GE IC694ALG223
GE IC694ALG223
GE IC694ALG223
GE IC694ALG223

GE IC694ALG223-DB | Rev DB 16-Ch Current Input for RX3i – Field Notes

  • Model: IC694ALG223-DB (Revision DB)
  • Alt. P/N: IC694ALG223DB, IC694ALG223-DB, Series DB, Rev DB
  • Product Series: PACSystems RX3i (formerly GE Fanuc, now Emerson Automation)
  • Hardware Type: High-density analog current input module—firmware revision DB
  • Key Feature: Firmware 1.60 (May 2012)—resolves rare field-identified issues
  • Primary Field Use: Same as base IC694ALG223—16-channel 4-20mA transmitter interface with open-wire detection
Get a Quote
In Stock
Manufacturer:
Part number: GE IC694ALG223-DB
Our extensive catalogue, including : GE IC694ALG223-DB , is available now for dispatch to the worldwide. Brand:
The listed price is not final; the actual selling price is negotiable based on current market conditions.

Description

Hard-Numbers: Technical Specifications

  • Input Channels: 16 single-ended (no differential option)
  • Current Ranges: 0-20mA, 4-20mA (standard), 4-20mA Enhanced (selectable per channel)
  • Resolution: 12-bit; 4µA/count (4-20mA) / 5µA/count (0-20mA and Enhanced)
  • Update Rate: 13ms (all 16 channels scanned)
  • Accuracy: ±0.25% of full scale @ 25°C (77°F)
  • Input Impedance: 250Ω (precision resistor)
  • Isolation Rating: 250VAC continuous / 1500VAC for 1 minute (field-to-backplane, optical)
  • Cross-Channel Rejection: >80dB from DC to 1kHz
  • Input Filter: 19Hz low-pass
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (32°F to 140°F)
  • Power Draw: 120mA @ +5VDC (backplane) + 65mA @ +24VDC isolated (external supply required)
  • Firmware Version: 1.60 (Release DB)
  • Release Date: May 2012
  • Hot Swap: Yes
  • Certifications: UL, CE, ATEX, Class I Div 2, marine approvals
GE IC694ALG223

GE IC694ALG223

The Real-World Problem It Solves

The -DB revision is a maintenance release, not a feature upgrade. It fixes edge-case bugs that showed up in field and factory testing—rare timing issues, noise rejection under specific conditions, or diagnostic reporting quirks. If you’re replacing a failed module and get a -DB revision, it’s a drop-in replacement. If you’re building new, spec the latest revision (EB, FC, or newer), but -DB will work fine.

What -DB fixes (per GFK-2655A release notes):

  • Rare timing glitches in channel scanning under heavy RF interference
  • Intermittent false alarms in 4-20mA Enhanced mode at low currents
  • Edge-case diagnostic bit reporting during power-up

Where you’ll typically find it:

  • Plants that ordered spares between 2012-2014
  • Systems upgraded from original -BA revision during maintenance cycles
  • Legacy installations where the original module was swapped for warranty replacement

Bottom line: Functionally identical to base IC694ALG223. Use it as a direct replacement. No wiring changes, no configuration changes, no PLC program modifications required.

 

Hardware Architecture & Under-the-Hood Logic

The ALG223-DB uses the same analog front-end and isolation architecture as the base revision. The firmware update addresses internal timing and diagnostic logic only—no hardware changes. The module still uses 250Ω shunt resistors, a multiplexed 12-bit ADC, and optical isolation.

What changed in firmware 1.60:

  1. Channel scanning timing tightened—reduces race conditions that could cause channel-to-channel crosstalk in high-noise environments.
  2. Enhanced mode alarm threshold logic refined—eliminates false low-alarm triggers when input current sits near 4mA boundary with high common-mode noise.
  3. Diagnostic bit reporting stabilized—status bits now consistently report module and power supply health during rapid power cycling.
  4. No changes to ADC, isolation, or analog circuitry—signal path is identical to earlier revisions.
GE IC694ALG223

GE IC694ALG223

Field Service Pitfalls: What Rookies Get Wrong

Assuming -DB Is a Different ProductThe -DB suffix confuses people. It’s not a different module—it’s the same hardware with updated firmware. If your BOM says IC694ALG223, a -DB will work. If your spare parts crib has a mix of -BA, -DB, and -EB modules, they’re all interchangeable in the same rack.

  • Field Rule: Match the base part number (IC694ALG223). The revision suffix doesn’t affect compatibility, wiring, or programming.

Not Checking Firmware When TroubleshootingIf you’re chasing an intermittent alarm issue in Enhanced mode, check the revision label on the module. Pre-DB modules (original, -BA) had a known issue with false low-alarms near 4mA. If your problem matches the symptoms, swap in a -DB or newer.

  • Quick Fix: Look at the white label on the module side. If it says “BA” or no suffix, you may have the old firmware. DB or later has the fix.

Mixing Revisions in the Same RackYou can mix -BA, -DB, -EB modules in the same RX3i rack without issues. They use the same configuration data and report the same data format. But if you’re standardizing spares inventory, pick one revision and stick with it.

  • Field Rule: No technical reason to match revisions. Operational discipline says keep spares consistent for easier tracking.

 

Commercial Availability & Pricing Note

Please note: The listed price is for reference only and is not binding. Final pricing and terms are subject to negotiation based on current market conditions and availability.

Related products