The GE IC800SSI228RD2‑CE is a specialized automation module from the GE/GE Fanuc IC800 family, designed to interface SSI (Synchronous Serial Interface) encoders with GE PLC and control systems. This CE‑marked version ensures compliance with safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements for industrial markets. It plays a crucial role in motion control, positioning feedback, and precision automation applications where accurate real‑time data from rotary or linear encoders is needed. 

What Is the GE IC800SSI228RD2‑CE?

The IC800SSI228RD2‑CE is part of GE’s modular I/O and motion control portfolio. Fundamentally, it’s an SSI encoder interface module — sometimes referred to as an SSI I/O or motion feedback module — that enables programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and automation systems to read absolute position or motion data from SSI‑compatible sensors. 

In GE/GE Fanuc automation architectures (such as VersaMax or older IC800/PLC systems), this module often lives in a rack alongside CPUs, power supplies, and other I/O cards to provide precise position feedback for motion axes. 

Key Features & Capabilities

Dual SSI Encoder Inputs

The module typically supports two independent SSI encoder interfaces, allowing simultaneous connection to two absolute encoders (rotary or linear), each with high‑resolution signal decoding — often up to 32‑bit resolution. This enables highly accurate position tracking for motion control.

High-Speed Signal Sampling

With fast clock rates — sometimes up to 1 MHz SSI clock — the IC800SSI228RD2‑CE can capture rapid position changes without lag, which is important for high‑speed machines or precision motion loops. 

Controller & PLC Integration

The module integrates with GE PLC platforms (such as IC800, VersaMax, and related families) so that encoder data can be processed directly within programmable logic workflows or motion routines. This allows direct use in CNC, robotics, conveyors, and other motion tasks. 

Industrial Ruggedness & Compliance

The “CE” suffix indicates CE conformity — meaning the product meets European directives for electromagnetic compatibility and safety — making it suitable for industrial applications in global markets. 

How It’s Used in Automation Systems

Because it decodes SSI signals — a common interface for absolute encoders — the IC800SSI228RD2‑CE serves as a bridge between precision sensors and automation logic, enabling:

• Motion control loops in CNC machines

• Position feedback for packaging, printing, or cutting machines

• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) with real‑time wheel or axis tracking

• Turbine or wind system pitch control feedback

• Robotics axis calibration and monitoring

In all these scenarios, obtaining clean, high‑resolution feedback from encoders is critical for feedback loops, accurate positioning, and high throughput.

Technical Overview 

• Product family: GE IC800 / VersaMax I/O family

• Interface type: SSI (Synchronous Serial Interface) encoder inputs

• Channels: Dual SSI channels (independent)

• Resolution: 24‑ to 32‑bit (vendor‑specified)

• Clock Rate: Up to ~1 MHz SSI clock

• Isolation: Galvanic (for noise‑resistant field wiring)

• Supply: Typical industrial 24 VDC

• Operating range: Industrial temperature range

• Certifications: CE, RoHS, industrial‑grade compliance

Why It Matters in Modern Industrial Automation

In precision automation and motion systems, accurate feedback is everything. Traditional digital I/O can tell you on/off status but not how far a shaft has turned or exact position of an axis.

The SSI protocol provides absolute position measurement — not just increments — which is essential in systems where positional drift cannot be tolerated, such as:

• Robotics and pick‑and‑place systems

• Precision machine tools and CNC axes

• Encoder‑based motion loops

• Feedback loops for process accuracy and repeatability

The GE IC800SSI228RD2‑CE decodes that SSI data and delivers it directly to the PLC or motion controller logic, enabling intelligent automation with high fidelity. 

Conclusion

The GE IC800SSI228RD2‑CE is a robust industrial encoder interface module designed for accurate SSI feedback integration in GE automation platforms. With support for dual channels, high‑resolution encoder data, and compliance for industrial use, it’s ideal for motion‑centric applications requiring precise position information. Whether in machine tools, conveyors, robotics, or turbine systems, this module bridges the gap between sensor signals and automated control logic — ensuring accuracy and reliability in performance.