Description

The GE IC660BBD022 is a high-performance communication interface module from the GE Fanuc Genius® I/O system, specifically designed as a Genius Bus to DeviceNet Scanner. This module acts as a sophisticated protocol gateway, enabling seamless bidirectional data exchange between the deterministic Genius bus network and the widely adopted DeviceNet fieldbus. The core function of the GE IC660BBD022 is to map data from up to 32 Genius devices (such as discrete and analog I/O blocks) into the DeviceNet network, making them appear as native DeviceNet nodes to a DeviceNet master scanner located in a PLC or control system. This allows systems primarily using DeviceNet, such as those based on Allen-Bradley controllers, to easily integrate and leverage the extensive range of robust and reliable Genius I/O products. Conversely, it also enables a Genius-based system to communicate with DeviceNet devices. The GE IC660BBD022 is engineered for industrial reliability, providing electrical isolation between the networks and sophisticated diagnostic capabilities for both sides of the gateway. It is an indispensable tool for modernizing control systems, integrating equipment from different vendors, and creating flexible, hybrid network architectures without the need for extensive rewiring.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Bidirectional Protocol Translation: The primary advantage of the GE IC660BBD022 is its ability to act as a true bidirectional gateway. It scans the configured Genius devices on one side and makes their I/O data available in a pre-defined mapping within its DeviceNet object model. This allows a DeviceNet master to read inputs from and write outputs to Genius blocks as if they were standard DeviceNet modules, seamlessly integrating two powerful but different industrial networks.

Simplified System Integration and Flexibility: This module dramatically simplifies the process of integrating Genius I/O into a DeviceNet-based control system, or vice versa. It eliminates the need for complex custom programming in a controller to handle protocol conversion, as the data mapping is configured directly on the GE IC660BBD022. This provides immense flexibility, allowing engineers to select the best I/O for the application regardless of the host control system’s native network, protecting investments in existing installed equipment.

Robust Diagnostics and Configuration: The GE IC660BBD022 provides comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for both networks. Status LEDs offer immediate visual feedback on power, network health, and operational faults for both the Genius bus and the DeviceNet segment. Configuration is straightforward using DIP switches for Node Address and baud rate, while more detailed I/O mapping is typically performed using dedicated software tools, ensuring the gateway is optimized for the specific application.

Proven Industrial Reliability: Designed for the harsh environment of the factory floor, the module includes 1500V of isolation between the Genius bus and DeviceNet networks. This protects both networks from ground loops and electrical noise transients that could originate on either side, ensuring maximum system uptime and data integrity. Its design is based on GE’s extensive experience with both network technologies, guaranteeing stable and reliable performance.

Application Field

The GE IC660BBD022 is deployed in industrial automation scenarios where there is a need to bridge the gap between a system based on GE’s Genius I/O and a control system that uses DeviceNet as its primary fieldbus. A common application is in automotive manufacturing plants, where an existing Allen-Bradley ControlLogix system (using DeviceNet) needs to integrate a legacy machine or a new cell that utilizes a large amount of proven and reliable Genius I/O. It is also used in material handling systems and water treatment plants to connect Genius remote I/O panels to a DeviceNet backbone for centralized control. The GE IC660BBD022 is the ideal solution for modernization projects, allowing facilities to extend the life of their valuable Genius I/O assets while migrating their central control platform to a newer system that natively supports DeviceNet, thereby creating a cost-effective hybrid architecture.

IC660BBD022 GE

Related Products

GE IC660BBD021: A similar Genius to DeviceNet scanner, potentially with different firmware or feature revisions.

GE Genius I/O Blocks (e.g., BCM003, BEM011): The discrete and analog I/O blocks that are connected to the Genius bus side of the scanner.

GE Series 90-30 PLC with Genius Bus Controller (e.g., IC693BEM331): An alternative way to manage Genius I/O for a native GE system.

Allen-Bradley 1756-DNB / 1771-SDN: DeviceNet scanner modules for ControlLogix and PLC-5/SLC-500 systems, which would be the master on the DeviceNet side of the IC660BBD022.

GE DeviceNet Compatible Drives: Variable frequency drives that can be connected directly to the same DeviceNet network as the scanner.