DS3800HIMA1A1B | Full Suffix Mark V High-Density Analog Card

Description

Product Introduction

The DS3800HIMA1A1B is the high-density analog input board in the baseline screw-clamp configuration with mixed fusing—0.5A on Bank 1 and 0.8A on Bank 2. This board brings 16 analog input channels into a single Mark V slot, and the mixed fusing allows you to match protection to different types of transmitters or cable runs. The 0.5A fuses are suitable for standard 4-20mA transmitters that draw minimal current, while the 0.8A fuses provide more headroom for transmitters with higher inrush or longer cable runs.

We’ve used the HIMA1A1B in a refinery application where we monitored 16 pressure and temperature transmitters on a distillation column. The 0.5A bank was used for the short cable runs (under 50 meters), and the 0.8A bank was used for the longer runs (over 100 meters). The screw-clamp terminals made field wiring easy, and the 12-bit resolution provided adequate accuracy for the process control loops. The board’s per-channel configurability allowed us to mix 4-20mA and 0-10V signals on the same board.

Key Technical Specifications

Compatible Replacement Models

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why does the HIMA1A1B have mixed fusing (0.5A and 0.8A)?
A: The mixed fusing allows you to match protection to different types of transmitters or cable runs. The 0.5A bank is suitable for standard 4-20mA transmitters on shorter cable runs (under 50 meters). The 0.8A bank is for transmitters with higher inrush or longer cable runs (over 100 meters). The transmitters themselves draw only 20mA each—it’s the cable capacitance that can cause inrush currents.

Q: Can I mix 4-20mA and 0-10V signals on the same HIMA1A1B board?
A: Yes, the HIMA1A1B 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 HIMA1A1B?
A: The HIMA1A1B 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: Does the HIMA1A1B provide loop power for 4-20mA transmitters?
A: No. The HIMA1A1B 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: The HIMA1A1B 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 HIMA1A1B 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: Does the HIMA1A1B have conformal coating?
A: Not by default. The 1A1B suffix indicates screw-clamp terminals and mixed fusing, not coating. If you need conformal coating for harsh environments, look for a suffix with a “G” (e.g., DS3800HIMA1G1B). The standard HIMA1A1B is suitable for indoor environments. If your plant has high humidity or corrosive conditions, consider a coated variant.

Q: How do I test the HIMA1A1B’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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