ComAp InteliGen NTC BaseBox Paralleling Controller

A paralleling controller for up to 32 gen-sets with Ethernet and USB

The ComAp InteliGen NTC BaseBox (order code IG-NTC-BB) is the extended-communication version of the InteliGen NT BaseBox family. ComAp describes it as a comprehensive paralleling gen-set controller for parallel operation of up to 32 gen-sets, with high-level control for complex systems and a role as a CHP and gas engine controller.

Compared with the plain NT BaseBox, the NTC adds an Ethernet port (LAN or internet, Modbus TCP and AirGate), an isolated USB port, an isolated RS485 and more I/O: 16 binary inputs, 16 binary outputs and 4 analog inputs. The listed features include full Modbus slave support, GPS and AirGate support, active e-mail and SMS messaging, an internal PLC, timers and force values, and compatibility with InteliVision displays. The datasheet was issued 5/4/2022 for hardware 2.0 and software 3.3.0.

Technical specifications

Extensions and related modules

Extension modules named in the datasheet are Inteli IO8/8, AIN8, AIN8TC, AIO9/1, IS-AIN8, IGS-PTM, IGL-RA15, I-AOUT8, the IB-NT communication module with cellular or Ethernet connection and the I-LB+ PC link. Related displays and accessories include InteliVision 5, InteliVision 8, InteliVision 12Touch, InteliVision 18Touch and the ECON-4 digital speed governor. Mounting is on DIN rail or door-mounted with InteliVision 5 or 8.

What to confirm before ordering

State whether Ethernet remote monitoring and Modbus TCP are needed, as these separate the NTC from the NT BaseBox, and give the engine ECU type and governor interface. Other ComAp controllers are listed under Diesel Generator Spare Parts.

How the IG-NTC-BB paralleling controller works

The IG-NTC-BB is built around the InteliGen NT BaseBox platform, which ComAp positions for gen-sets that run in parallel with each other and with the mains. The controller measures three-phase generator voltage and current together with mains or bus voltage, so it can decide when a gen-set is ready to close onto the bus and how load should be shared between units. Up to 32 gen-sets can be linked through the CAN2 intercontroller line, which is why the datasheet describes it as a controller for complex systems rather than a single-set unit.

The NTC version adds communication rather than a different control concept. The Ethernet port carries Modbus TCP and AirGate connections over a LAN or the internet, the isolated USB port supports local connection to a PC, and the isolated RS485 and RS232 ports remain available for building-management or SCADA links. CAN1 is reserved for external modules, so Inteli I/O extension units can be added without taking over the intercontroller line. An internal PLC, timers and force values allow site logic to be added inside the controller instead of in separate relays.

Applications for the IG-NTC-BB

The datasheet describes the controller as suited to parallel operation and to high-level control of complex systems, and also names a role as a CHP and gas engine controller. Typical site situations that match this description include:

• Multi-engine power stations where several gen-sets share a common bus and load.
• Combined heat and power installations that use gas engines.
• Sites that need remote monitoring over Ethernet, Modbus TCP or AirGate instead of a modem or a serial line only.
• Plants that want active e-mail or SMS messages sent from the controller when an alarm occurs.
• Upgrades where an existing InteliGen NT BaseBox fleet is being extended and the same family of displays and modules should be reused.

Selecting the IG-NTC-BB: a practical checklist

• Communication need: choose the NTC when Ethernet, Modbus TCP, AirGate or the USB port is required, because the plain NT BaseBox does not include them.
• Supply: the controller accepts 8 to 36 V DC and rides through supply dips of up to 20 ms, so confirm the battery system and any starter-motor voltage drop on site.
• Measuring ranges: voltage ranges are 110 V and 277 V phase-neutral and current inputs are 1 A or 5 A, so confirm voltage transformers and current transformers match.
• I/O count: 16 binary inputs, 16 binary outputs and 4 analog inputs are built in; plan an extension module if the engine needs more.
• Display: InteliVision 5, 8, 12Touch or 18Touch can be paired with the unit, and the controller can be door-mounted with InteliVision 5 or 8.
• Speed governor interface: the ECON-4 digital speed governor is listed as an accessory; state the engine ECU or governor type so the interface can be checked.

Installation and commissioning notes for the IG-NTC-BB

The binary inputs and outputs are non-isolated, and each output group is rated 2 A in total with 0.5 A per output, so relay interposing should be planned where the connected load is higher. Speed pick-up accepts 2 Vpk-pk to 50 Veff between 4 Hz and 15 kHz, which should be checked against the magnetic pick-up or alternator signal used for engine speed. The operating range is -40 to +70 C, with storage from -40 to +80 C, and the unit dissipates about 16 W of heat, which matters when it is mounted inside a closed panel.

During commissioning it is sensible to record the hardware and software version of every controller on the bus. The datasheet applies to hardware 2.0 and software 3.3.0, and matching versions across the fleet avoids surprises in intercontroller behaviour. Standards listed on the datasheet are CE, with environmental testing to EN 60068 parts 2-6, 2-27, 2-30 and 2-64 and safety to EN 61010-1.

Requesting a quotation for the ComAp IG-NTC-BB

To prepare a quotation for the IG-NTC-BB, send the order code, quantity, the engine and governor type, the number of gen-sets that will share the bus and the communication interfaces needed. Mention extension modules, displays or accessories from the list above in the same request so they can be quoted together. Seven Star LLC serves industrial customers in Oman and the GCC and replies with a quotation based on the information provided.

Documents and quotation

The datasheet from ComAp is attached. Seven Star LLC supplies ComAp products on request and quotes by order code; confirm firmware and hardware versions against the installed fleet when matching existing gen-sets.