GE IC660ELB912

Description

Product Description
The GE IC660ELB912 is a specialized and robust Terminator Base Unit for GE’s Genius® Distributed I/O System. This module is not an I/O block itself, but the critical mechanical and electrical foundation that allows other functional Genius modules to be mounted and interconnected on a DIN rail. The primary function of the GE IC660ELB912 is to serve as a mounting base that provides both the bus connection to the Genius serial communication network and the terminal blocks for field wiring connections to the I/O points. It acts as the interface between the Genius bus, the I/O electronics (via plug-in modules), and the field devices (sensors, actuators). For system designers implementing a Genius distributed I/O network—renowned for its deterministic performance and diagnostic depth—the correct selection of terminator base units like the IC660ELB912 is essential for building a reliable node. The durability and design of this base unit directly affect the integrity of both the network communication and the field signal connections.

Product Parameters

• Module Type: Terminator Base Unit (TBU) for Genius I/O.
• Product Family: GE Genius Distributed I/O System (Series 90-30/90-70, RX3i).
• Compatibility: Designed to accept specific plug-in Genius I/O modules (e.g., digital input, digital output, analog I/O blocks). The ELB912 suffix indicates a specific configuration.
• Number of Points: The base itself defines the number of field wiring terminals. A common configuration for the IC660ELB912 is a 12-point base (as suggested by ‘912’), typically for discrete I/O modules.
• Terminal Type: Screw clamp terminals for secure field wiring connection.
• Bus Connection: Provides a standard Genius bus connector for daisy-chaining to the next node on the network via a shielded, twisted-pair cable.
• Diagnostics: Includes LEDs for power status and Genius bus communication status.
• Mounting: Standard 35mm DIN rail mounting.

Advantages and Features

• Modular and Flexible Design: The Genius system’s core strength. The IC660ELB912 base allows for easy configuration and future modification by simply plugging in different I/O function modules without rewiring the field connections to the base.
• Simplified Maintenance: If an I/O function module fails, it can be unplugged and replaced from the front without disturbing the field wiring attached to the base unit, minimizing downtime.
• Robust Communication: As part of the Genius system, it supports a high-speed, deterministic, and peer-to-peer serial network with extensive diagnostic capabilities for each node on the bus.
• Space Efficiency: By separating the communication/power interface (the base) from the I/O electronics (the plug-in), the system allows for a compact and organized panel layout.
• High Noise Immunity: The Genius bus and the design of the terminator base are engineered for reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments.

Application Cases in Application Fields

• Automotive Manufacturing (Body Shop): Used as part of a Genius network to distribute I/O points directly on welding robot cells, with the IC660ELB912 base providing the rugged connection point for limit switches and solenoid valves.
• Material Handling (Conveyor Control): Distributed along a conveyor line to localize control, with bases like the IC660ELB912 mounting discrete input blocks to read photo-eye sensors and output blocks to control motor starters.
• Food and Beverage Processing: In washdown areas, the system’s modularity allows easy replacement of I/O modules, with the sealed base unit helping protect connections.
• Machine Tool Control: Providing distributed I/O for a large CNC machine, grouping inputs from tool changers and coolant sensors onto locally mounted Genius blocks.

Comparisons with Competing Products
The GE IC660ELB912 and the Genius system compete with other distributed I/O architectures:

• Siemens ET 200 Distributed I/O (PROFIBUS/PROFINET): The Genius system with bases like the IC660ELB912 uses a proprietary, highly deterministic serial network, whereas Siemens uses open fieldbus standards. Genius is often noted for its simpler configuration and powerful peer-to-peer messaging.
• Allen-Bradley POINT I/O/CompactBlock (DeviceNet/EtherNet/IP): Similar modular concept. The Genius system’s integrated diagnostics per point and the physical separation of the base and module are distinguishing features.
• Generic Remote I/O Blocks: Simpler blocks often lack the extensive diagnostics, deterministic performance, and modularity of the Genius system anchored by components like the IC660ELB912.

The key advantage of the IC660ELB912 and the Genius system is its proven track record of reliability, excellent diagnostics, and ease of maintenance in harsh, high-volume manufacturing environments.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Match Base to Module: The IC660ELB912 base must be paired with a compatible Genius I/O function module (e.g., IC660MDL240 for 24VDC input). Verify compatibility in the Genius selection guide.
2. Correct Bus Termination: The Genius network is a serial daisy-chain. The first and last physical nodes on the bus must be terminated properly. Special terminating resistor plugs are required, which are separate from the base unit.
3. Power Supply Requirements: The Genius base and its modules require a 24VDC power source. This power is separate from the Genius communication bus. Ensure adequate power supply capacity for all modules on the node.
4. Wiring and Grounding: Use proper wire gauges and follow guidelines for the Genius communication cable (shielded, twisted-pair). Ensure the shield is grounded at one end only (typically at the master controller) to prevent ground loops.
5. Obsolescence Note: The Genius platform is mature. While still supported and available, for new greenfield projects, consider discussing the migration path to GE’s (Emerson’s) more recent PACSystems RX3i with Profinet or Ethernet/IP distributed I/O.

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