counts (assuming 0-20mA scaling). If you have a data logger, monitor all 16 outputs simultaneously—we’ve seen the update rate vary slightly between banks, so check that all outputs update within the 30ms spec. The limited diagnostics on this board make functional testing critical before installation.

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