Description
1. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot
- Model & Brand: General Electric (GE), 8521-LC-MT (Ethernet / Network Interface Module)
- Physical Dimensions: Approximately 12.0 cm x 8.0 cm x 2.0 cm
- Estimated Shipping Weight: 0.3 kg (Boxed with custom antistatic cushioning; Net unit weight: 0.15 kg)
- What’s in the Box: GE communication module, integrated LC fiber interface ports, diagnostic indicator LEDs, and factory compliance slip (cabling and backplane mounting racks sold separately).
2. Product Introduction
Industrial control nodes demand robust communication interfaces capable of maintaining data integrity across high-noise electrical environments. The 8521-LC-MT module integrates directly into GE automation architectures, providing high-speed optical network connectivity for distributed control nodes.
Factory automation floors routinely expose control hardware to severe electromagnetic interference and broad thermal variations. Systems engineers rely on this specific fiber-optic module configuration to isolate network loops and prevent ground-loop discrepancies from impacting critical PLC data exchanges.
3. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Module Architecture | Network communication / Ethernet interface card |
| Interface Type | LC Fiber optic connector interface |
| Compatibility | GE / VersaMax / PACSystems control platforms |
| Power Consumption | Low-power logic board draw (< 5W) |
| Heat Dissipation | ~17.0 BTU/hr |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 85°C [-40°F to 185°F] |
| Diagnostic Features | Onboard status and link/activity LEDs |
| Enclosure Type | Open-style industrial control hardware |
4. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications
Third-party auditors examining industrial automation control panels mandate verifiable compliance documentation for all active communication modules.
- Expected Compliance Standards: CE Mark, UL/cUL Listed (Industrial Control Equipment), and RoHS compliance directives.
- Safety Significance: The CE and UL compliance frameworks confirm that internal optical transceivers maintain proper electrical isolation barriers, stopping high-voltage transient surges from propagating through shared network cabling into core processor racks.
- Verify specific lot certifications with General Electric or your authorized regional automation distributor prior to plant integration.
5. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide
Precision communication hardware kept in warehouse stockrooms remains susceptible to contact oxidation, static discharge, and moisture accumulation over long periods.
Keep the module inside its original factory multi-layer anti-static (ESD) and moisture-barrier bag to safeguard the delicate surface-mount components and optical transceiver ports from airborne sulfur and dust. Maintain stockroom climate parameters strictly below 60% relative humidity to prevent corrosion on connector pins. Inspect the module annually for physical integrity and verify optical port cleanliness prior to field staging.
6. Physical Installation Prerequisites
Proper mechanical alignment protects fragile backplane and optical connection interfaces from terminal damage during rack insertion. Maintain clear vertical and horizontal spacing around the module to prevent strain on incoming fiber-optic patch cables. Ensure the unit is seated squarely into its designated slot before locking any retention clips or fastening securing screws.
7. Buyer’s FAQ
- What is the correct Harmonized System (HS) tariff code for international shipments of this communication module?
- Industrial network and data transmission cards typically fall under HS Code 8517.62 (Machines for reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data). Confirm exact bindings with your customs broker.
- Does this module require any pre-installation software configuration?
- The hardware handles physical layer communication and link framing; network node parameters must be configured via the primary PLC programming software suite during system integration.
- What logistics factors apply regarding the Country of Origin (COO)?
- Manufacturing origins for this legacy component platform vary by production batch (frequently Sweden or authorized global GE facilities); inspect the exterior shipping box label for exact traceability data.
- What packaging precautions are mandatory for secure freight transport?
- Ship the unit inside a double-walled corrugated carton using high-density anti-static foam inserts to absorb mechanical drop shocks and protect optical ports from transit damage.
- Ship the unit inside a double-walled corrugated carton using high-density anti-static foam inserts to absorb mechanical drop shocks and protect optical ports from transit damage.
