Product Overview

The GE IC200CHS112 VersaMax Relay-Type Plug-in Input/Output Terminal Block with Expansion Base is a specialized terminal and expansion-base component designed for GE VersaMax industrial automation systems. It provides an interface for integrating compatible I/O modules and relay-type field connections into a modular control architecture.

The IC200CHS112 combines a relay-type plug-in I/O terminal block with an expansion base, allowing the VersaMax I/O configuration to be extended while maintaining an organized field connection structure.

This type of component is useful in industrial control applications where discrete field signals need to be connected through a structured terminal interface. Relay-oriented I/O arrangements can be particularly useful for interfacing control-system outputs with external loads or for providing electrical isolation between control electronics and field circuits, depending on the associated I/O architecture.

With specified dimensions of 253.7 × 126 × 73 mm and a weight of approximately 0.79 kg, the IC200CHS112 provides an extended I/O interface suitable for larger VersaMax control panels and distributed I/O installations.

Technical Specifications

Function and Working Principle

The IC200CHS112 combines two important functions within a VersaMax I/O architecture: field termination and I/O system expansion.

Relay-Type I/O Interface

The relay-type configuration is intended for discrete control applications where relay-based switching is required.

Depending on the associated I/O system, relay interfaces can be useful when controlling or monitoring external circuits such as:

• Contactors
• Solenoid valves
• Motor starters
• Indicator devices
• Interposing relays
• Machine control circuits
• Discrete alarm circuits

The actual electrical characteristics depend on the compatible I/O module and the connected field circuit.

Plug-in Design

The plug-in construction allows compatible I/O components to be integrated into the terminal-base arrangement.

This modular approach can make maintenance more efficient because the I/O electronics and field termination can be organized as replaceable system components.

Expansion Base Function

The expansion-base configuration allows the I/O architecture to be extended beyond a single compact terminal arrangement.

This is useful when an automation system requires additional I/O channels as machine functionality or process requirements increase.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The IC200CHS112 serves as part of the physical connection and expansion infrastructure of a VersaMax distributed I/O system.

A simplified architecture can be represented as:

PLC / Controller → VersaMax Network / I/O Interface → IC200CHS112 Expansion Base → I/O Module → Relay-Type Field Circuit

The terminal block does not replace the PLC controller.

The controller executes the application logic, while compatible I/O modules process input and output signals. The IC200CHS112 provides the terminal and expansion interface required to connect these I/O functions with the field.

For example, an automation system may use:

PLC Output → I/O Module → IC200CHS112 → Relay Circuit → Contactor → Motor

or:

Field Contact → IC200CHS112 → Input Module → VersaMax Controller

This architecture provides a structured interface between low-level control electronics and external industrial equipment.

Industrial Applications

The GE IC200CHS112 can be applied in a wide range of VersaMax-based industrial automation systems.

Typical applications include:

• Factory automation
• Machine control
• Packaging machinery
• Conveyor systems
• Motor-control panels
• Assembly equipment
• Manufacturing lines
• Pump control
• Process monitoring
• Industrial alarm systems
• Material handling
• Automated production equipment
• Distributed I/O systems
• OEM machinery

The expansion-base design is especially useful when the number of required I/O connections exceeds the capacity of a basic configuration.

Relay-Type I/O Applications

Relay-type interfaces can provide flexibility when a control system needs to interact with external discrete circuits.

Typical applications include controlling:

Contactors

The control system can use a relay-based output interface to operate a contactor that switches a larger motor or industrial load.

Solenoid Valves

Relay-type outputs can be used as part of a control circuit for pneumatic or hydraulic solenoid valves, subject to the electrical ratings of the complete circuit.

Alarm Circuits

Relay contacts can be integrated into machine alarm and status circuits.

Interposing Control

A relay interface can provide an intermediate switching stage between automation electronics and an external control circuit.

The exact application must always be evaluated against the electrical specifications of the installed I/O module and external load.

Expansion Base Function

The expansion-base design is important for larger automation systems.

A small machine may only require a limited number of I/O points. A larger production system can require significantly more channels for:

• Sensors
• Actuators
• Motors
• Valves
• Safety-related status signals
• Process instruments
• Machine interlocks
• Alarms

An expansion-base arrangement allows additional I/O resources to be integrated into the control architecture without replacing the entire system.

This modular approach can help reduce cabinet redesign and simplify future system expansion.

Installation and System Integration

Proper installation is essential for reliable operation of the IC200CHS112 and its connected I/O components.

Mechanical Installation

The terminal block and expansion base should be securely mounted according to the VersaMax system arrangement.

Before installation, verify:

• Correct model
• Compatible I/O module
• Correct expansion configuration
• Mounting arrangement
• Cabinet clearance
• Cable access
• Maintenance space

Because the specified length is 253.7 mm, sufficient cabinet space should be reserved for the complete assembly and associated wiring.

I/O Module Installation

The compatible I/O module should be installed according to the system configuration.

Technicians should confirm:

1. Correct module type.
2. Correct installation position.
3. Proper mechanical engagement.
4. Secure electrical connection.
5. Correct expansion-base arrangement.

Relay and Field Wiring

Field wiring should be connected according to the electrical requirements of the installed module and relay circuit.

Before energizing the system, verify:

• Terminal assignment
• Contact configuration
• Load wiring
• Polarity where applicable
• Wire identification
• Connection security
• Grounding
• Separation of control and power wiring

Particular attention should be paid to relay-controlled loads because inductive loads can generate electrical transients.

Commissioning

A controlled commissioning process should include:

1. Inspect the terminal block and expansion base.
2. Verify all I/O modules.
3. Check field wiring.
4. Confirm power connections.
5. Energize the system.
6. Verify controller communication.
7. Check I/O status.
8. Test relay outputs.
9. Verify field-device response.
10. Confirm normal machine operation.

Compatible System Components

The IC200CHS112 can operate as part of a larger VersaMax automation system.

The actual system configuration depends on the required I/O functions and field devices.

IC200CHS112 for System Expansion

One of the main reasons to use an expansion-base configuration is to accommodate changing I/O requirements.

For example, an original machine may require only:

• 16 digital inputs
• 8 digital outputs

After production upgrades, the same machine may need additional:

• Position sensors
• Temperature monitoring
• Valve controls
• Motor status signals
• Alarm outputs

Instead of completely redesigning the control architecture, an expandable VersaMax I/O arrangement can provide additional connection capacity.

This modular approach can reduce engineering changes and make future upgrades more manageable.

Recommended Alternative Models

Different VersaMax carrier and terminal configurations can be considered depending on the required connection method and I/O architecture.

These components have different connection structures and application roles. They should not automatically be considered interchangeable.

Key Advantages

• Designed for GE VersaMax automation systems
• Relay-type plug-in I/O terminal configuration
• Includes expansion-base functionality
• Supports modular distributed I/O architecture
• Provides structured field connections
• Suitable for discrete control circuits
• Supports system expansion
• Useful for relay and contactor control
• Supports modular I/O maintenance
• Suitable for machine-control applications
• Helps organize larger I/O installations
• Dimensions of approximately 253.7 × 126 × 73 mm
• Weight of approximately 0.79 kg

Technical FAQs

What is GE IC200CHS112?

The GE IC200CHS112 is a VersaMax Relay-Type Plug-in Input/Output Terminal Block with Expansion Base designed to provide field connection and I/O expansion functionality within a VersaMax automation system.

Is IC200CHS112 an I/O module?

No. It is a terminal and expansion-base component. The associated I/O module performs the primary signal-processing function.

What are the dimensions of IC200CHS112?

The specified dimensions are 253.7 × 126 × 73 mm.

What is the weight of IC200CHS112?

The specified weight is approximately 0.79 kg.

What is the main purpose of the expansion base?

The expansion base allows the VersaMax I/O configuration to accommodate additional I/O resources as system requirements increase.

What can relay-type I/O control?

Depending on the associated module and electrical ratings, relay-type I/O can be used with devices such as contactors, solenoid valves, relays, alarms and other discrete control circuits.

Where is IC200CHS112 used?

It is used in GE VersaMax industrial automation systems, particularly applications requiring modular I/O expansion and relay-oriented field connections.

Is IC200CHS112 suitable for motor-control applications?

It can be part of a motor-control system where relay outputs are used in an appropriate control circuit, such as controlling a contactor. The actual load and electrical interface must be matched to the applicable ratings.

Can IC200CHS112 replace IC200CHS101?

Not automatically. IC200CHS112 has a relay-type terminal and expansion-base configuration, while IC200CHS101 is a disconnectable plug-in main-base configuration. The complete system architecture must be checked before replacement.

Does IC200CHS112 execute control logic?

No. Control logic is executed by the VersaMax controller. The terminal block provides the connection and expansion infrastructure for the I/O system.

Conclusion

The GE IC200CHS112 VersaMax Relay-Type Plug-in I/O Terminal Block with Expansion Base is a specialized component for modular industrial automation and distributed I/O systems. It combines a relay-oriented plug-in terminal arrangement with an expansion-base configuration, providing a structured way to connect field circuits while extending the I/O architecture.

With specified dimensions of 253.7 × 126 × 73 mm and a weight of approximately 0.79 kg, the IC200CHS112 is designed for larger VersaMax control installations where additional I/O capacity and organized field connections are required.

Its relay-type interface makes it suitable for discrete control applications involving contactors, solenoids, relays, alarms and other industrial control circuits, while its expansion capability supports the gradual growth of machine and process I/O requirements.

For replacement and system-integration projects, engineers should verify the existing VersaMax controller, I/O module, terminal configuration, expansion architecture and field-circuit requirements before installation. When a relay-type plug-in terminal with expansion capability is required, the GE IC200CHS112 provides a practical solution for building and maintaining modular VersaMax industrial control systems.