Product Core Brief

• Model:
• Brand: GE Fanuc / Emerson Automation
• Series: PACSystems RX3i
• Core Function: 8-channel fully galvanically isolated analog output module, converts digital %AQ register values to user-selectable voltage/current analog signals for modulating valves, VFDs, positioners and field instruments.
• Product Type: Single-width RX3i Isolated Analog Output Module
• Key Specs: 8 independent isolated channels | Software-selectable ranges per channel | 14/15-bit resolution | Supports hot swap on certified RX3i backplanes | Requires external 24VDC field supply Note: Active lifecycle RX3i analog module; new original, surplus & refurbished stock available. Channel-to-channel isolation is its primary advantage vs non-isolated analog modules. No hardware jumpers; all range configuration via Proficy Machine Edition. Terminal block IC694TBB032 / IC694TBS032 sold separately.

Key Technical Specifications

• Channel Layout: 8 galvanically isolated analog output channels (channel-to-channel & channel-to-backplane isolation)
• Software Selectable Signal Ranges (per channel independent): ±10 VDC, 0–10 VDC, 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA
• Resolution
  • ±10V, 0–20mA, 4–20mA: 15-bit
  • 0–10V: 14-bit
• Full Module Update Time: 8 ms for all 8 channels
• Load Limits Voltage mode: Minimum 2 kΩ load resistance Current mode: Maximum 850 Ω load resistance
• Isolation Rating: 2550 VDC isolation between each channel and backplane, channel-to-channel isolation
• Backplane Power Consumption 3.3 VDC: 250 mA 5 VDC: 17 mA
• External Field Supply: 19.2 ~ 30 VDC (nominal 24 VDC), max 660 mA
• Diagnostics: Open-circuit detection for current loops, over/under range alarm reporting per channel
• Fail-Safe Function: Configurable – Hold last value or preset safe output upon backplane communication loss
• Status LEDs: MODULE OK, USER SUPPLY OK
• Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ +60°C horizontal cabinet mounting
• Storage Temperature: -40°C ~ +85°C
• Form Factor: Single-width RX3i module
• Compatible Baseplates: IC695CHS007, IC695CHS012, IC695CHS016 universal RX3i racks
• Required Terminal Block: IC694TBB032 (captive screw) or IC694TBS032 (spring clamp)
• Supported Software: Proficy Machine Edition
• Agency Certifications: UL508, Class I Div.2, CE, ATEX Zone 2

Product Introduction

is a high-performance isolated analog output module for PACSystems RX3i, widely used in process control where ground loops and electrical noise must be suppressed. Each channel is fully isolated from every other channel and the PLC backplane, eliminating cross-talk and ground loop interference common in multi-loop analog systems. Every channel can independently run voltage or current mode, enabling mixed signal types on one single module without wiring modifications.

Built-in open-loop diagnostics detect broken 4–20mA field wiring and send fault alarms to the CPU. Users configure fail-safe output behavior for safety-critical applications if communication between module and CPU fails.

Important Distinction

• : Channel-to-channel isolated 8-channel AO (premium, noise-sensitive process applications)
• Non-isolated analog output modules: Lower cost, no channel isolation, not suitable for multi-ground field wiring This module does not support HART protocol.

QA & Testing SOP (Transparency Building)

1. Incoming Inspection: Verify part marking. Inspect backplane gold pins for bending/corrosion; check module housing integrity.
2. Live Testing: Mount onto validated RX3i baseplate, apply backplane power and external 24VDC field supply. Perform full-scale ramp testing on all channels with precision load resistors, verify open-circuit diagnostic function, run continuous 24-hour stability test.
3. Electrical Testing: Monitor backplane 3.3V/5V rail stability. Insulation resistance ≥10MΩ between field terminals and chassis protective ground.
4. Firmware Record: Document hardware revision; photograph terminal wiring layout before disassembly.
5. Final QC & Packaging: Place module inside anti-static shielding. Attach dated QC test tag listing channel calibration results prior to shipment.

Installation Pitfalls & Guide

❗ Hot Swap Precondition: Supports hot swap only on hot-swap rated RX3i universal backplanes. On non-hot-swap racks, shut down rack power before module insertion/removal. ❗ External 24VDC Mandate: Backplane logic power cannot drive field loads. Loss of external user supply triggers configured fail-safe output state. ❗ Load Resistance Boundary: Current loops with load resistance exceeding 850Ω result in clipped output and false open-circuit faults. ❗ Terminal Block Separate Purchase: Module does not ship with terminal block; order IC694TBB032 or IC694TBS032 separately. ❗ Analog Wiring Layout: Separate analog cables from high-power AC wiring to minimize induced noise. ❗ ESD Risk: Static discharge damages DAC circuits; typical failure symptom is slow channel offset drift.

Replacement Guide

1. Pre-install: Lockout-tagout rack power and external field supply; back up I/O configuration. Photograph analog wiring and terminal block arrangement.
2. Removal: Disconnect terminal block wiring, unlatch module and slide straight out without twisting backplane pins.
3. Install: Seat new into original slot, attach terminal block and replicate all field wiring connections.
4. Power-on Test: Restore power, download saved configuration, perform full-scale channel verification and confirm open-loop diagnostic function works correctly.

FAQ

Q: Does support hot swapping? A: Yes, on hot-swap certified RX3i universal backplanes. Non-hot-swap racks require full rack power shutdown.

Q: What is the key advantage of compared to non-isolated analog output modules? A: Complete channel-to-channel and channel-to-backplane galvanic isolation, eliminates ground loops and cross-channel interference in noisy process environments.

Q: Can channels mix voltage and current modes on the same module? A: Yes. Each channel can be independently configured for voltage or current ranges via software.

Q: Does support HART instruments? A: No. It is standard analog output without HART modulation capability.

Q: Can this module be used in Series 90-30 racks? A: No. It is native RX3i module; cannot plug into Series 90-30 backplane.

Q: Will saved I/O configuration load automatically onto a replacement module? A: I/O configuration resides in the CPU project. After replacement, verify channel range settings and full-scale output accuracy.

Q: Can I use this module on serial expansion racks via IC695LRE001? A: Yes, compatible with RX3i serial expansion rack architecture.