GE UR6CH

Description

GE UR6CH: 6-Channel RTD/Resistance Input Module for VersaMax PLC

Product Description

The GE UR6CH is a dedicated analog input module designed for the GE (now Emerson) VersaMax PLC and I/O system. This module is specifically engineered to interface with Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) and other resistance-based sensors, providing precise temperature and process measurements. The primary function of the GE UR6CH is to convert the small resistance changes from field sensors into high-resolution digital values for use in the PLC’s control logic, data logging, and operator displays. It offers a cost-effective and compact solution for applications requiring multiple temperature points. For system integrators using the versatile VersaMax platform, the GE UR6CH is a key component for building reliable temperature monitoring and control systems.

Product Parameters

• Product Type: RTD/Resistance Input Module
• Manufacturer Series: GE (Emerson) VersaMax
• Module Designation: UR6CH
• Number of Channels: 6 independent input channels.
• Sensor Compatibility:
  • RTD Types: 2-wire, 3-wire, or 4-wire Pt100, Pt1000, Ni120, Cu10, and other common RTDs.
  • Resistance Range: Also capable of measuring general resistance inputs (e.g., 0 to 4000 Ω).
• Input Excitation: Provides a precise current source (typically 0.5 mA or 1.0 mA) to excite the RTD.
• Measurement Method: Employs 3-wire or 4-wire measurement to automatically compensate for lead wire resistance, ensuring high accuracy.
• Resolution: High-resolution conversion (typically 16-bit) for accurate temperature readings.
• Update Rate: Scan time per channel or per module (e.g., 25 ms per channel).
• Accuracy: High accuracy specification (e.g., ±0.1% of range or ±0.3°C for RTDs).
• Isolation: Channel-to-channel and channel-to-bus isolation for noise immunity.
• Diagnostics: LED status indicator (OK/FAULT) and comprehensive fault detection (sensor burnout, open circuit, short circuit).
• Connection: Removable terminal block for easy wiring.
• Power: Draws power from the VersaMax rack or baseplate.

Advantages and Features

• High Accuracy & Stability: Designed for precise temperature measurement, essential for process control and monitoring.
• Lead Resistance Compensation: Built-in compensation for 3-wire and 4-wire RTD connections eliminates measurement errors caused by long wire runs.
• Flexible Sensor Support: A single GE UR6CH module can support a mix of different RTD types and resistances across its six channels, configured via software.
• Compact & Cost-Effective: Six channels in a single module saves space and cost compared to using individual temperature transmitters.
• Integrated Diagnostics: Provides clear fault indications for sensor and wiring problems, reducing troubleshooting time.
• Seamless VersaMax Integration: As a native GE UR6CH module, it is easily configured within the VersaMax programming software (Machine Edition, Proficy) and communicates transparently with the CPU.

Application Cases in Application Fields

• HVAC & Building Automation: Monitoring duct temperatures, chilled/heating water supply/return temps, and outdoor air temperature across a building management system.
• Food & Beverage Processing: Measuring product temperature in tanks, ovens, pasteurizers, and cookers.
• Plastics & Rubber Manufacturing: Monitoring barrel and mold temperatures on injection molding and extrusion machines.
• Water & Wastewater Treatment: Measuring temperature in digesters, clarifiers, and chemical storage tanks.
• Machine Tool & Packaging: Monitoring bearing temperatures, hydraulic oil temperature, and process heat zones.

Comparison with Competing Products

The GE UR6CH competes directly with other RTD input modules for modular PLC systems, such as the Siemens SM 331 for S7-300, the Allen-Bradley 1769-IRT6 for CompactLogix, and the Omron CP1W-TS002. Its primary advantage is its optimized performance and ease of use within the VersaMax ecosystem, which is known for its flexibility and value. Compared to using separate temperature transmitters (which convert RTD to 4-20mA) with a standard analog input module, the UR6CH reduces hardware, wiring, and cost, while often providing better accuracy and diagnostics. For very high-density applications, dedicated temperature controllers or larger I/O systems may be compared, but the GE UR6CH excels in mid-range channel count needs.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. System Compatibility: Confirm you are using a GE VersaMax CPU (e.g., IC200CPUxxx) and rack/baseplate. The GE UR6CH is not compatible with GE Series 90-30, 90-70, or RX3i racks without special adapters that are not typically recommended.
2. Wiring Configuration is Critical: For accuracy, always use 3-wire or 4-wire connection for RTDs whenever possible. Using 2-wire connection will introduce lead resistance error. Follow the module’s terminal diagram exactly for the chosen wiring method.
3. Software Configuration: Each channel must be individually configured in the PLC programming software for the correct sensor type (Pt100, Ni120, etc.), wiring (2/3/4-wire), temperature unit (°C/°F), and scaling. Incorrect configuration is the most common source of error.
4. Sensor Burnout Detection: Utilize the module’s burnout detection feature (typically enabled by default). This allows the PLC to detect an open sensor and take a safe action (e.g., go to a predefined safe value or alarm).
5. Noise Immunity: For long wire runs or electrically noisy environments, use shielded, twisted-pair cable for each RTD and ground the shield at the rack end only.

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