DS3800HLNA - MicroVax Network Controller Card

SPECIFICATIONS:

Part Number: DS3800HLNA
Manufacturer: General Electric
Series: Mark IV
Product Type: MicroVax Network Controller Card
Input Signal Types: Voltage (±10V, 0-10V)
Communication Interface: SPI, I2C, USB, PCI
Input Configuration: Single-ended
Supported Signal Range: ±10V, 0-10V, 0-5V, 4-20mA
Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Size: 8.25 cm high x 4.18 cm
Repair: 3-7 Days
Availability: In Stock
Weight: 2 lbs
Country of Origin: United States

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF DS3800HLNA:

DS3800HLNA is a MicroVax Network Controller Card manufactured and designed by General Electric as part of the Mark IV Series used in GE Speedtronic Gas Turbine Control Systems. The Network Controller Card connects a MicroVAX system to an external network, allowing communication with other computers, controllers, or devices. It provides a physical network interface, typically using 10 Mbps Ethernet and an RJ‑45 connector. The card manages the transfer of data between the system bus (such as Q‑bus) and the network, converting parallel CPU data into network packets and vice versa. It handles network protocols like DECnet or Ethernet, offloading low-level communication tasks from the CPU. The card monitors for network errors and hardware faults, reporting them to the host system through status registers or LEDs. It also ensures compatibility with legacy systems, providing reliable communication while protecting the CPU from electrical disturbances on the network.

OPERATIONS:

The Network Controller Card is initialized by performing self-checks and setting up communication with the system bus. It continuously monitors the network for incoming data, captures valid packets, and transfers them to the system memory while notifying the CPU of new data. When the CPU needs to send information, the card formats it into network frames, applies error checking, and transmits it over the network. The card manages communication protocols, detects and reports errors or collisions, and ensures continuous, reliable data exchange while maintaining compatibility with legacy systems.

COMPATIBILITY:

It integrates effortlessly with MicroVAX systems and GE Mark IV controllers that utilize Q‑bus connectivity. It is compatible with both DECnet and 10 Mbps Ethernet networks, facilitating data exchange across legacy networks. The card works in conjunction with VMS and Ultrix operating systems, ensuring proper communication and system performance. Verifying firmware and hardware revisions against the host system ensures maximum reliability and avoids network conflicts.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is a DS3800HLNA?

A MicroVAX Network Controller Card is a hardware component designed to support network communication in compatible legacy computer and control systems. It facilitates data exchange between the host system and connected network devices. Its exact communication functions depend on the card's hardware design and system configuration.

Which communication interfaces does the card support?

Supported communication interfaces depend on the card's hardware design and revision. The interface type determines how the card connects to the host system and other devices. Consult the original GE documentation to verify supported protocols and connection requirements.

What checks are required if the card fails to communicate with the host system?

Inspect the card connections, backplane seating, power supply, and associated communication cabling. Review system diagnostics and status indicators for initialization failures or communication errors. Follow the manufacturer's troubleshooting procedures to identify the source of the fault.

What causes intermittent network communication failures?

Intermittent communication problems can result from loose connections, damaged cables, electrical interference, or unstable power. Hardware faults and configuration mismatches may also interrupt data exchange. Review diagnostic logs and inspect the connected interfaces to narrow down the cause.