GE IC695ALG106-DA 6-Channel Isolated Analog Voltage/Current Input Module

Description

In process control and industrial automation environments, engineers often struggle with noisy electrical conditions or varying ground potentials that can corrupt analog signals from field devices like transmitters, sensors, or valves. Non-isolated or group-isolated modules force channels to share common references, leading to crosstalk, ground loops, or inaccurate readings in critical measurements—especially when signals originate from separate power sources or span long distances.

The GE IC695ALG106-DA solves this by providing six fully isolated analog input channels in a single RX3i slot, allowing each channel to float independently up to 250 VAC or 350 VDC isolation levels. This ensures high reliability for I/O signals in demanding setups, such as mixing 4-20 mA loops from powered transmitters with voltage outputs from passive sensors. Configurable per-channel for standard ranges like ±10V, 0-10V, ±5V, 0-5V, 1-5V, ±20 mA, 0-20 mA, or 4-20 mA, it delivers precise data to the controller without external signal conditioners.

Situations where the GE IC695ALG106-DA proves essential include upgrading legacy systems to PACSystems RX3i for better noise immunity, integrating disparate field instruments in hazardous areas, or achieving modular integration in distributed control panels. Its channel-to-channel isolation makes it a go-to choice for process control applications requiring signal reliability amid electrical interference, while per-channel filtering options help tailor noise rejection without sacrificing update speed in industrial automation environments.

The GE IC695ALG106-DA integrates directly into the PACSystems RX3i universal backplane, occupying one slot and communicating over the high-speed PCI bus for fast data refresh to the CPU. Each of the six channels operates independently, with onboard 16-bit ADC conversion and selectable digital filters (8 Hz to 1 kHz) applied during configuration in Proficy Machine Edition.

The module draws power from the backplane but includes an isolated external supply connection for field-side powering if needed. Diagnostics are comprehensive: built-in alarms for over/under range, open wire detection on current loops, and module health reporting via %I status bits. Front-panel LEDs indicate module OK, configuration status, and individual channel faults, simplifying troubleshooting in the I/O architecture.

Positioned as a high-density isolated analog input in the RX3i stack, the GE IC695ALG106-DA sits alongside non-isolated counterparts for mixed applications or pairs with thermocouple/RTD modules for temperature-heavy processes. It supports hot insertion, allowing replacement without powering down the rack, and works with any RX3i CPU running firmware 5.0 or later—making it straightforward to add precise, isolated analog capability to existing control platforms.

Selecting the GE IC695ALG106-DA delivers exceptional signal reliability through true channel-to-channel isolation, preventing common-mode noise from affecting measurement accuracy even in electrically harsh settings. Engineered for sustained performance, it maintains better than 0.1% accuracy at ambient temperatures and provides consistent conversion rates regardless of filter selection, ensuring long-term performance in loops where precision directly impacts product quality or safety.

Maintenance efficiency improves noticeably—open-wire detection and per-channel fault reporting allow quick isolation of field issues without pulling wires, while hot-swap capability reduces engineering overhead during expansions or repairs. Integration is streamlined within the RX3i ecosystem; configuration leverages familiar Proficy tools, and the module’s compact footprint preserves rack space for future growth.

Overall, the value lies in reduced downtime from signal-related faults and lower total ownership costs—no need for external isolators or custom shielding in many cases. The GE IC695ALG106-DA ensures robust operation year after year, giving engineers confidence when deploying in systems that demand unwavering analog data integrity.

The GE IC695ALG106-DA is widely deployed in chemical processing plants for monitoring pressure, flow, and level transmitters across isolated vessels, where channel isolation prevents ground loops in explosive atmospheres while supporting continuous uptime demands.

In oil and gas facilities, it’s used in process control environments for custody transfer metering or pipeline monitoring, handling mixed current and voltage signals under harsh conditions with vibration and temperature swings.

Power plants often incorporate it for turbine auxiliary systems or boiler controls, providing critical system uptime by delivering noise-free readings from remote sensors in electrically noisy switchyards. Across water treatment, pharmaceutical batching, and metals processing, the GE IC695ALG106-DA excels where high reliability and fast, accurate data cycles are required for regulatory compliance or efficiency.

IC695ALG106-EA – Latest revision with updated firmware compatibility and minor enhancements

IC695ALG106-CA – Conformal-coated version for harsh/humid environments

IC695ALG106-LT – Low-temperature variant rated down to -40°C

IC695ALG112-DA – 12-channel isolated analog input for higher density needs

IC695ALG600 – 8-channel universal analog/thermocouple/RTD input module

IC695ALG608 – 8-channel non-isolated differential analog input with HART

IC695ALG616 – 16-channel non-isolated analog input for cost-sensitive applications

IC694ALG223 – 16-channel current input module (non-isolated, Series 90-30 compatible)

Before installing the GE IC695ALG106-DA, confirm your RX3i backplane is universal type and the CPU firmware is at least version 5.0—older releases may limit diagnostic features. Verify power budget: account for the module’s backplane draw plus any external isolated supply if powering field loops. Ensure adequate panel ventilation, as the module dissipates modest heat under full load.

Pair it with high-density terminal blocks (box or spring style) and prepare shielding for field wiring—ground shields at the field end for current loops or module end for voltage to minimize noise pickup. During configuration, test channel ranges in Proficy Machine Edition with simulated inputs to validate scaling and alarms before going live.

For ongoing maintenance, periodically check LED indicators for fault patterns and review diagnostic bits in the logic for trending issues like intermittent open wires. Inspect terminal connections annually for tightness, especially in vibrating environments, and clean dust buildup around the module vents. Keep a configured spare on hand with your standard range settings—this enables swaps in minutes, preserving operational continuity in critical setups.