Overview
Configured for VME rack communication and I/O network management in the Mark VI control system, the General Electric IS215VCMIH2B (VCMI VME Bus Master Controller) provides direct communication between the controller, I/O boards, terminal boards, and the IONet system control network. The IS215VCMIH2B also operates as the VME bus master, manages board identification within the rack, and receives analog and digital power status feedback through the J301 backplane connector.
Hardware Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | IS215VCMIH2B |
| Brand | General Electric |
| Series | Mark VI |
| Product Type | VME Bus Master Controller / VME Communication Interface Card |
| Origin | United States |
| Weight | 0.36 kg |
| Dimensions | 2.1 cm x 18.8 cm x 26.2 cm |
| Board Type | 6U high VME board |
| Board Width | 0.787 inch |
| Processor | Texas Instruments TMS320C32 32-bit digital signal processor |
| Dual-Port Memory | 32 KB in 32-bit transmission configuration |
| SRAM | 256 K x 32 |
| Flash Memory | 512 K x 8 / 4096 K x 8, version dependent |
| VME Bus Function | Bus master for control and I/O racks |
| Serial Communication | 1 RS-232C serial port |
| Serial Connector | D-style plug connector |
| Serial Data Rate | 9600 baud only |
| Network Interfaces | 3 IONet connectors |
| Front Panel Ports | 4 ports: 3 IONet and 1 serial |
| IONet Indicators | TX, RX, CD LEDs |
| Additional LEDs | 1, 2, 4, 8 |
| Status Indicators | Run, Fail, Status |
| Reset Function | Push-button reset switch |
| Backplane Connection | J301 connector |
| Power Monitoring | +5 V, 12 V, 15 V, and 28 V internal power buses |
| Frame Rate | TMR 20 ms, 80 ms application dependent, 10 ms at 100 Hz |
| Tariff Code | 8537101190 |
Backplane Communication and Firmware Flash Compatibility
The IS215VCMIH2B uses the VME backplane as its primary rack communication path. It controls VME bus access and manages identification data for boards and associated terminal boards installed within the control and I/O racks.
In addition, the controller interfaces with the IONet network through three dedicated front-panel connectors. Each IONet interface includes TX, RX, and CD indicators, allowing technicians to observe transmit activity, receive activity, and communication status directly from the faceplate.
The TMS320C32 processor executes communication and control functions while the onboard dual-port memory and SRAM support data exchange between the VME system and connected interfaces. Flash memory capacity varies according to the applicable VCMI hardware version. Therefore, firmware compatibility should be verified against the installed Mark VI hardware configuration before replacement or commissioning.
The J301 backplane connector also transfers analog and digital power feedback to the VCMI board. Internal diagnostic functions monitor the +5 V, 12 V, 15 V, and 28 V power buses and generate alarm indications when monitored conditions fall outside the expected operating state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the primary function of the IS215VCMIH2B in a Mark VI rack?
A: The IS215VCMIH2B operates as the VME bus master and communication interface between the controller, I/O boards, terminal boards, and the IONet system control network.
Q: How many network and serial connections are available on the front panel?
A: The front faceplate provides three IONet connectors and one RS-232C serial connection. The serial interface operates at 9600 baud only according to the provided specifications.
Q: Which power supply buses does the IS215VCMIH2B monitor?
A: Internal diagnostics monitor the +5 V, 12 V, 15 V, and 28 V power supply buses and provide alarm monitoring for these internal power conditions.
Field Installation Guidelines
Verify that the VME rack is de-energized before installing or removing the IS215VCMIH2B board. Align the board with the designated rack guides and insert it evenly to prevent connector damage.
Secure the faceplate after confirming full engagement with the VME backplane and J301 connection path. Do not force the board into the rack if mechanical resistance occurs.
Connect IONet cables to the correct front-panel ports and maintain separation between communication wiring and high-energy power conductors. Use the specified industrial cable shielding and grounding practices required by the Mark VI installation environment.
Before startup, inspect the TX, RX, CD, Run, Fail, and Status indicators. Then verify RS-232C communication settings when the serial interface is used. Confirm board and firmware compatibility with the installed Mark VI system configuration before placing the controller rack into service.
