Description
Product Introduction
The DS3800NLCA is a local communications adapter board for Mark IV systems—the “L” in the suffix indicates local, the “C” indicates communications, and the “A” is a manufacturing revision. This board provides local communication connectivity and signal distribution within the Mark IV rack and to adjacent equipment. It was used in installations where local communication signals needed to be distributed between boards or to external equipment.
The board plugs into the Mark IV backplane and provides a local communications interface. Compare this to the DS3800NLBA (local bus adapter) or the DS3800NECA (Ethernet communications). The NLCA is specifically for local communications applications where signal distribution within the rack is needed.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interface Type | Local communications adapter |
| Communications Interface | Mark IV local communications |
| Backplane Interface | Parallel, Mark IV-specific |
| Diagnostic LEDs | Power, Link Status, Fault |
| CPU Compatibility | DS3800DMP series (Mark IV) |
| Backplane Current Draw | +5V DC @ 0.7A, +12V DC @ 0.3A |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60°C (non-condensing) |
| Dimensions | 328 mm x 185 mm x 20 mm (full-length Mark IV) |
| Mounting | Standard Mark IV rack slot |
| Configuration | No DIP switches—hardware address fixed |
Compatible Replacement Models
| Model | Compatibility Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DS3800NLCA1 | ✅ Drop-in Replacement | NLCA with minor revision. Same functionality. |
| DS3800NLBA | ✅ Drop-in Replacement | Similar local bus adapter—check configuration. |
| DS3800NGDC | ✅ Drop-in Replacement | General-purpose communications—may be interchangeable depending on configuration. |
| DS3800NECA | ❌ Functionally Incompatible | Ethernet board—different function. |
| DS3800NFCD | ❌ Functionally Incompatible | Fiber optic board—different function. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does the NLCA board do?
The NLCA is a local communications adapter board for Mark IV systems. It provides local communication connectivity and signal distribution within the Mark IV rack and to adjacent equipment.
What’s the difference between the NLCA and the NLBA?
The NLCA is for local communications signal distribution. The NLBA is for local bus signal distribution. The NLCA handles communications signals; the NLBA handles bus signals. Check your system documentation for the specific application.
Can I hot-swap this board?
No. Mark IV backplanes are not hot-swappable. Power down the cabinet, lock out the breaker, and wait 60 seconds before removing or installing the board.
What’s the most common failure mode on the NLCA?
We’ve serviced about a dozen NLCA boards. The most common failure is the communications interface circuitry—it can degrade over time, causing communication errors. The second most common failure is the edge connector—corrosion from humidity. The board is repairable.
What’s your warranty and lead time?
We stock the NLCA in limited quantities. Lead time is 1-2 business days. We offer a 1-year warranty. We test every board with a 24-hour burn-in and a diagnostic verification. The test report is included.
Is this board compatible with the Mark VIe?
No. This board is for Mark IV systems only. The backplane architecture is different.

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