Product Overview

The TRICONEX 3806E is a TMR Analog Output Module designed for Tricon safety instrumented systems. It provides analog current outputs for control applications where reliable signal generation and fault-tolerant operation are required.

Unlike a standard analog input card, the 3806E is specifically an analog output module. Its eight output points are divided between six 4–20 mA channels and two high-current 20–320 mA channels. The module uses a 12-bit digital-to-analog conversion architecture and commoned, DC-coupled returns.

This makes the 3806E useful for maintaining existing Tricon installations where an original output module is needed as a replacement or spare.

Technical Specifications

The published Tricon documentation specifies less than 0.25% full-scale accuracy for the normal operating ranges under the stated temperature conditions.

Output Configuration

The channel arrangement is important when replacing this module:

• Points 2–4 and 6–8: 4–20 mA outputs
• Points 1 and 5: 20–320 mA outputs
• 4–20 mA channels support up to 6% over-range.
• 20–320 mA channels also support approximately 6% over-range.
• Output returns are commoned and DC-coupled.

The two 20–320 mA channels are intended for applications requiring substantially higher loop current than a conventional 4–20 mA process signal.

Main Functions

The 3806E is used to generate analog control signals from a Tricon safety controller to connected field devices.

Typical functions include:

• Analog control signal generation
• 4–20 mA process output
• High-current 20–320 mA output
• Fault-tolerant output operation through TMR architecture
• Interface to final control elements and other analog devices
• Replacement of existing 3806E modules in compatible Tricon systems

The module is listed in Tricon system documentation as a TMR analog output module, alongside other Tricon analog output models such as 3805E/3805H and 3807.

Typical Applications

The 3806E can be found in industrial safety and process-control environments such as:

• Oil and gas processing
• Petrochemical plants
• Chemical processing
• Power generation
• Refining
• Industrial process control
• Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)
• Existing Tricon installations requiring replacement output hardware

It is particularly relevant where the installed control system already uses the Tricon 3806E architecture and maintaining the existing configuration is preferable to changing the I/O design.

Installation & Configuration

Before installation, verify the exact Tricon system version and existing I/O configuration.

Recommended procedure:

1. Confirm the module model and hardware identification.
2. Compare the replacement module with the existing 3806E.
3. Record the existing wiring and terminal assignments.
4. Verify the required external loop power.
5. Check the load requirements for each connected output.
6. Confirm that the field device is connected to the correct output type.
7. Install the module according to the Tricon chassis and I/O documentation.
8. Check PASS, FAULT, ACTIVE, LOAD, PWR1 and PWR2 indications after installation.
9. Verify each analog output with appropriate test equipment.
10. Complete a controlled functional test before returning the safety system to service.

Do not interchange the 4–20 mA and 20–320 mA channels simply because both are analog current outputs. Their load requirements are different.

Inspection & Maintenance

For a remanufactured spare, inspection should include:

• PCB and component condition
• Connector and terminal condition
• Module label and serial-number verification
• LED/status indicator operation
• Power-up diagnostic check
• 4–20 mA output test
• 20–320 mA output test
• Load testing
• Communication and chassis diagnostic verification
• Extended powered operation where practical

For safety-system hardware, the replacement should be validated against the site’s approved maintenance and proof-test procedures before being placed into an operating safety loop.

Condition

Remanufactured – Good Condition

The referenced eBay listing identifies the unit as Remanufactured and describes it as being in Good Condition.

The actual hardware should be checked for the model number, serial number, label condition, connectors, and any applicable revision information before purchase or installation.

Identification Note

The original eBay title describes the product as:

“3806E DCS IO Card Triconex, Analog, 4-20MA, 20-320MA”

For technical accuracy, the product should be listed as an Analog Output Module, not an Analog Input Card. The 3806E documentation specifically identifies it as a TMR Analog Output Module with six 4–20 mA outputs and two 20–320 mA outputs.

Recommended eBay Title

TRICONEX 3806E | TMR Analog Output Module | 6CH 4-20mA + 2CH 20-320mA