Description
GE Fanuc IC697CMM711: Keep Legacy PLC Systems Talking Smoothly
If you’re maintaining older GE 90-30 PLC setups in a plant that’s been running since the 90s, this little coprocessor module probably feels like an old friend. One thing I appreciate is how it quietly handles communications traffic without hogging CPU cycles – you might notice your conveyor lines or packaging machines responding faster during shift changes when this is properly tuned. From my experience at auto parts plants, it’s typically the unsung hero keeping legacy HMIs and SCADA systems connected when budget won’t allow full controller upgrades.
Why This Module Still Matters Today
- Serial comms offloading – Handles RS-232/422 traffic so your main PLC isn’t bogged down. In many cases, this prevents those annoying timeout errors during barcode scanning operations.
- Backplane compatibility – Slots right into standard IC697 chassis. One plant manager told me swapping this in saved them $18k versus replacing the whole rack for a single comms issue.
- Firmware flexibility – Supports multiple protocol stacks (like SNP/X.25). Seems to be crucial for facilities still using old Modbus RTU devices alongside newer Ethernet gateways.
- Hot-swap capable – Replace it without killing power to critical processes. You’ll want this during midnight maintenance windows when downtime costs $2k/minute.
Technical Reality Check
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand/Model | GE Fanuc IC697CMM711 |
| HS Code | 8537.10.0090 (Programmable controllers) |
| Power Requirements | 5V DC @ 300mA from backplane (no external supply needed) |
| Dimensions & Weight | 130 x 105 x 70 mm / 380g |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to 55°C (avoid locations near oven exhausts – seen too many failures there) |
| Comm Interfaces | Dual RS-232/422 ports (DB9), backplane connection to PLC |
Where It Actually Gets Used
Truth is, you won’t find this in shiny new smart factories. But in aging automotive stamping plants, chemical batch processors, or municipal water facilities? Absolutely. One wastewater client uses it to bridge old flow meters to their modern control room – keeps the treatment process stable without rewriting 20-year-old ladder logic. It’s the kind of workhorse that stays invisible until it fails, then suddenly everyone’s scrambling.
Procurement Perks Worth Noting
When your plant manager asks “why not just upgrade everything?”, point to the real value: compatibility with existing IC697 I/O modules saves rewiring costs, and firmware updates (yes, GE still releases patches) extend system life. Typically avoids the $50k+ headache of migrating legacy safety interlocks. Plus, having it in stock means you’re not shutting down production because some comms card died at 2AM.
Keeping It Alive: Installation & Care
Slide it into any IC697 CPU slot – no special mounting needed. Just ensure your cabinet has at least 75mm clearance on both sides for airflow (those old Allen-Bradley cabinets often skimp here). Avoid placing near VFDs – I’ve seen EMI cause comms dropouts. For maintenance: blow out dust quarterly with compressed air (don’t use solvents!), check terminal screws annually, and update firmware during scheduled outages. Oh, and always power down before removal – that backplane connector isn’t rated for hot-swap despite what some forums claim.
Your Purchase Protection
Ships with full CE certification and GE’s legacy compliance documentation. Warranty runs 365 days from shipment – covers component failures but not lightning strikes (seriously, install surge protectors). In-stock units ship within 1 week via FedEx/UPS/DHL; custom-configured orders take up to 4 weeks. Payment’s 50% upfront to secure stock, balance before shipping. We test every module on actual 90-30 racks before sending – no “as-is” junk here.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.