
MEM-32/A and MEM-32/W 32-Channel Relay Boards for
the Metrabus
Description
Each MEM-32/W and MEM-32/A relay board converts 32 digital outputs from the MetraBus system to SPST relay contact
closures. The MEM-32/W has mercury-wetted contacts rated at 2A. The MEM-32/A has dry contacts rated at 0.5A.
One MetraBus controller can control up to sixteen MEM-32/A or MEM-32/W boards via a single ribbon cable, each
connected by a 50-pin connector.
For more information about the MetraBus system in general and the MEM-32/A and MEM-32W boards specifically, refer to
your MetraBus User’s Guide. The MetraBus User’s Guide also includes programming help for the MEM-32/A and MEM32/W.
Specifications
Relays
MEM-32/A MEM-32/W
Number of relays: 32 32
Relay type: Form A (SPST) Form A (SPST)
Contact: Dry contact Mercury wetted
Position sensitivity: May be mounted in any position Must be mounted within +30° of vertical
Contact rating: 10W at 0.5A or 150VDC/peak VAC (resistive),
Installation Category I
Contact resistance: 100mΩ maximum initial 50mΩ maximum initial
Contact life: 107 operations at rated load 107 operations at rated load
Operate time: 2 s maximum 2ms maximum
50W at 2A or 150VDC/peak VAC (resistive),
Installation Category I
Environmental
Operating temperature range: 0 to 70 °C
Storage temperature range: -40 to +100 °C
Humidity: 0 to 90% non-condensing
Power and Signal Requirements
+5V power: 510mA max. (all relays energized)
+15V power: Not used
Physical
Dimensions: 16in L x 4.75in W (40.6cm L x 12.1cm W)
Safety precautions
The following safety precautions should be observed before using this product and any associated instrumentation. This
product may be used with hazardous voltages.
This product is intended for use by qualified personnel who recognize shock hazards and are familiar with the safety
precautions required to avoid possible injury. Read the operating information carefully before using the product.
PA-611 Rev. A / 9-98

General safety definitions
The types of product users are:
Responsible body is the individual or group responsible for the use and maintenance of equipment, and for ensuring that
operators are adequately trained.
Operators use the product for its intended function. They must be trained in electrical safety procedures and proper use of
the instrument. They must be protected from electric shock and contact with hazardous live circuits.
Maintenance personnel perform routine procedures on the product to keep it operating, for example, setting the line
voltage or replacing consumable materials. Maintenance procedures are described in the manual. The procedures explicitly
state if the operator may perform them. Otherwise, they should be performed only by service personnel.
Service personnel are trained to work on live circuits, and perform safe installations and repairs of products. Only properly
trained service personnel may perform installation and service procedures.
If a grounding screw is present, connect it to safety earth ground using the wire recommended in the user
documentation.
The symbol on an instrument indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the manual.
The WARNING heading in a manual explains dangers that might result in personal injury or death. Always read the
associated information very carefully before performing the indicated procedure.
The CAUTION heading in a manual explains hazards that could damage the instrument. Such damage may invalidate the
warranty.
Installation safety
As described in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard IEC 664, the signal terminals are
Installation Category I and must not be connected to mains, except as noted in the specifications.
When connecting to sources, install protective devices to limit current and voltage to the card.
Operators and maintainers of this product must be protected from electric shock at all times. The responsible body must
ensure that users are prevented access and/or insulated from every connection point. In some cases, connections must be
exposed to potential human contact. Product users in these circumstances must be trained to protect themselves from the
risk of electric shock. If the circuit is capable of operating at or above 1000 volts, no conductive part of the circuit may be
exposed.
Operation safety
Exercise extreme caution when a shock hazard is present. Lethal voltage may be present on cable connector jacks or test
fixtures. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) states that a shock hazard exists when voltage levels greater
than 30V RMS, 42.4V peak, or 60VDC are present. A good safety practice is to expect that hazardous voltage is present
in any unknown circuit before measuring.
For maximum safety, do not touch the product, test cables, or any other instruments while power is applied to the circuit
under test. ALWAYS remove power from the entire test system and discharge any capacitors before: connecting or
disconnecting cables or jumpers, installing or removing switching cards, or making internal changes, such as installing or
removing jumpers.
Do not touch any object that could provide a current path to the common side of the circuit under test or power line (earth)
ground. Always make measurements with dry hands while standing on a dry, insulated surface capable of withstanding the
voltage being measured.
Do not exceed the maximum signal levels of the instruments and accessories, as defined in the specifications and operating
information, and as shown on the instrument or test fixture panels, or switching card.
If you are using a test fixture, keep the lid closed while power is applied to the device under test. Safe operation requires
the use of a lid interlock.
Instrumentation and accessories shall not be connected to humans.
2