Description
Product Technical Parameters
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | General Electric (GE) / Harris |
| Model | D20ME II |
| Part Number | 820-0516/02 |
| Series | WESDAC D20 / D200 RTU |
| Processor | 32-bit Main Processing Unit |
| Memory | High-capacity Flash and NVRAM for database storage |
| Communication | Support for DNP3, Modbus, and IEC protocols |
| Interface | Dual RS-232/485 serial ports and VME backplane |
| Clock | Battery-backed real-time clock (RTC) |
Product Datasheet

| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 23.3 cm x 16.0 cm x 2.4 cm |
| Weight | 0.74 kg (approx. 1.63 lbs) |
| Country of Origin | Canada / USA |
| Operating Temp | -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to +158°F) |
| Power Consumption | Typically 5W – 8W (via backplane) |
| Logic Voltage | +5V, +12V, -12V DC Rails |
| Mounting | VME Chassis / D20 Base unit slot |
Application Fields
The D20ME II is the primary intelligence module for the WESDAC D20 Remote Terminal Unit (RTU). Key applications include:
- Substation Automation and SCADA integration
- Power Distribution Network monitoring
- Utility Grid Management and Load Shedding
- Protocol Conversion (e.g., Serial to IP or DNP3 translation)
- Smart Grid data concentrator for downstream I/O modules
Product Instructions
- Installation: Power down the D20/D200 chassis before inserting the card. Slide the 820-0516/02 into the designated “Master” slot of the VME rack. Ensure the ejector levers are locked to maintain solid contact with the backplane.
- Configuration: Use the GE ConfigPro or SGConfig software to define the system database. The D20ME II handles the primary logic and maintains the master point database for all attached D20 peripheral modules (D20K, D20S, etc.).
- Battery Maintenance: Check the onboard lithium battery voltage if the unit has been in storage. This battery maintains the SRAM and clock settings during power loss. Replace with an equivalent 3.6V cell if the “Low Batt” alarm is triggered.
- Firmware Updates: Firmware is typically uploaded via the local maintenance port. Ensure a stable power supply during the update process to prevent corruption of the flash memory.
Product Q&A
Q: What is the difference between the D20ME and the D20ME II? A: The D20ME II (820-0516/02) offers significantly higher processing speeds and expanded memory capacity compared to the legacy ME board, allowing for more complex logic and larger point counts in SCADA systems.
Q: How can I tell if the processor is running correctly? A: The front panel features diagnostic LEDs. A flashing “Heartbeat” or “Run” LED indicates the CPU is active. If the “Fail” LED is lit, the board has encountered a hardware fault or a database mismatch.
Q: Does this board support Ethernet communication? A: The D20ME II primarily handles serial and backplane communication. To add Ethernet/IP capability, it is usually paired with a D20 Ethernet peripheral or an updated D20EME module.
Q: Can I swap an 820-0516/01 with an 820-0516/02? A: Yes, the /02 is generally a functional upgrade for the /01. However, you must ensure that your system configuration and firmware version support the specific hardware revision.
Similar Models Recommendation
- GE D20EME (Enhanced Main Processor)
- GE D20M++ Processor
- GE 517-0442 (D20ME II Variant)
- GE D20S Digital Input Module
- GE D20K Control Output Module

