FAQs (Q&A)

Here are 10 frequently asked questions, in a straightforward style:

Q1: What does the “161216‑01” refer to?
A1: It is the part number / revision number of the I/O portion of the module; the 3500/91 consists of a main module plus an I/O module (161216‑01 is the Ethernet I/O module for 10BASE‑T/100BASE‑TX or similar).

Q2: Can I install more than one 3500/91 Gateway in the same 3500 rack?
A2: No, only one 3500/91 EGD gateway module is allowed per rack. Using more than one can lead to conflicts in data exchange and system configuration.

Q3: What firmware or software versions are required for the module to operate correctly?
A3: The firmware version of the 3500/22M TDI must be at or above a certain version (often 1.20 or higher), and the 3500 rack configuration software likewise must be updated to a version that supports the 3500/91 gateway.

Q4: What types of external systems can be integrated with this module?
A4: DCS, SCADA, PLCs, controllers compatible with EGD (Ethernet Global Data) protocol, or systems that accept UDP/IP or standard Ethernet, to receive monitored values, alarm status, etc.

Q5: Does the module support fiber optic communication?
A5: Yes, via the I/O module variant supporting 100BASE‑FX (fiber optic) using MT‑RJ connectors if that I/O module is chosen.

Q6: What happens to system alarms or trip signals – can they be triggered via the gateway?
A6: The gateway is mainly for data export / import of control commands like alarming or group reset, alarm inhibit, etc., but it does not itself replace the monitor or relay modules that perform the actual trip or shutdown function.

Q7: What are the environmental limits for operation?
A7: Operating temp approx −30 °C to +65 °C; storage −40 °C to +85 °C; relative humidity up to ~95% non‑condensing.

Q8: What power supply does it need?
A8: It draws its power from the 3500 rack backplane; typical power consumption ~7.4 watts. No external power supply needed beyond the rack’s normal supply.

Q9: How is data latency / response time for external controllers?
A9: It supports Ethernet at 10/100 Mbps, EGD protocol, which is designed for time‑sensitive exchanges; performance depends on network configuration, but it is built to provide response times suitable for controller / alarm tasks.

Q10: What physical size / weight is this module; how difficult is it to install?
A10: The main module is about 241.3 × 24.4 × 241.8 mm, weighing ~0.79 kg; the I/O module is 241.3 × 24.4 × 99.1 mm weighing ~0.39 kg. Installation involves inserting into the 3500 rack slots (main front slot, I/O rear slot), connecting Ethernet/fiber as required, and configuring via the rack configuration software. It is not very heavy, but attention to rack alignment and connectors is needed.