GE A16B-3200-0220 Profibus Master Board

This board manages Profibus DP communication for GE CNC and automation systems. It acts as a network master for remote I/O and drive devices. Therefore, it enables high-speed data exchange in factory automation networks.

Technical Specifications of GE A16B-3200-0220

The GE A16B-3200-0220 measures 26.0 cm in length and 18.5 cm in width. Its board weight equals approximately 0.42 kg for straightforward rack mounting. A single 50-pin male connector links this board to the main controller. Additionally, the board provides one Profibus DP master communication port.

Parameter	Specification
Brand	General Electric (GE)
Full Model	A16B-3200-0220
Category	Profibus Master Board
Dimensions (L x W)	26.0 cm x 18.5 cm (10.24″ x 7.28″)
Board Weight	0.42 kg (0.93 lbs)
Primary Interface	1 x 50-pin Male Connector (to Main Controller)
Profibus Port	1 x 9-pin D-Sub Female (Profibus DP)
Profibus Protocol	DP-V0 and DP-V1 Master
Transmission Rate	9.6 kbps to 12 Mbps (Auto Detection)
Maximum Slave Devices	126 Addressable Stations
Maximum I/O Data	244 Bytes Input + 244 Bytes Output per Message
Bus Termination	External Active Terminator Required
On-Board Components	1 Profibus ASIC + 1 Isolated Transceiver + 1 Oscillator (24 MHz) + 4 Protection Diodes
Memory Resources	32 kB Dual-Port RAM + 8 kB Flash
Energy Storage	2 x 100 µF Tantalum Capacitors (16V) + 1 x 470 µF Electrolytic (25V)
Operating Voltage	+5 VDC and +24 VDC from Backplane
Isolation Rating	500 VDC (Profibus Port to Logic)
Bus Access	Token Passing (Master Class 1)
Operating Temperature	0°C to +55°C (32°F to 131°F)
Configuration Tool	GSD File Based (Any Profibus Configurator)

Energy Storage and Bus Stability

The GE A16B-3200-0220 stores energy using three capacitors of different types. Tantalum capacitors filter high-frequency noise from the Profibus transceiver power. The electrolytic capacitor provides hold-up energy for the ASIC during bus arbitration. Consequently, this board maintains stable master operation at all baud rates.

Installation and Network Layout

You will find the Profibus D-Sub connector on the board’s front bracket edge. An external active terminator must sit at both cable ends for reliable operation. The board also features four mounting holes for secure rack attachment. Thus, it fits seamlessly into any standard GE CNC or Series 90 slot.