GE Fanuc IC697CPM914 GMR Redundant CPU Module – High‑availability control for Series 90‑70 platforms

The GE Fanuc IC697CPM914 is the dedicated GMR redundant CPU for Series 90‑70 systems. It’s purpose-built for Genius Modular Redundancy (GMR), where three independent controllers execute the same logic and a 2oo3 voting scheme keeps the process running even if one lane falters. From my experience, this module is chosen when uptime is non‑negotiable—think turbine auxiliaries, burner management assistance layers, or high‑integrity process control where deterministic behavior matters more than raw speed. You might notice that it behaves like a standard 90‑70 CPU for development, yet it integrates smoothly with the GMR architecture to provide the voting and diagnostics that maintenance teams rely on day to day.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• – Warranty: 365 days from shipment

• – Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month latest

• – Payment terms: 50% advance payment, balance prior to delivery

– Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• GMR triple modular redundancy – Designed for 2oo3 voting architectures to maintain control continuity if a single controller path fails.
• Bumpless fault tolerance – Application execution remains deterministic; process outputs typically stay steady through single‑lane faults.
• Series 90‑70 ecosystem – Works with proven 90‑70 racks, power supplies, and I/O; easy to standardize spares across plants.
• Programming via SNP serial – Supports GE programming tools over the SNP port; straightforward for maintenance teams used to 90‑70 practices.
• Diagnostics and status indication – Front‑panel LEDs and standard fault reporting simplify troubleshooting, especially in redundant nodes.
• Battery‑backed memory – Retains application data through power cycles; nonvolatile storage options are typically supported for firmware and user logic.
• Network and fieldbus flexibility – Pairs with separate 90‑70 communication modules for Genius, Ethernet, and other field networks when required.

Technical Specifications

Brand / Model	GE Fanuc IC697CPM914 (GMR Redundant CPU for Series 90‑70)
HS Code	8537.10
Power Requirements	Supplied via Series 90‑70 backplane 5 VDC (from rack power supply); no separate external power to the CPU module
Dimensions & Weight	Standard 90‑70 single‑slot module; full rack height (approx. 6U)
Operating Temperature	Typically 0 to 60 °C (industrial cabinet environment)
Signal I/O Types	CPU module only; digital/analog I/O provided by separate Series 90‑70 I/O modules
Communication Interfaces	Front SNP serial port for programming (RS‑232/RS‑485 via appropriate cable); fieldbus and Ethernet via separate 90‑70 comm modules
Installation Method	Plug‑in to Series 90‑70 rack; used in triplicated GMR nodes with 2oo3 voter architecture
Memory	Battery‑backed RAM; supports nonvolatile storage for application/firmware (typical for 90‑70 CPUs)
Redundancy Role	Engineered for GE GMR with deterministic synchronization and fault‑tolerant operation

Application Fields

Plants typically deploy the IC697CPM914 when they need continuous operation and predictable failover. Common scenarios include:

• Power generation balance‑of‑plant control and boiler auxiliaries
• Oil & gas process units, compressor stations, and high‑integrity interlocks
• Chemicals and refining where any nuisance trip is costly
• Metals, mining, and pulp & paper lines that prefer redundant logic solvers
• Water and wastewater plants that standardize on Series 90‑70 for critical areas

A maintenance lead put it simply: “We kept the 90‑70 GMR for our most sensitive loops—diagnostics are familiar, spares are shared, and it just runs.”

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – The 2oo3 GMR approach provides high tolerance to single‑point failures and typically minimizes process disruptions.
• Compatibility – Fits the Series 90‑70 ecosystem, leveraging existing racks, power supplies, I/O, and engineering tools.
• Lifecycle cost control – Reuse proven code and trained personnel; fewer surprise changes to infrastructure.
• Support readiness – We can arrange fast shipment on in‑stock units and provide guidance for installation and firmware handling.

Installation & Maintenance

• Panel and cabinet – Install in a Series 90‑70 rack within a ventilated, clean cabinet; maintain ambient within the specified temperature range.
• Wiring and grounding – Use proper shielded cabling for the SNP/programming connection; maintain a solid earth ground for the rack and field I/O.
• Redundancy layout – For GMR, build three independent controller lanes with segregated power and I/O paths, then implement the voter as per GE application notes.
• Battery and memory – Check the CPU battery on a maintenance schedule; back up logic and configuration after any change.
• Firmware and tools – Keep firmware and programming software at compatible revisions; test updates on a non‑production node when possible.
• Routine checks – Review diagnostics, error logs, and LED indicators; validate GMR voting health during planned shutdowns.

Quality & Certifications

• Certifications: CE, UL/cUL (typical for Series 90‑70 family)
• Manufacturing quality: Built to GE Fanuc industrial standards
• Warranty: 365 days