الوصف
The GE DS3800HRMB is a specialized Memory Card with both Battery/ROM used in the GE Speedtronic Mark IV series of turbine and generator control systems. It is a legacy part, no longer in production, and is primarily found on the surplus and refurbished markets for the maintenance and repair of older systems.
Function and Purpose
The primary purpose of the DS3800HRMB is to provide both permanent and temporary memory for the Mark IV system. In the context of a turbine control system, this dual-memory function is critical for:
- Firmware and Program Storage (ROM): The board contains Read-Only Memory (ROM) modules, which are used to store the core programming code and control algorithms. This information is a permanent part of the system’s “brain” and is not lost when power is removed.
- Non-Volatile Data Storage (Battery-Backed RAM): The board also contains Random-Access Memory (RAM) that is backed up by a battery. This allows the system to retain important configuration settings, calibration data, and even real-time operational parameters during a power outage or a brief shutdown. This is crucial for a fast and reliable restart.
Technical and Design Features
The DS3800HRMB is a robust, industrial-grade circuit board designed to operate in a demanding environment.
- Legacy Part: The “DS3800” prefix indicates that it belongs to the legacy Mark IV series, a pioneering control system for gas and steam turbines in the late 1980s.
- Modular Design: The card features a modular connector on one end and retention levers on the other, ensuring secure connectivity and easy replacement.
- A/D Conversion: Some sources indicate that this board also features an Analog-to-Digital (A/D) converter, which would allow it to transform analog signals from sensors into the digital format needed by the processors.
- Connectors and Components: The board has a 40-pin connection, a 20-pin connector, and seven jumpers. It also includes multiple ROM modules and a reset toggle button.
Applications and Importance
The DS3800HRMB is a fundamental component of the GE Mark IV system’s architecture. Its importance lies in its ability to provide a reliable and non-volatile memory solution. Without the battery-backed RAM, the system would lose critical data during a power interruption, requiring a lengthy and complex recalibration process. Without the ROM, the system would have no operating instructions. This card is vital for ensuring the system’s operational continuity and reliability.