The Woodward DECS-100-B15, also cataloged as the DECS-100-B15 Automatic Voltage Regulator, operates as a dedicated hardware component for field excitation and voltage regulation within synchronous generator control systems. The microprocessor-based controller continuously samples generator terminal voltage and current inputs, providing continuous Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) field output up to 63 Vdc at 7 Adc to maintain targeted terminal parameters under fluctuating bus loads.

Hardware Specifications

Backplane Bus Communication Velocity & Firmware Compatibility

The Woodward DECS-100-B15 utilizes onboard digital processing loops to calculate real-time excitation commands while maintaining deterministic communications over dedicated serial parameters. Serial interface compatibility allows parameter adjustments and diagnostic monitoring via BESTCOMS configuration software, maintaining firmware flash compatibility across varied generator control architectures and protection integration schemes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What control operating modes are available on the Woodward DECS-100-B15 unit?

A: The digital controller supports four software-selectable operating modes: Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), Field Current Regulation (FCR), Power Factor (PF) control, and Reactive Power (VAR) regulation.

Q: What are the output voltage and current drive limits of the PWM power stage?

A: The internal pulse-width modulated power output bridge delivers up to 63 Vdc at a continuous current rating of 7 Adc to the generator exciter field windings.

Q: What internal generator protection functions are incorporated into the device hardware?

A: The module incorporates built-in diagnostic and protective logic including overexcitation limiting, underexcitation limiting, loss of sensing voltage detection, and generator overvoltage tripping.

Field Installation Guidelines

• Verify that all generator source power is locked out and residual field voltage is fully discharged prior to making wiring connections.
• Route voltage sensing and current transformer (CT) secondary leads using twisted shielded pair wiring separated from high-current power cables.
• Terminate all cable shielding at a single chassis ground point to avoid circulating ground loops within the control enclosure.
• Ensure minimum 5-turn thread engagement when securing mounting screws to the backplate or enclosure rack.
• Calibrate voltage sensing inputs and verify phase rotation sequence before energizing the field excitation output circuits.