GE IS215UCVFH2BB / VMIVME-7650-83H350-007650-83HC Controller and Interface Module Set

Overview

The GE IS215UCVFH2BB, together with the VMIVME-7650-83H350-007650-83HC, forms a high-performance control and computing subsystem designed for GE Mark VI and Mark VIe turbine control systems. These modules are responsible for managing high-speed processing, system communication, and real-time control of gas, steam, and combined-cycle turbines.

The combination integrates a VME-based industrial computer (VMIVME-7650) with GE’s UCVF controller module, offering a reliable, flexible, and fault-tolerant architecture optimized for power generation and process automation.

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Applications

These GE modules are widely used in:

• Gas and steam turbine control systems (GE Mark VI / VIe platforms)

• Power plant distributed control systems (DCS)

• Industrial process automation and high-speed control

• Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems

• Real-time monitoring and equipment protection platforms

Together, they ensure precise turbine control, rapid fault detection, and continuous data communication with HMIs, sensors, and actuators.

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Structure and Components

This control set consists of two tightly integrated modules, each performing a distinct yet complementary role:

1. GE IS215UCVFH2BB – Control Processor Module

• Serves as the main processing unit in the Mark VI control rack.

• Contains a PowerPC-based microprocessor with integrated memory management and real-time operating system.

• Provides Ethernet ports, serial interfaces, and VME backplane connectivity.

• Handles control logic execution, data processing, and system coordination.

• Equipped with dual-redundant operation capability to ensure zero downtime during failover events.

2. VMIVME-7650-83H350-007650-83HC – VME Embedded Computer Board

• Functions as an industrial-grade single-board computer (SBC).

• Integrates high-speed Intel x86 processor, SDRAM memory, and Flash storage for system firmware and runtime files.

• Supports VMEbus data communication with other Mark VI control modules.

• Provides I/O expansion, diagnostics, and data synchronization across the system.

• Offers Ethernet and serial ports for external communication, as well as USB and VGA interfaces for maintenance access.

Together, these modules form a redundant and synchronized control pair, ensuring precise turbine regulation and continuous availability of operational data.

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Key Features

• Real-Time Control Processing with deterministic response times.

• VMEbus Architecture for high-speed data transfer and modular scalability.

• Dual Redundancy Support ensuring uninterrupted system operation.

• Multiple Communication Protocols: Ethernet Global Data (EGD), Modbus, TCP/IP, and proprietary GE control networks.

• Advanced Diagnostics: Built-in monitoring for voltage, temperature, and performance status.

• Industrial Reliability: Engineered to operate under extreme temperature, vibration, and EMI conditions.

• Hot-Swappable Design: Enables replacement without system shutdown.

• Long-Term Support: Fully compatible with GE’s Mark VI/VIe ecosystem.

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Technical Specifications

(Parameters presented in descriptive form for variation and readability.)

The IS215UCVFH2BB operates on a 24V DC nominal supply and communicates through VME64x backplane interfaces. It incorporates a PowerPC processor running at 400 MHz, 128–256 MB RAM, and Flash memory for configuration and control applications. Two Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps) enable network redundancy and communication with HMIs and supervisory systems.

The VMIVME-7650-83H350-007650-83HC board, meanwhile, uses an Intel Pentium-class processor (up to 850 MHz), featuring 512 MB SDRAM and on-board Flash storage for system firmware. It connects directly to the VME backplane, offering 64-bit data width for rapid information transfer.

Environmental ratings for both modules include an operating temperature range of –20°C to +70°C, with humidity tolerance up to 95% non-condensing. Each unit is protected by a metallic EMI-shielded housing and meets CE, UL, and IEC industrial standards for electromagnetic compatibility and safety.

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Installation and Configuration

1. Mounting: Install modules securely into the GE Mark VI or VIe VME rack according to slot assignments.

2. Connections:

   • Connect Ethernet and serial communication ports.

   • Ensure correct power input polarity and grounding.

   • Attach VME backplane connectors firmly.

3. Configuration: Use GE ToolboxST™ or ControlST™ software for module setup, firmware updates, and network configuration.

4. Testing: Perform self-diagnostics and communication checks before system startup.

Safety Note: Handle all modules in ESD-safe conditions and avoid mechanical stress during installation.

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Maintenance and Reliability

Routine maintenance is minimal due to the modules’ solid-state construction. Recommended practices include:

• Quarterly inspection of connectors and cooling airflow.

• Regular review of system logs and diagnostic data.

• Updating firmware as recommended by GE.

• Cleaning modules with dry compressed air to remove dust buildup.

Both modules feature mean time between failure (MTBF) exceeding 100,000 hours, ensuring outstanding operational reliability.

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Advantages

• High-speed and deterministic process control

• Modular, scalable architecture for easy upgrades

• Integrated fault diagnostics and redundancy

• Compatible with GE’s proven Mark VI / VIe control systems

• Long service life and robust industrial protection

• Simplified maintenance and field replacement

  
  

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Applications in Power and Process Industries

The IS215UCVFH2BB / VMIVME-7650 set is commonly deployed in:

• Gas turbine control panels

• Steam turbine supervisory systems

• Compressor and generator control

• Industrial process optimization

• Balance of plant (BOP) coordination

These systems rely on the modules’ precision, reliability, and communication integrity to maintain plant stability and safety.

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Conclusion

The GE IS215UCVFH2BB and VMIVME-7650-83H350-007650-83HC combination embodies GE’s advanced control and computing technology. Purpose-built for demanding environments such as power generation, this control module set provides real-time intelligence, communication efficiency, and long-term reliability.

Whether deployed in turbine control, process automation, or critical plant supervision, these modules deliver uninterrupted performance, simplified integration, and trusted dependability — a hallmark of GE’s industrial innovation.