GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B High-Density VMEbus I/O Module

Description

VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B

The GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B acts as the “nerve center” for field devices in VMEbus automation stacks, sitting between sensors/actuators and the VME CPU module. It processes signals from 32 analog inputs (supporting 4-20mA, 0-10V, and thermocouple types J/K/T/E) and controls 16 digital outputs (sinking/sourcing up to 0.5A per channel), converting raw field data into digital signals that the VME CPU can act on—all with a latency of under 500µs. This low latency is critical for real-time applications like motion control in semiconductor manufacturing or emergency shutdown systems in refineries.

VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B

What makes it integral to VME systems is its native VME64x interface, which communicates directly with the VME backplane at speeds up to 320MB/s—eliminating bottlenecks that plague non-VME-compliant I/O modules. The GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B also includes built-in signal conditioning (such as noise filtering and surge protection) to ensure accurate data capture even in electrically noisy environments (e.g., factory floors with heavy machinery). It supports hot-swapping in compatible VME card cages, allowing engineers to replace the module without shutting down the entire system—a game-changer for 24/7 operations. Additionally, its dual-core microprocessor handles local signal preprocessing (like range checking and linearization), reducing the computational load on the VME CPU and improving overall system responsiveness.

VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B

Main features and advantages:

Choosing the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B delivers long-term operational value that extends beyond I/O capacity. For engineers managing legacy VME systems, its backward compatibility eliminates the risk of “ripple effect” failures—you can add or replace I/O modules without reconfiguring existing control logic or retraining staff. This reduces engineering overhead by 25–35% compared to non-VME I/O solutions, as there’s no need to install gateways or rewrite software. The module’s high density also cuts wiring costs: with 48 I/O points in one module, you’ll use fewer cables and terminal blocks, simplifying maintenance and reducing the chance of wiring errors—a common cause of unplanned downtime.

Engineered for harsh industrial environments, the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B features shock and vibration resistance (compliant with MIL-STD-810H) and an extended temperature range, ensuring reliable performance in desert solar farms, offshore oil rigs, or arctic pipeline stations. Its 16-bit analog resolution guarantees precise measurements—critical for pharmaceutical manufacturing (where regulatory compliance demands exact temperature control) or power generation (where voltage fluctuations must be detected instantly). Built-in diagnostics (e.g., open-circuit detection for thermocouples, overcurrent protection for digital outputs) alert engineers to issues before they escalate, minimizing downtime and repair costs.

Application fields:

The GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B excels in industries where high I/O density, reliability, and VME compatibility are non-negotiable. In power generation—specifically fossil fuel or hydroelectric plants—it monitors hundreds of sensor inputs (e.g., turbine bearing temperature, generator voltage) and controls valve actuators, using its low latency to ensure the VME CPU responds instantly to anomalies. Its compliance with IEC 61850 makes it ideal for smart grid applications, where it integrates with substation automation systems to enable remote monitoring.

In oil and gas refineries, the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B manages process control loops for distillation columns: its analog inputs track fluid temperature and pressure, while digital outputs trigger valve adjustments to maintain product quality. Its surge protection (up to 2kV) safeguards against electrical disturbances common in refinery environments, preventing module damage.

In aerospace and defense, the module is used in test facilities to capture data from hundreds of sensors on aircraft engines or missile systems, leveraging its high density to reduce the size of test rig control systems. In each use case, the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B’s ability to combine VME compatibility with modern I/O performance makes it irreplaceable for extending the life of legacy systems.

Related products:

• GE VMIVME-7698-346 350-017698-346 B– Higher-resolution version (24-bit analog inputs) for ultra-precise applications like laboratory automation or aerospace testing.
• GE VMIVME-7698-344 350-017698-344 B– Lower-density model (16 analog inputs, 8 digital outputs) for smaller VME systems (e.g., water treatment plants with limited I/O needs).
• GE VMIVME-7699-345 350-017699-345 B– Analog input-only variant (48 channels) for applications requiring maximum sensor connectivity (e.g., power substation monitoring).
• GE VMIVME-7697-345 350-017697-345 B– Digital output-only module (32 channels) to pair with the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B for expanded control capabilities.
• GE VMIVME7459– VMEbus CPU module fully compatible with the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B, providing processing power for I/O data.
• GE VMIVME-7698-345-RA 350-017698-345-RA B– Redundant I/O version (dual modules for fault tolerance) for safety-critical applications (e.g., nuclear power plant SIS).
• GE VMIVME6500– VMEbus power supply module designed to deliver stable 5V/±12V power to the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B and other VME components.
• GE VMIVME5010– VMEbus backplane extender, allowing the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B to connect to VME CPUs in remote card cages (up to 100m).

Installation and maintenance:

Before installing the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B, verify that your VMEbus backplane is compliant with VME64x standards—older VME32 backplanes may limit the module’s communication speed and channel performance. Check the backplane’s power capacity: the module draws up to 18W, so ensure the power supply can handle the load without voltage drops (use GE’s backplane power calculator for validation). Update the firmware of your VME CPU (e.g., GE VMIVME7459) to the latest version (available via GE’s Digital Support Portal) to ensure seamless I/O data transfer—outdated CPU firmware can cause communication delays or channel dropout.

For physical installation, confirm the VME card cage has adequate cooling: the module generates heat under full load, so maintain 20mm of clearance above and below to prevent thermal throttling. Use the front-panel terminal block’s color-coded pins to match field wiring (refer to the module’s wiring diagram) — mix-ups between analog inputs and digital outputs can damage sensors or actuators. Always use anti-static wrist straps when handling the module, as electrostatic discharge can corrupt its signal processing circuitry.

For ongoing maintenance, inspect the module’s front-panel LEDs monthly: a steady green “STATUS” light confirms normal operation, while a red “FAULT” light indicates issues like open thermocouple circuits or overcurrent on digital outputs. Review I/O data logs quarterly to identify signal drift (common in aging sensors) — the GE VMIVME-7698-345 350-017698-345 B’s built-in calibration tools let you adjust analog channels without removing the module. Every 12 months, clean the terminal block with compressed air to remove dust and debris, which can cause contact resistance and signal noise. If GE releases firmware updates for the module, apply them during scheduled downtime to unlock new features (e.g., enhanced protocol support) or address security vulnerabilities.

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