The GE IC660BSM021 is a Bus Switching Module (BSM) engineered for the Genius I/O system, a distributed control system architecture developed by GE Fanuc. The IC660BSM021 plays a pivotal role in providing network redundancy and seamless bus switching in applications where uptime and fault tolerance are critical.

This module is primarily used to link redundant communication buses in Genius I/O networks. It enables automatic or manual switching between primary and backup buses in the event of a network fault or planned maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted data communication across connected I/O blocks, controllers, and other field devices.

Designed for industrial environments, the IC660BSM021 enhances system reliability without introducing unnecessary complexity. It is commonly installed in high-availability control applications such as process plants, power generation facilities, and manufacturing systems requiring 24/7 operation.

Product Specifications

Applications

The GE IC660BSM021 is specifically designed for critical control systems where communication reliability is essential. Typical application areas include:

• Process Automation: Used in refineries, petrochemical plants, and food processing where uninterrupted control is vital.

• Power Generation: Ensures constant communication between DCS systems and field devices in fossil fuel or renewable energy plants.

• Manufacturing Automation: Keeps assembly lines, robotics, and monitoring devices online even during network disturbances.

• Water Treatment Facilities: Supports SCADA-based systems with redundant networks to maintain remote site communications.

• Transportation Systems: Applied in rail automation and airport baggage handling where failover capability is essential.

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Ensures compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 by maintaining data integrity during communication switchover.

Advantages

• Automatic Failover: Seamlessly switches to backup bus in the event of a primary bus fault, avoiding system downtime.

• Manual Override Capability: Allows technicians to manually control bus selection during testing or maintenance.

• Enhanced Network Uptime: Supports continuous operation of mission-critical systems with minimal human intervention.

• Compact and Lightweight: Designed to fit easily into control panels with limited space.

• Diagnostic Visibility: Built-in LED indicators help in quick identification of active bus status and fault conditions.

• Robust Industrial Design: Withstands harsh environmental conditions including shock, vibration, and high humidity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Q: What is the main function of the IC660BSM021?

   A: It enables automatic or manual switching between two Genius Bus networks to ensure communication redundancy.

2. Q: Can this module be used in a single-bus network?

   A: While it can technically be installed, its primary benefit is realized in dual-bus, redundant communication networks.

3. Q: How does it detect a bus fault?

   A: The module monitors bus health and automatically switches to the backup if communication loss or fault is detected.

4. Q: What power source does it use?

   A: It typically receives 5 VDC power from the backplane or the connected block.

5. Q: Are status indicators included?

   A: Yes, LED indicators are included for monitoring bus activity, faults, and module status.

6. Q: Is this module hot-swappable?

   A: No, it should be replaced during system shutdown to avoid communication interruption.

7. Q: Can this module be configured through software?

   A: Configuration is minimal; it is primarily a hardware-based failover module, with limited settings required.

8. Q: How is it mounted in control systems?

   A: It can be mounted using a DIN rail or screwed onto a panel.

9. Q: What happens if both buses fail?

   A: Communication will halt; however, the module attempts to re-establish connection as soon as one bus becomes available.

10. Q: What kind of systems typically use this module?

    A: Any Genius I/O based system requiring high availability, such as process control or power generation, can benefit from this module.