Siemens OpenAir GCA Series Owner's manual

Technical Instructions
OpenAir™
Document No. 155-173P25
EA GCA-1
January 26, 2011
GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in
Electronic Damper Actuators
Siemens Industry, Inc.
Description The OpenAir 24 Vac/dc spring return 160 lb-in (18 Nm) 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
•160 lb-in (18 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; certified
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 160 lb-
in (18 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 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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 Floating 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.
Page 2 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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
Conformity
UL listed to UL60730
(to replace UL873)
cUL certified to Canadian Standard
C22.2 No. 24-93
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) 2004/108/EC
Immunity for all models, except GCA132.xx EN61000-6-2
Immunity for GCA132.xx EN61000-6-1
Emissions for all models EN61000-6-3
GCA16x GCA15x GCA13x GCA12x GCA22x
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
7 VA/5W 7 VA/5W 7 VA/5W 7 VA/5W 8 VA
Power
Supply
holding 5 VA/3W 5 VA/3W 5 VA/3W 5 VA/3W 6 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)
Floating 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 160 lb-in (18 Nm)
Maximum torque <360 lb-in (40 Nm)
Runtime for 90°
operating with motor 90 sec
closing (on power loss) with spring return 15 seconds typical
NOTE: At -25°F, spring return is 142 lb-in (16 Nm).
Equipment rating Class 2, in accordance with UL/CSA
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 3

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Specifications,
continued
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)
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, 12 LRA
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.
Housing Enclosure NEMA 2, IP54 per EN 60 529
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
Page 4 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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)
Country of Origin USA
Actuator
Components
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
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 5

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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.
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.
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.
Page 6 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Accessories,
Continued
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.)
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.
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 7

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Service Parts
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.
Operation
GCA12x and GCA22x: 2-Position Control
When power is applied, the actuator coupling moves toward the open position 90°.
GCA13x: Floating 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.
Page 8 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Implementation of
DIP Switch Features
(GCA15x Only)
Counterclockwise
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.
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.
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
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 9

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Settings Uo = 2Y; ΔU = 16V
Umin = minimum control signal
Umax = maximum control signal
Figure 15. Example.
Dual Auxiliary Switch GCAxx4, GCAxx6
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
B
90
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.
Page 10 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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.
Table 2.
Sizing
Total Torque Actuator
<62 lb-in (7 Nm) GMA
>62 lb-in <160 lb-in
(>7 Nm <18 Nm) GCA
>160 lb-in <284 lb-in
(>18 Nm <32 Nm)
ASK73.2U*: Tandem mounting bracket with any
combination of GCA16x.
ASK73.1U*: Tandem mounting bracket for all
other GCAx actuators.
*Tandem application tested for up to four actuators. Each bracket mounts two actuators.
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 11

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Mounting and Installation
<
90
˚
<
90
˚
90
˚
NEMA 2
EA1104R1
Figure 17.
Acceptable NEMA 2, IP54 per EN 60 529
Mounting Positions.
EA1105R1
90
˚
Figure 18.
Only Acceptable Mounting 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.
Page 12 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 13

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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.
Page 14 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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.
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 15

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
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, Floating 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).
Page 16 Siemens Industry, Inc.

OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator Technical Instructions
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Siemens Industry, Inc. Page 17
Table 4. Wire Designations.
ColorStandard
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
Start-Up/
Commissioning
GCA12x (24
Vac/dc)
GCA22x (120 Vac)
1. Check Operation:
a. Switch on Vac/dc power.
b. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate from 0 to 90°.
c. Switch off Vac/dc power.
The actuator shaft coupling will return to the "0" position.
2. Check Spring Return:
a. Switch on Vac power.
b. Allow the actuator shaft coupling to rotate halfway.
c. Switch off 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 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 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling
reaches the setting of switch A.

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuators
Document Number 155-173P25
December 7, 2009
Page 18 Siemens Industry, Inc.
Start-Up/
Commissioning
GCA12x (24
Vac/dc)
GCA22x (120 Vac)
(Continued)
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 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 Vac power.
The DMM should indicate contact closure as the actuator shaft coupling
reaches the setting of switch B.
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.

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Page 19
Start-Up/
Commissioning
GCA13x
(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 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.
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.

Technical Instructions OpenAir™ GCA Series Spring Return 160 lb-in Electronic Damper Actuator
Document No. 155-173P25
January 26, 2011
Page 20 Siemens Industry, Inc.
Start-Up
Commissioning
GCA15X
GCA16X
(Continued)
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.
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.