Siemens OpenAir GCA Series Owner's manual

OpenAir™
Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
EA GCA-1
March 17, 2006
GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in
Electronic Damper Actuators
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Description
The OpenAir 24 Vac/dc spring return 142 lb-in electronic actuator is designed for digital
or analog control of building HVAC dampers.
Features •Brushless DC motor technology with stall protection
•Bi-directional fail-safe spring return
•Patented self-centering shaft coupling
•Manual override
•142 lb-in (16 Nm) torque
•5° preload as shipped from factory
•Offset and span adjustment models available
•Models with independently adjustable dual auxiliary switches available
•UL and cUL listed
Application These actuators are designed for use in constant or variable air volume installations for
the control of return air, mixed air, exhaust, and face and bypass dampers requiring up
to 142 lb-in (16 Nm) torque. They are designed for applications that require the damper
to return to a fail-safe position when there is a power failure.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 2 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Product Numbers
Table 1.
Operating
Voltage
Control Cables Built-in Control
Options
Product
Number
24 Vac ± 20% 24 Vdc ±10% 120 Vac ± 10% 0 to 10 Vdc 2 to 10 Vdc or 0 to 10 Vdc 3-position 2-position Standard Plenum Position Feedback Dual Auxiliary Switches Signal Inversion Offset 0 to 5 Vdc Span 2 to 30 Vdc
GCA121.1U ●●●●
GCA121.1P ●●●●
GCA126.1U ●●●●●
GCA126.1P ●●●●●
GCA221.1U ●●●
GCA226.1U ●●●●
GCA131.1U ●●●●
GCA131.1P ●●●●
GCA132.1U ●●●●●
GCA132.1P ●●●●●
GCA136.1U ●●●●●
GCA136.1P ●●●●●
GCA151.1U ●●●●●●
GCA151.1P ●●●●●●
GCA156.1U ●●●●●●●
GCA156.1P ●●●●●●●
GCA161.1U ●●●●●
GCA161.1P ●●●●●
GCA163.1U ●●●●●●
GCA163.1P ●●●●●●
GCA164.1U ●●●●●●●
GCA164.1P ●●●●●●●
GCA166.1U ●●●●●●
GCA166.1P ●●●●●●
Warning/Caution Notations
WARNING: Personal injury/loss of life may occur if you do not perform a
procedure as specified.
CAUTION: Equipment damage may occur if you do not follow a
procedure as specified.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Specifications
Ambient conditions Ambient temperature
operation -25°F to 130°F (-32°C to 55°C)
storage and transport -40°F to 158°F (-40°C to 70°C)
Ambient humidity (non-condensing) 95% rh
Agency certification UL listed to UL60730
(to replace UL873)
cUL certified to Canadian Standard
C22.2 No. 24-93
Power
Supply GCA16x GCA15x GCA13x GCA12x GCA22x
Operating
Voltage
(G-G0)
24 Vac ± 20%
24 Vdc ± 10%
24 Vac ± 20%
24 Vdc ± 10%
24 Vac± 20%
24 Vdc ± 10%
24 Vac ± 20%
24 Vdc ± 10%
120 Vac ± 10%
—
Frequency 50/60 Hz 50/60 Hz 50/60 Hz 50/60 Hz 50/60 Hz
Power
Consumption
running 9 VA/7W 9 VA/7W 8 VA/6W 8 VA/6W 9 VA
holding 5 VA/7W 5 VA/4W 5 VA/4W 3 VA/3W 9 VA
GCA16x GCA15x GCA13x GCA12x GCA22x
Input Signal
(Y–G0)
voltage input
0 to 10 Vdc
(max. 35 Vdc)
0 to 10 Vdc or
2 to 10 Vdc
(max. 35 Vdc)
3-Position 2-Position 2-Position
Control
Signal
input
resistance
>100K ohms >100K ohms — — —
GCA16x GCA15x GCA13x GCA12X GCA22x
Position output
signal (U-G0)
voltage output
0 to 10 Vdc 0 to 10 Vdc 0 to 1000 ohms ,
<10 Ma
(GCA 132x only)
Load <1W
— —
Feedback
Signal
maximum
output current
±1 mA +1 mA, -.5 mA — — —
Function Running/spring return torque
Operating with 24 Vac 142 lb-in (16 Nm)
Maximum torque <360 lb-in (40 Nm)
Runtime for 90°
operating with motor 90 seconds
closing (on power loss) with spring return 15 seconds typical
Equipment rating Class 2, in accordance with UL/CSA
Mounting Nominal angle of rotation 90°
Maximum angular rotation 95°
Shaft size 3/8-inch to 1-inch (8 mm to 25.6 mm) dia.
1/4-inch to 5/8-inch (6 to 18 mm) square
Minimum shaft length 3/4-inch (20 mm)

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 4 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Specifications,
continued
Auxiliary features
Control signal adjustment
Offset (start point) Between 0 Vdc to 5 Vdc
Factory setting 0 Vdc
Span Between 2 Vdc to 30 Vdc
Dual auxiliary switches
AC rating (Standard cable) 24 Vac to 250 Vac
AC 6A resistive
AC 2A FLA, 12LRA
AC rating (Plenum cable) 24 Vac
AC 4A resistive
AC 2A, FLA, 12 LRA
DC rating (Standard/Plenum cable) 12 Vdc to 30 Vdc
DC 2A
Switch Range
Switch A 0 to 90° with 5° intervals
Recommended range usage 0 to 45°
Factory setting 5°
Switch B 0 to 90° with 5° intervals
Recommended range usage 45° to 90°
Factory setting 85°
Switching hysteresis 2°
WARNING:
Apply only AC-line voltage from the same phase or only UL-Class 2 voltage to the
switching outputs of both auxiliary switches A and B. Mixed operation is not
permissible.
NOTE: With plenum cables, only UL-Class 2 voltage is permitted.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Specifications,
continued
Housing
Enclosure NEMA 2 in vertical to horizontal 90°
See
Figure 17.
NEMA 3R rated when installed with
ASK75.1U Weather Shield in the
vertical position. See
Figure 18.
See Accessories, Figure 9.
Material Die cast aluminum alloy
Gear lubrication Silicone-free
Miscellaneous Pre-cabled connection 18 AWG
Cable length 3 feet (0.9 m)
Noise level <45 dBA (running)
Life cycle Designed for over 60,000 full strokes
and a minimum of 1.5 million
repositions at rated torque and
temperature.
Dimensions See
Figure 29.
Weight 4.85 lb (2.2 kg)
Actuator
Components
EA0377R1
11
12
EA1106R2
90
A
B
Offset, Uo
2
4
01
3
5
Span, DU
30
2
15
10
5
20
25
Gear Train
Lockpin
10
9
8
7
6
14
5
4
1
13
3
2
Manual
Override
2-10
TM
M
0-10 SM 0 S
Figure 1. Modulating GCA Actuator.
NOTE: Not all features are on all models.
See Table 1 for a listing of features per
model.
Legend
1. Positioning scale for angle of
rotation
2. Manual override wrench
opening and direction of
rotation arrow
3. DIP switches
4. Span adjustment
5. Offset (start point) adjustment
6. Gear train lock pin
7. Auxiliary switch B
8. Auxiliary switch A
9. Position indicator
10. Self-centering shaft adapter
11. Shaft adapter locking clip
12. Position indicator adapter
13. Mounting bracket
14. Connection cables

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 6 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Accessories NOTE: The control signal adjustment cannot be added in the field. Order the product number that
includes the option(s).
EA0477R2
(4 each)
Figure 2. Floor Mount Kit.
ASK71.1U: Allows foot mounting of OpenAir actuators.
Should be used for in-the-air stream applications, and
generally, anywhere a foot-mounted actuator can be
mounted. Kit contains:
•Crank arm for changing angular rotation into a linear
stroke.
•Support bearing ring to minimize side loading on the
actuator’s output bearing.
•Mounting bracket.
•Required mounting fasteners.
EA0476R2
Figure 3. Frame Mount Kit.
ASK71.2U: Allows mounting OpenAir actuators directly
to damper frame. Should be used with louvers and vents
and in applications where floor mount kit is not possible.
Kit contains:
•Crank arm for changing angular rotation into a linear
stroke.
•Support bearing ring to minimize side loading on the
actuator’s output bearing.
•Mounting bracket.
•Required mounting fasteners.
EA0495R1
Figure 4. Crank Arm Kit.
ASK71.3: Allows direct-coupled actuator to provide an
auxiliary linear drive. Crank arm kit can be used to
simultaneously drive a set of opposing or adjacent
dampers with single actuator. Kit includes:
•Crank arm to attach to the splined hub of the shaft
adapter.
•Other required mounting fasteners.
EA0494R1
Figure 5. Crank Arm Kit with
Mounting Bracket.
ASK71.4: Allows economical mounting of OpenAir
actuator to a variety of surfaces. Kit should be used in
applications where the actuator can be rigid-surface
mounted and linear stroke output is required. Kit
includes:
•Crank arm to attach to the splined hub of the shaft
adapter.
•Mounting bracket.
•Other required mounting fasteners.
EA0496R1
Figure 6. Tandem Mount Bracket.
ASK73.1: Bracket provides an extended anti-rotation pin
allowing two OpenAir actuators to directly drive a single
damper shaft.
EA0740R1
Figure 7. Tandem Mount Bracket.
ASK73.2U: Bracket provides an extended anti-rotation
pin allowing two OpenAir modulating actuator to directly
drive a single damper shaft. (For GCA16x Series only.)

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 7
Accessories,
Continued
EA0497R1
Figure 8. Special Shaft Adapter.
ASK74.1U: Shaft adapter will attach to a 1.05-inch
(26.6 mm) diameter shaft; the standard self-centering
adapter will accept up to a one-inch (25.4 mm)
diameter shaft.
•Adapter can be used for coupling to slightly
oversized one-inch (25.4 mm) jackshafts.
•Shaft adapter is 13/16-inches (20 mm) shorter than
the height of the self-centering shaft adapter.
EA0845R1
(14)
Figure 9. Weather Shield.
ASK75.1U: GCA actuators are UL listed to meet
NEMA 3R requirements (a degree of protection
against rain, sleet, and damage from external ice
formation) when installed with ASK75.1U Weather
Shield and outdoor-rated conduit fittings in the vertical
position.
For dimensions, see Figure 28.
Heating
Element
Thermostat
EA0992R1
Figure 10. Heater/Weather Shield
Assembly.
985-106: Provides protection for GIB, GBB and GCA
OpenAir actuators down to temperatures of -58°F
(-50°C). Assembly includes:
•Weather Shield
•Heater Kit
EA1089R1
Figure 11.
499 Ohm Resistor Assembly Kit.
985-124: Used for converting a 4 to 20 mA controller
output signal into a 2 to 10 Vdc actuator signal.
Service Parts
EA0499R1
EA0498R1
EA0500R1
EA1059R1
985-003
Position indicators
(10/pkg)
985-004
Standard shaft adapter 985-006 Anti-rotation (mounting)
bracket
985-008
Conduit adapter, 1/2-inch (12 mm)
for 1/2-inch NPT connector.
Figure 12. Orderable Service Parts.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 8 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Operation
GCA12x and GCA22x: 2-Position Control
When power is applied, the actuator coupling moves toward the open position 90°.
GCA13x: 3-Position Control
A floating control signal controls the damper actuator. The actuator's angle of rotation is
proportional to the length of time the signal is applied. A 24 Vac/dc control signal to Y1
causes the actuator coupling to rotate clockwise. A 24 Vac/dc control signal to Y2 causes
the actuator coupling to rotate counterclockwise.
With no control voltage, the damper actuator holds its position.
GCA16x and GCA15x: Modulating Control
A continuous 0 to 10 Vdc or 2 to 10 Vdc signal from a controller to wire Y operates the
damper actuator. The angle of rotation is proportional (or inverse proportional) to the
control signal. A 0 to 10 Vdc, or 2 to 10 Vdc position feedback output signal is available
between wires U and G0 (system neutral) to monitor the position of the damper actuator.
In the event of a power failure or when the operating voltage is shut off, all actuator models
will return to the 0 position.
In the event of a blockage in a damper, actuators are overload protected over the full range
to prevent damage to the actuators.
Life expectancy An improperly tuned loop will cause excessive repositioning that will shorten the life of the
actuator.
Implementation of
DIP Switch Features
(GCA15x Only)
Counter Clockwise
Self-adapt feature
2 to 10 Vdc
Tandem Mount
Master
Clockwise
Self-Adapt Off
0 to 10 Vdc
Single Mount
Slave
Figure 13. GCA15x Series.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 9
Control Signal
Adjustment GCA 163 and GCA164
The offset (start point) and span of the control signal can be adjusted. The offset, Uo,
can be adjusted between 0 to 5 Vdc. The span, ΔU, can be adjusted between
2 to 30 Vdc.
100
0
U
O
ΔU (max. 30 V) Y
U
(v)
Y
S
(%)
EA0411R1
2 5 10 35
2)1) 3)
Ys Mechanical positioning range
(100% = angle of rotation 90°)
Yu Control signal
Uo Offset (start point)
ΔU Span
Uo = 0V, ΔU = 2V The minimum working
range for Ys = 100%
1. Uo = 5V, ΔU = 30V The maximum working
range for Ys = 100%
2. Uo = 0V, ΔU ≈10V Factory setting
Offset, Uo
2
4
01
3
5
Span, U
30
2
15
10
5
20
25
Control
Signals
Uo U
EA0287R1
Setting for
10V span
0V offset
Figure 14. The Minimum and Maximum Control Signal Adjustment.
Example:
Open the actuator from 0% to 50% (45°) using a control signal of
Umin = 2V to Umax = 10V.
Calculating the value of ΔU:
V16
50
2)(10x100
%inrotationofangleWorking
min)Umax(U%][100
U=
−
=
−
=Δ
Settings Uo = 2Y; ΔU = 16V
Umin = minimum control signal
Umax = maximum control signal
100
0
ΔU (16 V)
Y
U
(v)
Y
S
(%)
21810
Umin Umax
50
Uo
EA0412R1
Figure 15. Example.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 10 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Dual Auxiliary Switch GCAxx4, GCAxx6
AB
-5°0°10°20°30°70°80°90°
0°10°20°30°70°80°90°
EA0413R2
Actuator rotary range with the shaft
adapter mounted at position "0".
Setting range for switches A and B
Setting interval: 5°
Switching hysteresis: 2°
To change the settings of A and B:
1. Make sure the actuator is in the "0", fail-
safe position. The scale is valid only in
the "0" position.
2. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to turn the
switch adjustment dials to the desired
setting at which a signal is to be given.
Factory setting:
Switch A 5°
Switch B 85°
80
70
60
50
B90
AUX
SWITCH
ADJ 20
30
40
10
20
40
A
70
EA0277R3
Manual
Override
Figure 16. Dual Auxiliary Switch Dials.
NOTE: For GCA15x actuators with signal inversion switch set to Inverse Acting, 90°
corresponds to either a 0 to 10 Vdc or a 2 to 10 Vdc. Vdc input signal depends
on the input signal selection.
Sizing The type of actuator required depends on several factors.
1. Obtain damper torque ratings (ft-lb/ft2or Nm/m2) from the damper manufacturer.
2. Determine the area of the damper.
3. Calculate the total torque required to move the damper:
Total Torque = SF
AreaDamperRatingTorque
1
×
1 Safety Factor: When calculating the total torque required, a safety factor should be included
for unaccountable variables such as slight misalignments, aging of the damper, etc. A
suggested safety factor is 0.80.
4. Select the actuator type using Table 2.
NOTE: Mechanically coupled actuators must all be of the exact same type except for the dual
auxiliary switches and feedback potentiometer options. Make sure to use the correct
tandem-mounting bracket. See Table 2.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 11
Table 2.
Sizing
Total Torque Actuator
<62 lb-in (7 Nm) GMA
>62 lb-in <142 lb-in
(>7 Nm <16 Nm) GCA
>142 lb-in <284 lb-in
(>16 Nm <32 Nm)
ASK73.2U*: Tandem mounting bracket with any
combination of GCA16x.
ASK73.1U*: Tandem mounting bracket for all
other GCAx actuators.
NOTE: Used for tandem applications up to four actuators.*
Mounting and Installation
<
90
˚
<
90
˚
90
˚
NEMA 2
EA1104R1
Figure 17.
Acceptable NEMA 2-Positions.
EA1105R1
90
˚
Figure 18.
Only Acceptable Position for NEMA Type 3R Rating Using
ASK75.1U Weather Shield.
The GCA actuator is UL listed to meet NEMA Type 3R requirements (a
degree of protection against rain, sleet, and damage from external ice
formation) when installed with the Weather Shield (product number
ASK75.1U) and outdoor-rated conduit fittings. Actuator must be in the
vertical position.
•The shaft adapter and the position indicator can be mounted on either side of the actuator. The actuator
mounting orientation and shaft length determine how they will be mounted on the actuator.
•The minimum damper drive shaft length is 3/4-inch (20 mm).
•See Specifications for the minimum and maximum damper shaft dimensions.
•The actuator is shipped from the factory with a 5° preload enabling tight close off of the damper in power-fail-
close applications.
•A mounting bracket is included with the actuator.
•The shaft adapter and mounting parts are shipped in a separate container with the actuator.
•See the detailed mounting instructions included with each actuator.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 12 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Flip the actuator to select either clockwise or counterclockwise fail-safe rotation of the damper shaft. Follow steps 1, 2,
and 3 of Table 3 to determine the correct actuator mounting orientation.
Table 3. Actuator Mounting Orientation and Damper Control.
Damper
Type
Power Fail
Spring Return
Position
Actuator
Mounting
Orientation
3
Close Open Close Open
2
1
90 90
90
Determining the Actuator
Mounting Orientation
90
EA1037R2
Manual
Override Manual Override
Manual
Override Manual Override
Close Open Close Open
Close Open CloseOpen
GCA15x
Using 2 to 10
GCA15x or
GCA16x
Using 0 to 10
GCA15x
Using 2 to 10
GCA15x or
GCA16x
Using 0 to 10
Modulating Control
Y = 10V
Y = 10V
Y = 2V
Y = 2V
Y = 10V
(or Y = Uo + ΔU)
Y = 0V
(or Y = Uo)
EA1040R2
Y2
Close Open Close Open
Close Open CloseOpen
GCA13x
3-Position
Y1
Y2
Y1
EA1039R1
Close Open CloseOpen
GCA12x
GCA22x
2-Position
Power On
EA1038R1

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 13
Manual override
EA0374R3
GEAR TRAIN
LOCK PIN
Manual
Override
3 mm
x 7-3/4 = 90˚
90˚
GEAR TRAIN
LOCK PIN
3
HOLD
5
4
1
2
h
GEAR TRAIN
LOCK PIN
90˚
90˚
8
7
6
Manual
Override
Manual
Override
Rotating Locking in place Releasing
when power is absent
Figure 19. Manual Override.
Always turn the key in the direction of the arrow.
CAUTION:
When engaging the gear train lock pin, be careful to turn only about five
degrees until you hear a click or meet slight resistance. Turning too far will
strip the lock pin.
To release manual override, either restore power and send a control signal; or when
power is absent, insert the 3 mm hex key in the override opening, turn the key in the
direction of the arrow and remove the key.
Mechanical
Range
Adjustment
The angular rotation is adjustable between 0 and 90° at five-degree intervals. To limit the
range of shaft movement, remove the locking clip and self-adjusting shaft adapter.
Rotate the damper blade shaft to its failed position. Rotate the shaft coupling to the
desired position. Insert the shaft adapter into the actuator and fasten it with the locking
clip. See Figure 20.
EA0278R2
MANUAL
OVERRIDE
1
3
2
EA0279R1
5
4
MANUAL
OVERRIDE
Figure 20. Mechanical Range Adjustment.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 14 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Wiring All wiring must conform to NEC and local codes and regulations.
Use earth ground isolating step-down Class 2 transformers. Do not use
autotransformers.
The maximum rating for a Class 2 step-down transformer is 100 VA. Determine
the supply transformer rating by summing the VA ratings of all actuators and
other components used. It is recommended that one transformer power not
more than nine actuators (or 80% of its VA).
WARNING:
Mixed switch operation is not permitted to the switching outputs of
both auxiliary switches (A and B).
Either AC line voltage from the same phase must be applied to all
six outputs of the dual auxiliary switches, or UL-Class 2 voltage
must be applied to all six outputs.
NOTE: With plenum cables, only UL-Class 2 voltage is
permitted.
GCA15x.1x
(0 to 10 Vdc or
2 to 10 Vdc)
for Tandem Application
(Master/Slave)
2-10
TM
M
0-10
SM
0
S
EA1216R1
Figure 21. Tandem Application DIP Switch Settings.
•After setting the 4th DIP switch for TM (tandem mount) on all actuators
used in the tandem application, one actuator must be identified as the
Master by selecting the "M" on the 5th DIP switch.
•The rest of the actuators used in the application must have the "S"
(slave) set on the 5th DIP switch.
•Connect all the 2 (black) Neutral wires and connect them to the power
supply.
•Connect all the 1 (red) Supply wires together and connect them to the
power supply.
•The Output Signal 9 (pink) wire, identified as the Master actuator,
needs to be connected to all the Control Signal Wires 8 (gray) of the
slave actuators used in the tandem application.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 15
Wire Designations
Each wire has the standard symbol printed on it. See Table 4.
SWITCH
ASWITCH B
DUAL AUXILIARY
SWITCHES
S1 S4
S2 S3 S5 S6
EA0867R1
N.C. N.O. N.C. N.O.
COMMON COMMON
M
NEUTRALSUPPLY
OUTPUTINPUT
1
89
2
Figure 22. GCA15x, GCA16x, Modulating Control.
M
SWITCH
ASWITCH B
DUAL AUXILIARY
SWITCHES
S1 S4
S2 S3 S5 S6
2
1
EA0864R1
NEUTRAL N.C. N.O. N.C. N.O.
COMMON
SUPPLY COMMON
Figure 23. GCA12x, 2-Position Control.
Figure 24. GCA13x, 3-Position Control.
M
SWITCH
ASWITCH B
DUAL AUXILIARY
SWITCHES
S1 S4
S2 S3 S5 S6
4
3
EA0955R1
NEUTRAL N.C. N.O. N.C. N.O.
COMMON
LINE COMMON
Figure 25. GCA22x, 2-Position Control.
EA1217R1
Supply (+)
81
Neutral (-)
9
8
2
2
2
1
8
1
Supply
Supply
Input 0 to 10 Vdc
or 2 to 10 Vdc
Neutral
Neutral
Controller
Actuator 1
Actuator 2
Actuator 3
Control Signal
0 to 10 Vdc
Supply
Input 0 to 10 Vdc
or 2 to 10 Vdc
Neutral
Output (Feedback)
Input 0 to 10 Vdc
or 2 to 10 Vdc
Neutral
Figure 26. GCA15x.1x for Tandem Application (Master/Slave).

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 16 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Table 4. Wire Designations.
Color
Standard
Symbol Function Terminal Designations Standard Plenum
1 Supply (SP) G Red Red
2 Neutral (SN) G0 Black Black
3 Line (120 Vac) L Black Black
4 Neutral (120 Vac) N While While
6 Control Signal clockwise (GCA13x) Y1 Violet Violet
7 Control Signal counterclockwise (GCA13x) Y2 Orange Orange
8 Input signal: 0 to 10 Vdc (GCA16x) or 2 to 10 Vdc (GCA15x) Y Gray Gray
9 Position output: 0 to 10 Vdc (GCA15x & GCA16x) U Pink Pink
S1 Switch A Common Q11 Gray/red Gray/red
S2 Switch A NC Q12 Gray/blue Gray/blue
S3 Switch A NO Q14 Gray/pink Gray/pink
S4 Switch B Common Q21 Black/red Black/red
S5 Switch B NC Q22 Black/blue Black/blue
S6 Switch B NO Q24 Black/pink Black/pink
P1 Feedback Potentiometer 0 to 100% P1 – P2 A White/red Black
P2 Feedback Potentiometer – Common B White/blue Black
P3 Feedback Potentiometer 100 to 0% P3 – P2 C White/pink Black

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electric Damper Actuators Technical Instructions
Document Number 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 17
Start-Up/
Commissioning
GCA12x (24 Vac)
GCA22x (120 Vac)
1. Check Operation:
a. Switch on 24 Vac/dc power (or 120 Vac GCA22x).
b. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate from 0 to 90°.
c. Switch off 24 Vac/dc power (or 120 Vac GCA22x).
The actuator shaft coupling will return to the "0" position.
2. Check Spring Return:
a. Switch on 120 Vac power.
b. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate halfway.
c. Switch off 120 Vac power.
The spring returns the actuator shaft coupling to the fail "0" position.
3. Check the Auxiliary Switch A:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S1 and S3 to the DMM.
The DMM should indicate an open circuit or no resistance.
c. Switch on 120 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches
the setting of switch A.
d. Connect wires S1 and S2 to the DMM.
The DMM should indicate open circuit or no resistance.
e. Switch off 120 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches
the setting of switch A.
4. Check the Auxiliary Switch B:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S4 and S6 to the DMM.
The DMM should indicate open circuit or no resistance.
c. Switch on 24 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches
the setting of switch B.
d. Connect wires S4 and S5 to the DMM.
The DMM should indicate open circuit or no resistance.
e. Switch off 24 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches
the setting of switch B.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuators
Document Number 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Page 18 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Start-Up/
Commissioning,
Continued —
GCA13x
1. Check Operation:
a. Connect wires 1 (red) and 2 (black) to 24 Vdc power supply.
b. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 6 (violet).
c. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate from 0 to 90°.
d. Stop applying a control signal to wire 6 (violet).
e. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 7 (orange).
f. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate from 90 to 0°.
2. Check Spring Return:
a. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 6 (violet).
b. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate half way.
c. Disconnect wire 1 (red).
d. The spring returns the actuator shaft coupling to the fail "0" position.
e. Connect wire 1 (red). The actuator shaft coupling begins to move.
3. Check Feedback:
a. Set the digital multimeter (DMM) dial to ohms.
b. Connect wires P1 and P2 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate a resistive value.
c. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 6 (violet).
The reading of the DMM should increase.
d. Stop applying a control signal to wire 6 (violet).
e. Connect wires P2 and P3 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate a resistive value.
f. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 7 (orange).
The reading of the DMM should increase.
4. Check the Auxiliary Switch A:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S1 and S3 to DMM. The DMM should indicate an open circuit or no resistance.
c. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 6 (violet).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches the setting of
switch A.
d. Stop applying a control signal to wire 6 (violet).
e. Connect wires S1 and S2 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate an open circuit or no
resistance.
f. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 7 (orange).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator actuator-shaft coupling reaches the
setting of switch A.
5. Check the Auxiliary Switch B:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S4 and S6 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate an open circuit or no
resistance.
c. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 6 (violet).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator actuator-shaft coupling reaches the
setting of switch B.
d. Stop applying a control signal to wire 6 (violet).
e. Connect wires S4 and S5 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate an open circuit or no
resistance.
f. Apply a control signal (24 Vac/dc) to wire 7 (orange).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator actuator-shaft coupling reaches the
setting of switch B.

OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuators Technical Instructions
Document Number 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 19
Start-Up/
Commissioning,
Continued—
GCA15x
GCA16x
1. Check Operation:
a. Connect wires 1 (red) and 2 (black) to the 24 Vac
or 24 Vdc power supply.
NOTE: With no input signal present, the GCA15x actuator with signal
inversion switch set to Inverse Acting will start driving towards 90°.
b. Use a Digital Multimeter (DDM) and set the dial to Vdc for the actuator input signal.
c. Connect wires 2 (black) and 8 (gray) to the DMM.
d. Apply to input signal wire 8 (gray):
Y = 10 Vdc or Y = Uo + ∆U (GCA16x)
Y = 10 Vdc (GCA15x in direct-acting mode)
Y = 2 Vdc (GCA15x in inverse-acting mode)
e. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate from 0 to 90.
f. Apply to input signal wire 8 (gray):
Y = 0 Vdc or Y = Uo (GCA16x)
Y = 2 Vdc (GCA15x in direct acting mode)
Y = 10 Vdc (GCA15x in inverse acting mode)
The shaft coupling returns to the "0" position.
2. Check Spring Return:
a. Set the DMM dial to Vdc.
b. Connect wires 2 (black) and 8 (gray) to the DMM.
c. Apply to input signal wire 8 (gray):
Y = 5 Vdc or Y =Uo + 1/2 ∆U (GCA16x)
Y = 6 Vdc (GCA15x)
d. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate halfway.
e. Disconnect wire 1 (red).
The spring returns the actuator shaft coupling to the fail "0" position.
f. Connect wire 1 (red) and the actuator moves.
3. Check Feedback:
a. Set the DMM dial to Vdc.
b. Attach wires 2 (black) and 9 (pink) to the DMM.
c. Apply the input signal as in Step 1d, to wire 8 (gray).
The reading at the DMM should increase (decrease for GCA15x in inverse acting mode).
d. Apply the input signal as in Step 1f, to wire 8 (gray).
The reading at the DMM should decrease (increase for GCA15x in inverse acting mode) and the
actuator shaft coupling returns to the fail "0" position.
4. Check the Auxiliary Switch A:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S1 and S3 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate open circuit or no resistance.
c. Apply the input signal as in Step 1d, to wire 8 (gray).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches the setting of
switch A.
d. Connect wires S1 and S2 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate open circuit or no resistance.
e. Apply the input signal as in Step 1f, to wire 8 (gray).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches the setting of
switch A.

Technical Instructions OpenAir GCA Series Spring Return 142 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuators
Document Number 155-173P25
March 17, 2006
Start-Up
Commissioning,
GCA15X
GCA16X
Continued—
5. Check the Auxiliary Switch B:
a. Set the DMM dial to ohms (resistance) or continuity check.
b. Connect wires S4 and S6 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate open circuit or no
resistance.
c. Apply the input signal as in Step 1d, to wire 8 (gray).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches the
setting of switch B.
d. Connect wires S4 and S5 to the DMM. The DMM should indicate open circuit or no
resistance.
e. Apply the input signal as in Step 1f, to wire 8 (gray).
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling reaches the
setting of switch B.
Special
Application Modulating 4 to 20 mA control with GCA15x
and an external 499-ohm resistor (985-124,
See Accessories).
NOTE: 985-124 is provided with the GCA15x
actuator.
EA1090R1
1
2
Supply (+)
Neutral (-)
24 Vac/dc
Controller
Neutral
Control
Signal
Supply
8
Actuator
499Ω
Resistor
Assembly
from Kit
985-124
Neutral
Supply
Input
2 to 10V
4 to 20 mA
Figure 27.
Wiring Diagram for Converting
4 to 20 mA into 2 to 10 Vdc.
Service
WARNING:
Do not open the actuator. If the actuator is inoperative, replace the unit.
Troubleshooting
WARNING:
To avoid injury or loss of life, pay attention to any hazardous voltage
(for example, 120 Vac) when performing checks.
•Check that wires are connected correctly.
•Check that offset (start point) and span are set correctly, if used.
•Use a Digital Multimeter (DMM) to verify that the operating voltage is within range.
•If the actuator is not working, check the damper for blockage. If blocked, remove the
obstacle and cycle the actuator power off and on. The actuator should resume
normal operating mode.