The GE IC660ELB912 is a μGENI (Micro Genius) Network Interface Board manufactured by GE Fanuc, now part of Emerson Automation. It is designed to function as a daughterboard within a host microprocessor system, enabling communication and control over a Genius I/O bus network for industrial automation applications .
🏭 Application Scenarios
In an industrial setting such as an automotive manufacturing plant, the GE IC660ELB912 acts as a critical communication bridge. It is installed on a single-slot or dual-slot PCIM (IBM PC Interface Module) within a control cabinet . This setup allows a central host controller (e.g., an industrial computer) to manage up to 30 remote I/O devices on the Genius network—such as sensors on a assembly line and actuator valves on a paint shop conveyor—freeing the host from direct data transfer tasks and enabling efficient distributed control with high noise immunity .
⚙️ Technical Specifications
The table below summarizes the key parameters of the GE IC660ELB912 module.
💡 Technical Principles and Core Functions
The GE IC660ELB912 operates on sophisticated technical principles that differentiate it from standard I/O modules:
Dual-Processor Architecture: The module utilizes two microprocessors—a 6303 for serial communication and a 64180 manager—which work in tandem. They communicate via a 16 KB dual-port RAM, managed by a GAL (Generic Array Logic) to ensure seamless data exchange and prevent conflicts . This architecture effectively offloads communication processing from the host CPU.
Genius I/O Bus Interface: The module handles all data transfers between the host and the Genius I/O bus. It leverages the high reliability and noise immunity of the Genius protocol, making it suitable for harsh industrial environments. It also enables the host to communicate with other controllers on the network using Global Data, datagrams, and Directed Control Data messages .
Hardware Integration: The board must be physically mounted to a host motherboard using spacers or screws in its four corner holes, ensuring at least 1/8 inch of clearance from other components for proper airflow .
⚠️ Important Note on Information Accuracy
It is crucial to note that some search results contain significantly inaccurate descriptions of the GE IC660ELB912. incorrectly identifying it as a digital or analog I/O module with 16 channels and voltages of 24V or 220V . These descriptions are inconsistent with the more technically detailed and consistent information from supplier and manufacturer-oriented sources, which uniformly describe it as a 5V network interface daughterboard . Always refer to official GE/Emerson technical documentation for definitive specifications.
🛠️ Installation, Maintenance, and Support
Installation of the GE IC660ELB912 requires careful physical mounting to the host motherboard to ensure adequate cooling and avoid obstruction of airflow . Configuration is done through the host system, and the module is compatible with a Hand Held Monitor for diagnostics . If the module fails, specialized repair services are available, often backed by a warranty .
💎 Summary
The GE IC660ELB912 is a specialized network interface board that serves as a communications gateway within the GE Genius I/O system. Its core value lies in enabling robust, distributed control for industrial automation by efficiently managing data flow between a host controller and remote I/O devices.
