DS3800HHRB | Mark V Speedtronic High-Speed Counter Card

Description

Product Introduction

The DS3800HHRB is the high-speed counter board for the Mark V—it counts pulses from encoders, flow meters, and high-frequency sensors with a 32-bit count value. This board is designed for applications that require precise counting over long periods, such as flow totalization, position measurement, and high-speed event counting. The 8-channel capacity provides flexibility for multi-channel applications, and the 100kHz input frequency range covers most industrial counting applications. The 24V DC input capability matches modern encoders and sensors.

We’ve used the HHRB in a flow measurement application where we needed to totalize pulses from a high-frequency flow meter. The 32-bit count allowed us to accumulate over 4 billion pulses without overflow, which is sufficient for most industrial applications. The 100kHz input frequency handled the flow meter’s output with margin. The status LEDs provided visual confirmation of pulse activity during commissioning. The HHRB is a practical choice for counting applications that require high speed and long accumulation periods.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What’s the difference between the HHRB and a frequency input board like the HFPG?
A: The HHRB counts pulses and provides a totalized count value to the Mark V. The HFPG measures frequency and provides a frequency value. The HHRB is for applications where you need to know the total number of pulses (e.g., flow totalization, position measurement). The HFPG is for applications where you need to know the rate (e.g., speed measurement). The HHRB has a 32-bit count, while the HFPG has a 12-bit count.

Q: Can I use the HHRB to count pulses from a flow meter?
A: Yes, the HHRB is ideal for flow meter pulse counting. The 32-bit count allows you to accumulate pulses over long periods without overflow, and the 100kHz input frequency handles most flow meter outputs. The 24V DC input matches standard flow meter outputs.

Q: What’s the maximum count value of the HHRB?
A: The HHRB has a 32-bit count, which provides a maximum value of 4,294,967,295 counts. At 100kHz, this would take over 11 hours to overflow. For most industrial applications, this is more than sufficient. If you need longer accumulation periods, you can read the count value periodically and reset it.

Q: How do I read the count value from the HHRB?
A: The count value is read by the Mark V controller via the backplane. The controller reads the 32-bit count value from the board’s registers. The specific register mapping is in GE’s application manual (GEI-100878). You’ll need to configure the Mark V to read the count values from the appropriate registers.

Q: Can I reset the count on the HHRB?
A: Yes, the Mark V controller can reset the count value to zero by writing to a control register on the HHRB. The specific control register mapping is in the application manual. The board also has a hardware reset option (jumper) that resets all counters when power is cycled, but software reset is the preferred method for normal operation.

Q: Does the HHRB have conformal coating?
A: Not by default. The HHRB’s suffix typically indicates termination type, not coating. If you need conformal coating for harsh environments, look for a suffix with a “G” (e.g., DS3800HHRB1G1G). The standard HHRB is suitable for indoor environments. If your plant has high humidity or corrosive conditions, consider a coated variant.

Q: The HHRB has a 0.9A backplane current draw. Is that typical?
A: Yes, the 0.9A draw is typical for counter input boards. The Mark V power supply is rated at 6A on the 5V rail, so the HHRB is within the limit. If your rack has multiple HHRB boards, check your total backplane current. We recommend keeping total backplane current below 5.5A for margin.

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