General Description

The UCSC Quad-Core Independent Controller (Customized Version) is a high-performance controller developed for GE Mark VIe control systems, featuring an extended Ethernet interface configuration to support complex network topologies and multi-system integration.

The controller operates independently with no onboard application I/O, executing real-time control logic and exchanging data exclusively with distributed I/O modules via the IONet industrial Ethernet network. The customized 7-port Ethernet design enables enhanced connectivity for I/O networks, HMI/DCS systems, engineering workstations, and auxiliary data services.

Processor and Operating System

Processor: AMD G-Series quad-core processor

Clock frequency: 1.2 GHz

Operating system: QNX® Neutrino real-time operating system

The quad-core architecture supports parallel execution of control algorithms, diagnostics, communications, and background services while maintaining deterministic real-time performance.

Memory and Storage

System memory: 4 GB DDR3-1333 SDRAM

Non-volatile storage: 8 GB NAND Flash

This configuration supports advanced control applications, large I/O datasets, extended diagnostics, and long-term operational data storage.

Communication Interfaces

Ethernet ports:

7 × RJ-45 Ethernet ports

Includes IONet industrial Ethernet interface

Supported protocols:

Modbus TCP/IP

PROFINET

Native Mark VIe control and diagnostic protocols

The expanded Ethernet interface enables flexible separation of IONet traffic, operator and engineering access, third-party system integration, and redundant communication paths.

Power Supply

Input voltage: 18–30 VDC

Nominal: 24 / 28 VDC

Power consumption:

Rated: approximately 35 W

Peak: approximately 50 W

Environmental Specifications

Operating temperature: −40 ℃ to +70 ℃

Storage temperature: −40 ℃ to +85 ℃

Designed for reliable operation in harsh industrial and power-generation environments.

Mechanical Specifications

Dimensions: approx. 168 mm × 150 mm × 55 mm

Weight: approx. 1.33 kg

Protection class: IP20 (cabinet installation)

Cooling method: Fanless natural convection

The fanless design eliminates moving parts, improving reliability and reducing maintenance requirements.

Redundancy and Availability

Supports Simplex, Dual, and TMR (Triple Modular Redundancy) system architectures

All process I/O handled through distributed I/O modules via IONet

Supports hot plugging and online firmware updates, enabling maintenance without process interruption

Certifications and Compliance

CE

UL

IEC 61131

SIL 3

Other applicable industrial and safety certifications

Core Features

High-performance quad-core processing for complex real-time control

Customized 7-port Ethernet architecture for enhanced system connectivity

Distributed I/O communication via IONet industrial Ethernet

Fanless industrial design for high reliability

Fully compatible with Mark VIe fault-tolerant architectures

Typical Applications

Mark VIe control systems for:

Large gas turbines

Steam turbines

Compressors

Generators

Main unit control with complex auxiliary (BOP) systems

Distributed control stations requiring:

Multiple Ethernet segments

Advanced I/O networking

Integration with DCS, HMI, and third-party automation systems

Key Advantages

Extended Ethernet capability simplifies network design and system expansion

Quad-core CPU enables advanced control algorithms and real-time data processing

Wide temperature range and fanless design for harsh industrial environments

SIL 3-certified architecture suitable for high-reliability and safety-critical applications

GE IS420UCSCH2A-C-V0.1-A｜Mark VIe Controller｜