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Phone: +86 16626708626Description
GE IC200ALG320G powers control loops in distributed VersaMax systems where remote I/O drops need to send precise current signals to drives, valves, and instruments over long field wiring runs. It shows up frequently in water treatment plants adjusting chemical dosing pumps, food processing lines modulating conveyor speeds, and HVAC skids positioning dampers, where a PLC must maintain stable 4-20 mA setpoints despite noise and voltage drops. Operators rely on the GE IC200ALG320G to keep processes steady during load changes or when cabling stretches hundreds of feet to actuators, because its current-sourcing design delivers consistent control regardless of line resistance. In these setups, tying analog outputs directly to the NIU or carrier lets the system scale I/O exactly where needed, without running all signals back to a central rack.
This module is also applicable in control systems for batching, packaging, and utilities, where multiple loops must respond to PLC logic or recipes without introducing delays from centralized wiring. The GE IC200ALG320G fits naturally into modular VersaMax drops alongside digital I/O and network interfaces, supporting Profibus, Ethernet, or serial backhaul to the main controller. For integrators, it solves the challenge of putting reliable analog control near the process while keeping configuration simple through standard GE tools. Whether feeding VFDs for fan/pump speed, pneumatic positioners on control valves, or chart recorders for compliance logging, GE IC200ALG320G ensures the electrical signal arrives accurately and stays stable, which directly impacts product quality and energy use in industrial automation.
Product Introduction & Positioning
The GE IC200ALG320G is a four-channel, 4-20 mA current output module for GE VersaMax PLC and distributed I/O systems. It mounts on a VersaMax carrier or NIU baseplate, where a host PLC or network interface sends digital setpoint values over the backplane; the module converts those to isolated, current-sourcing analog signals for field devices. Unlike voltage outputs that suffer from line losses, this current-loop design maintains setpoint accuracy across typical plant cabling, making it ideal for remote mounting. The GE IC200ALG320G requires an external 18-30 VDC supply for the output loops, which it regulates channel-by-channel with short-circuit and overrange protection.
Architecturally, GE IC200ALG320G lives in the field I/O layer, bridging PLC logic to actuators and transmitters. It receives four words of output data per scan from the NIU or CPU, updating all channels in under 0.3 ms for responsive control. Engineers choose it when building modular systems that distribute analog control near pumps, valves, or motors, reducing cable costs and improving signal integrity. As part of VersaMax, the GE IC200ALG320G supports hot-swap insertion and diagnostics reported back to the host controller, positioning it as a flexible, low-risk choice for expanding or retrofitting analog capability without rack additions.
Key Technical Features & Functional Benefits
The GE IC200ALG320G delivers four single-ended, current-sourcing outputs scaled 4 to 20 mA (extendable to 20.38 mA overrange), with 12-bit resolution where 8 counts equal 4 µA steps. Output accuracy holds at ±0.3% typical (+25°C) or ±1% maximum (0-60°C), ensuring reliable valve positioning or drive speed even as temperature or load varies. Update rates hit 0.3 ms maximum per module, so changes from PID loops or recipes propagate fast enough for most process and discrete applications. Channel isolation and 70 dB crosstalk rejection prevent one loop from disturbing neighbors, critical when mixing flow, pressure, and speed controls in tight panels.
Hardware-wise, GE IC200ALG320G draws 50 mA from the 5 V backplane and up to 160 mA (18-30 V range) or 240 mA (9.6-15 V) from the external supply, including loop loads up to 1250 Ω resistive. It handles capacitive loads to 0.1 µF and inductive to 0.5 H without ringing or instability, matching most industrial actuators. Front-panel LEDs (PWR, FLD, OK, channel status) give instant visibility into power, field supply, module health, and per-channel faults, speeding troubleshooting without software. Configurable defaults (hold last state or 4 mA) and open-wire/loss-of-power diagnostics protect processes during NIU faults or cable breaks.
In VersaMax networks, GE IC200ALG320G integrates seamlessly via Profibus-DP, Ethernet, or serial, with module ID FFFF9440 for plug-and-play recognition. Thermal derating applies above 60°C for current outputs, but no derating hits voltage siblings, suiting it for ventilated cabinets. Load equations like RL(MAX) = (VEXT – 4V) / 20.38 mA guide safe sizing, and hazardous-location certification (Class I Div 2) extends use into classified areas. Overall, GE IC200ALG320G offers robust, scalable analog output for distributed control where precision and diagnostics matter most.
Detailed Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | GE IC200ALG320G |
| Brand | GE Fanuc / Emerson |
| Type | 4-channel 4-20 mA current-sourcing analog output |
| Output Range | 4 to 20 mA (20.38 mA overrange) |
| Resolution | 12-bit, 8 counts = 4 µA |
| Accuracy (max, 0-60°C) | ±1% full scale |
| External Power Supply | 18-30 VDC (160 mA max incl. load); 9.6-15 VDC option |
| Max Load | 1250 Ω resistive; 0.1 µF cap; 0.5 H inductive |
| Update Rate | 0.3 ms max per module |
| Backplane Current | 5 V: 50 mA max |
| Isolation | Channel-to-channel crosstalk rejection 70 dB min |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60 °C (derating above for current outputs) |
| Diagnostics | Loss of user power, open wire, configurable defaults |
| Certifications | Class I Div 2 Groups A,B,C,D hazardous locations |
| Module ID Code | FFFF9440 |
- IC200ALG320G
Related Modules or Compatible Units
IC200ALG321 – Voltage output companion (0-10 V), used when field devices prefer voltage over current in systems with GE IC200ALG320G.
IC200ALG322 – ±10 V bipolar voltage module, pairs with GE IC200ALG320G for mixed signal requirements in VersaMax drops.
IC200NIU – Network Interface Unit that hosts GE IC200ALG320G on remote carriers, enabling Profibus/Ethernet distribution
IC200ACC201 – Termination block for secure field wiring to GE IC200ALG320G outputs in high-vibration environments.
IC200ALG240 – 4-channel analog input module, complements GE IC200ALG320G for closed-loop control in the same drop
IC200CHS – VersaMax carrier/baseplate where GE IC200ALG320G mounts alongside digital I/O and power feeds.
IC695ALG series – PACSystems RX3i analog outputs for upgrading centralized systems that interface with GE IC200ALG320G remotes.
Installation Notes & Maintenance Best Practices
Site preparation for GE IC200ALG320G starts with selecting a VersaMax carrier/NIU combo rated for the external 18-30 VDC supply, fused appropriately upstream (check 160 mA/channel max). Route output wiring as twisted pairs in shielded cable, grounding shields at the module end to block noise pickup over long runs to valves or transmitters. Separate analog pairs from power/AC lines by at least 6 inches, and verify polarity on loop-powered devices since outputs source current only. Pre-configure output defaults (last state vs. 4 mA) and scaling in Proficy Machine Edition to match field units (e.g., % = flow setpoint). Power up incrementally: external supply first (FLD OK), then NIU (PWR/OK), confirming no channel faults before full commissioning.
Ongoing care for GE IC200ALG320G focuses on visual checks every six months: scan LEDs for steady OK/FLD, inspect terminals for corrosion or looseness (torque to spec), and clean dust from vents to preserve passive cooling (derating kicks in above 60°C). Calibrate annually using a precision 4-20 mA source, comparing module output to NIU commands at 25%, 50%, 100% span—log deviations for trend analysis. Monitor diagnostics via host PLC for open-wire or power-loss flags, which often trace to field cable damage rather than module failure. Keep firmware/NIU configs backed up; if swapping GE IC200ALG320G, match the exact catalog (G suffix may denote firmware/revision) and retest loops before release. Spares should store dry at <40°C to avoid drift.
