DS3800HIMA | Mark V Speedtronic High-Density Analog Card

Description

Product Introduction

The DS3800HIMA is the high-density analog input board for the Mark V—it brings 16 channels into a single slot, doubling the density of the 8-channel HCMA. This board is designed for applications where you have many analog signals and limited rack space. It accepts 4-20mA or 0-10V signals from field transmitters, with 12-bit resolution and per-channel configurability. The 16-channel capacity makes it ideal for turbine control applications where you need to monitor multiple temperature, pressure, and flow signals.

We’ve used the HIMA in a combined-cycle plant where we needed to monitor 32 analog signals from the gas turbine and heat recovery steam generator. Two HIMA boards in adjacent slots handled all 32 signals, freeing up rack space for other functions. The 12-bit resolution provided adequate accuracy for the plant’s control loops, and the per-channel configurability allowed us to mix 4-20mA and 0-10V signals on the same board. The HIMA is a practical choice for high-density analog input applications.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What’s the advantage of the HIMA over the HCMA?
A: The HIMA has 16 channels (twice the density of the HCMA’s 8 channels). This saves rack space and reduces the number of modules needed. The HIMA has 12-bit resolution, while the HCMA also has 12-bit resolution—the density is the primary difference. If you need higher resolution (14-bit), consider the HIMB variant.

Q: Can I mix 4-20mA and 0-10V signals on the same HIMA board?
A: Yes, the HIMA allows per-channel configuration via jumpers. Each channel has a jumper block that selects current or voltage mode. The board supports 4-20mA, 0-20mA, 0-10V, and ±10V inputs. Make sure to set the jumpers correctly for each channel before installation.

Q: What’s the scan rate of the HIMA?
A: The HIMA scans all 16 channels in about 25ms. The scan rate is the same as the 8-channel HCMA, despite having twice the channels. This is because the HIMA uses a multiplexed ADC that cycles through the channels at high speed.

Q: The HIMA has a 1.2A backplane current draw. Is that typical for a 16-channel analog board?
A: Yes, the 1.2A draw is typical for a 16-channel analog input board. The Mark V power supply is rated at 6A on the 5V rail, so the HIMA is within the limit. If your rack has multiple HIMA boards, check your total backplane current. We recommend keeping total backplane current below 5.5A for margin.

Q: Can I use the HIMA with a 4-20mA transmitter that requires loop power?
A: The HIMA does not provide loop power. You’ll need an external 24V DC power supply for the transmitter loops. The board’s 250Ω input impedance is compatible with most 4-20mA transmitters. If your transmitter requires a specific loop resistance, check the transmitter’s data sheet.

Q: Does the HIMA have conformal coating?
A: Not by default. The HIMA’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., DS3800HIMA1G1G). The standard HIMA is suitable for indoor environments. If your plant has high humidity or corrosive conditions, consider a coated variant.

Q: How do I test the HIMA’s accuracy in the field?
A: You can do a sanity check using a precision current source (like a Fluke 789) feeding 4mA and 20mA into a channel. Read the digital value in the Mark V’s diagnostic screen. At 4mA, you should see roughly 0% of range (2047 counts); at 20mA, 100% (4095 counts). If you’re off by more than ±5 counts, the board may need calibration. We recommend a full calibration every 2 years with a certified test set.

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