Description
- The WOODWARD 5501-371 is a high-reliability, 4-channel analog input module designed exclusively for the MicroNet Triple Modular Redundant (TMR) control system. This module provides a precise interface between field sensors (such as pressure, temperature, or flow transmitters) and the central control processors of a turbine or large engine system. Engineered for safety-critical configurations, the 5501-371 features an internal TMR architecture that splits, isolates, and cross-checks every analog signal across three independent channels before it reaches the system backplane, ensuring complete fault tolerance and eliminating single points of failure.
Product Parameters
- Brand: Woodward
- Model Number: 5501-371
- Module Type: Analog Input Module (TMR)
- Number of Channels: 4 Channels
- Input Signal Range: 4–20 mA or 0–5 VDC (Software Configurable)
- System Architecture: MicroNet TMR / VMEbus backplane compatible
- Resolution: 16-Bit Analog-to-Digital Conversion
- Isolation: 500 VDC channel-to-channel and channel-to-backplane isolation
- Power Requirements: Powered via MicroNet chassis backplane
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
- Status Indicators: Individual channel LEDs and Module Fault LED
This processing module utilizes sophisticated onboard filtering to eliminate high-frequency signal noise, delivering clean, deterministic data to the main CPUs to maintain optimal prime mover performance and safety.
Comparison with Similar Models
The 5501-371 is distinguished from the standard 5501-372 or simplex analog input modules by its specialized Triple Modular Redundant (TMR) hardware pathing. While Simplex modules route a single sensor signal directly to one processor, the 5501-371 contains three separate input circuits per channel, allowing the MicroNet system to perform “two-out-of-three” hardware voting. Additionally, compared to high-density 12-channel variants, this 4-channel model provides dedicated, isolated analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for each circuit, ensuring significantly faster sampling rates and robust galvanic isolation between channels.
Operation Tips
- Redundant Sensor Wiring: When wiring field transmitters to the 5501-371 in a TMR configuration, verify that the triple-terminal blocks are securely connected to distribute the sensor loop current evenly across all three internal monitoring legs.
- Shield Grounding: Always terminate the analog signal cable shields at the designated chassis ground point on the MicroNet cabinet, and never at both ends, to prevent ground loops from corrupting the 4–20 mA current readings.
- Loop Power Verification: Ensure the external loop power supply is stable and properly rated for the total circuit impedance; unexpected voltage drops can lead to out-of-range faults on the module’s diagnostic matrix.
- Seating and Locking: When hot-swapping or installing the module into the VME rack, use the integrated injector/ejector handles to fully seat the high-density multi-pin connectors into the backplane, then tighten the captive retention screws to ensure continuous grounding.
