Description
Product Overview
Part Number: 8701-CA-BI
Manufacturer: Originally GE Intelligent Platforms (PAC8000 later acquired by MTL / Emerson)
Product Series: PAC8000 Modular Remote I/O System
Type: Multi-BIM / Redundant BIM Carrier Backplane 8701-CA-BI is the dedicated redundant BIM carrier for GE PAC8000 remote I/O system. It is designed to accommodate
two Bus Interface Modules (BIM) for 1:1 redundant host communication. It provides Railbus internal backplane connection between BIM modules, external PROFIBUS DP ports and downstream I/O carriers such as 8707-CA-08. It transfers host bus communication, power and address signals to the PAC8000 I/O rack. Supports DIN rail or flat panel installation and certified for Zone2 hazardous area deployment. Widely used in oil & gas, petrochemical and chemical plants for field remote signal acquisition and control.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 8701-CA-BI |
| Product Type | Multi-BIM Redundant Carrier |
| Applicable System | GE PAC8000 Remote I/O |
| BIM Slots | 2 slots for dual redundant BIM modules |
| Internal Bus | Railbus, connects to downstream I/O carriers |
| Host Interface | Dual 9-pin D-sub PROFIBUS DP connectors |
| Mounting | 35mm DIN rail or flat panel mounting |
| Ground Terminal | 2 × M4 screw protective earth terminals |
| Certification | ATEX, IECEx for Zone2, IIC T4 hazardous area |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C ~ +70°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C ~ +85°C |
| Weight | Approx 0.72kg |
Engineer Notes
- 8701-CA-BI only acts as BIM carrier backplane; it must be fitted with BIM modules (such as 8507-BI-DP PROFIBUS DP BIM) and paired with I/O carrier like 8707-CA-08. It cannot run standalone.
- Dual BIM slots support hot redundant communication configuration. If primary BIM fails, standby BIM takes over automatically without disrupting field I/O.
- PROFIBUS DP dual D-sub ports support redundant PROFIBUS network to host PLC/controller.
- Connects via Railbus cable to I/O carrier racks to expand analog/digital I/O channels.
- Mechanical keying prevents wrong module insertion, maintains intrinsic safety for hazardous field installations.
- Requires external DC power supply (8910-PS-DC or BQ2320-9R-EX). Power supply is not included on this carrier.
- PAC8000 system can connect to GE PACSystems RX3i controllers via PROFIBUS DP BIM.
Pre-Shipment Test Protocol
- Visual inspection of PCB, D-sub connectors, Railbus port, screw terminals and housing
- Railbus backplane continuity test
- Insulation resistance test for power and signal traces
- BIM slot mechanical insertion and locking test
- Protective earth terminal continuity verification
- Label and part number verification
- Anti-static & shockproof packaging inspection
Buyer FAQ
Q: Is GE 8701-CA-BI new original? A: We supply brand new original GE units, 12-month warranty, factory test certificate available on request.
Q: What does CA-BI mean? A: CA = Carrier; BI = Bus Interface, it is the dedicated carrier for BIM bus interface modules.
Q: What is the difference between 8701-CA-BI and 8707-CA-08? A: 8701-CA-BI: BIM carrier, holds 2 communication BIM modules, connects host network. 8707-CA-08: I/O carrier, holds up to 8 analog/digital I/O modules for field signals.
Q: Can 8701-CA-BI work with redundant BIM? A: Yes, it supports two BIM modules installed together for 1:1 hot redundancy of PROFIBUS DP communication.
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