Description
The ABB GCC960C103 (identified by part numbers 3BHE033067R0103 and 3BHE033068P106) is a sophisticated control and communication board primarily utilized in ABB’s Power Electronics systems. It is a core component in high-power excitation systems (such as UNITROL 6000) and static frequency converters (SFC), providing the computational power and interface logic required for synchronous machine control.
Product Technical Description
The GCC960C103 acts as a high-performance controller designed for real-time regulation. It handles complex mathematical models for motor or generator control, including voltage regulation, reactive power compensation, and synchronization logic.
- Integrated Architecture: Combines a powerful digital signal processor (DSP) with FPGA logic to handle high-speed pulse width modulation (PWM) and fiber-optic communication.
- Fiber-Optic Interface: Uses optical links to communicate with power modules (IGBT/Thyristor stacks) to ensure total galvanic isolation and immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- System Integration: Often used as the “Master” or “Follower” unit in redundant control configurations within the AC 800PEC control platform family.
- Reliability: Designed for heavy industrial use in power plants and marine propulsion systems where downtime is not an option.
Product Datasheet (Parameters)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Product ID | 3BHE033067R0103 / 3BHE033068P106 |
| Model Type | GCC960C103 |
| Control Platform | AC 800PEC / UNITROL 6000 |
| Processor | High-speed 32-bit DSP & RISC architecture |
| Communication | Fiber-optic links, Ethernet (Service), CAN/RS-485 |
| I/O Capacity | Managed via high-speed system bus |
| Supply Voltage | 24V DC (±10%) |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to +55°C (standard industrial range) |
| Mounting | Subrack / Frame mounted with secure locking |
| Country of Origin | Switzerland |
Technical Characteristics
- High-Speed Control Loops: Capable of executing sub-millisecond control cycles for precise voltage and current regulation.
- Watchdog Monitoring: Features hardware and software watchdogs to initiate a safe system shutdown or switchover in the event of a processor fault.
- Diagnostic Port: Equipped with a front-facing interface for connecting the ABB “Local Operating Panel” or a PC-based commissioning tool.
Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)
Q: What is the difference between 3BHE033067R0103 and 3BHE033068P106? A: Usually, the R-number (R0103) refers to the complete functional assembly (the board plus firmware/packaging), while the P-number (P106) refers to the bare printed circuit board or a specific sub-component of the assembly.
Q: Does this board require specific firmware before installation? A: Yes. The GCC960C103 is a programmable controller. It must be loaded with the application software specific to your excitation system or converter project using the ABB Control Builder tool.
Q: Can I hot-swap this board? A: No. In most UNITROL or SFC configurations, removing the main control board while the system is under load will cause an immediate trip. Power should be disconnected before removal.
Q: Why are there so many fiber-optic ports? A: These ports allow for high-speed, noise-free communication with multiple peripheral units, such as Measurement Boards (AI), Gate Driver Boards, and other GCC units in a redundant setup.
Similar Model Recommendations (8 Units)
- GCC960C101: An earlier revision or lower-tier variant of the GCC960 series.
- 3BHE022293R0101 (PPC907BE): A powerful PEC controller used in similar power electronics applications.
- COB961C101: A companion board often used for specialized communication or auxiliary logic.
- CIO962A102: An I/O interface board typically found in the same rack as the GCC960.
- 3BHE033067R0101: A different firmware or hardware revision of the GCC960 controller.
- 3BHE039017R0101: A related controller used in UNITROL 6000 systems.
- PM866K01: A standard AC 800M processor, used when general process logic is required alongside power control.
- 3BHE021889R0101: High-speed measurement or interface module used in ABB SFC systems.



