IC660ELB910

IC660ELB910 is a Network Interface Board developed by GE. It is part of the Mark I and II control system. It is a sophisticated µGENI Network Interface Board designed and manufactured by GE Fanuc. This board functions as a daughterboard within a user’s microprocessor system, providing crucial interfacing capabilities between the µGENI and the motherboard of a CPU-type device. The µGENI allows the CPU (referred to as the host) to read and write to the general-purpose shared RAM on the µGENI, enabling efficient communication and control of the Genius I/O bus.

Interface and Functionality

• Optimized for IBM Personal-Computer Bus: While the µGENI’s RAM interface is optimized for the IBM personal-computer bus, it is adaptable to various other CPU types. This flexibility allows users to integrate the µGENI into a range of systems with different CPU architectures.
• Data Transfer and Host Utilization: The µGENI is designed to handle all data transfers between the host and the Genius I/O bus. By managing these transfers, the µGENI effectively frees up the host from the complexities of I/O communication, allowing it to focus on controlling remote I/O operations. The µGENI leverages the high reliability and noise immunity features of the Genius I/O system.
• Communication with Other Hosts: The µGENI also utilizes the communication features of the Genius LAN, enabling it to interact with other hosts. This capability enhances the flexibility and scalability of the system, facilitating broader network integration.

General-Purpose Controller Features

• Initialization and Fault Management: The µGENI acts as a general-purpose controller, handling initialization tasks and managing faults for over 30 bus devices. It maintains up-to-date images of each device’s status, ensuring effective monitoring and control.
• Communication Capabilities: The µGENI can communicate with other controllers using various communication methods, including Global Data, datagrams, and Directed Control Data messages. This versatility supports complex control and data exchange requirements within the system.

Component Overview

• 6303-Serial Interface Microprocessor: This microprocessor writes messages to the MIT chip, which manages the hardware interface to the bus. The MIT chip supports various functions such as error checking, LED driving, and timer operations.
• Transmit/Receive Circuit: The µGENI includes a transmit/receive circuit that works in conjunction with the MIT chip, handling bus transmit and receive signals to ensure accurate data transfer.
• Dual Port RAM: The µGENI uses dual port RAM to facilitate data exchange between the 6303 microprocessor and a manager microprocessor (64180). This RAM allows both processors to access memory equally, managed by a GAL that delivers memory on a byte-by-byte basis. The 64180 microprocessor also has an additional 8Kb of RAM dedicated solely to its operations.

Mounting and Installation

• Mounting Instructions: Users should mount the µGENI board to the motherboard using spacers such as screws, standoffs, or plastic PCB supports placed in the four corner holes of the motherboard. It is crucial not to use any adhesive products on the board.
• Airflow Considerations: To prevent overheating and ensure proper operation, the µGENI board should be mounted in a way that does not obstruct airflow across the board. It should not be installed within 1/8 inch of any other board or component on the motherboard.