Description
📍 The Woodward 9905-973 (LinkNet 8-Channel Relay Module) is a specialized distributed I/O module engineered for industrial turbine control, compressor management, and prime mover automation systems, providing high-reliability discrete switching and signal actuation over a distributed communication network.
🔧 Product Datasheet Parameters
- 🌐 Brand & Model: Woodward / 9905-973 / LinkNet Module
- 🏷️ Type: 8-Channel Relay Output Module / Distributed I/O Termination Unit
- 📏 Dimensions: Standard industrial rack-mountable or panel-mounted module housing format measuring approximately 20.0 cm x 15.0 cm x 5.0 cm
- ⚖️ Weight: Approximately 0.8 kg
- 🌍 Country of Origin: United States / Europe
- ⚡ Power Supply: Standard internal operating power derived via the LinkNet power and communication bus architecture (typically DC 24 V auxiliary power)
- 🔌 Output Channels: 8 independent, high-capacity relay output channels designed for driving external solenoids, heavy-duty contactors, and alarm annunciators
- 💻 Compatibility: Fully integrated within Woodward LinkNet distributed control networks, MicroNet, and Atlas digital control platforms
- 🔗 Communication Interfaces: High-speed LinkNet serial communication bus connection linking directly to the primary control processor
- 🛡️ Enclosure Protection: Rugged industrial housing engineered to withstand heavy electrical noise, vibration, and thermal fluctuations in harsh turbine enclosure environments
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
💡 Q1: What is the primary function of the Woodward 9905-973 module? A1: It acts as a distributed output interface that receives digital commands from a master controller and switches high-current relay outputs to control external industrial actuators or alarms.
💡 Q2: Which system environments typically deploy LinkNet modules? A2: They are widely utilized in gas and steam turbine management systems, compressor skids, diesel engine controls, and power generation auxiliary packages.
💡 Q3: How does the module communicate with the main controller? A3: It communicates over the dedicated Woodward LinkNet network bus, allowing remote placement of I/O modules closer to field equipment to reduce extensive wiring runs.
💡 Q4: What types of loads can be connected to the relay outputs? A4: The 8 relay channels are capable of switching standard industrial control voltages and currents, making them suitable for driving fuel valves, auxiliary relays, and safety interlocks.
💡 Q5: Are diagnostic indicators included on the unit? A5: Yes, front-panel LED indicators provide real-time visual feedback regarding module power status, network communication health, and individual relay channel activation.
💡 Q6: Is this exact model currently in active standard factory production? A6: This hardware is part of Woodward’s established legacy LinkNet product lines, primarily acquired through authorized turbine control distributors and specialized industrial spare parts suppliers.
💡 Q7: What storage conditions are recommended for this module? A7: It should be stored in an antistatic bag within a temperature-controlled environment ranging from -25°C to +70°C.
💡 Q8: Does the unit require software addressing or configuration? A8: Yes, LinkNet modules typically require proper hardware node configuration or software-defined addressing so the master controller can correctly identify and route signals to the device.
💡 Q9: What protective features are built into the circuit design? A9: The circuitry incorporates robust optical isolation on communication lines, surge suppression, and protective fusing to guard against electrical transients and miswiring.
💡 Q10: Can this module operate as a standalone controller? A10: No, it functions strictly as a distributed slave I/O device requiring a master controller (such as a Woodward MicroNet system) to execute application logic and command instructions.
🔄 Recommended Alternative Series and Models from Woodward
- ⚙️ Woodward 9905-970 – LinkNet 16-channel discrete input module for signal monitoring.
- ⚙️ Woodward 9905-972 – LinkNet analog input/output expansion module.
- ⚙️ Woodward MicroNet Plus – Advanced modular digital controller platform for prime mover automation.
- ⚙️ Woodward Atlas Digital Control – Cost-effective turbine and engine management system.
- ⚙️ Woodward NetCon – High-availability distributed control system for complex industrial machinery.
- ⚙️ Woodward ProTech-SX – Programmable overspeed safety shutdown system.
- ⚙️ Woodward CPC-II – Current-to-pressure electro-hydraulic valve actuator driver.
- ⚙️ Woodward LinkNet Power Supply Unit – Dedicated bus power distribution module for LinkNet nodes.
- ⚙️ Woodward Digitally Configurable I/O Card – Flexible signal interface module for control racks.
- ⚙️ Woodward GAP Software Tool – Graphical Application Programmer software environment for system configuration.

