GE IC695PNC001AF PROFINET Controller for PACSystems RX3i – Fast, deterministic I/O networking on PROFINET

The GE IC695PNC001AF is the PROFINET Controller module for PACSystems RX3i. It lets an RX3i rack act as the PROFINET IO Controller, so you can connect distributed I/O, drives, and other PROFINET devices with stable scan times and solid diagnostics. From my experience, it’s a straightforward way to standardize on Ethernet-based fieldbus without giving up the determinism you expect from a PLC system.

Our Order Process & Guarantees

• Lead time: typically 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest.
• Warranty: 365 days replacement/repair coverage.
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery.
• Shipping: FedEx / UPS / DHL, export-ready packing.
• Process: we confirm model/revision → issue PI → receive prepayment → functional check & pack → ship with tracking.

Key Features

• PROFINET IO Controller – Acts as the master for distributed PROFINET devices; ideal for remote I/O and drive networks.
• Dual RJ‑45 copper ports – Two 10/100Base‑TX ports with an embedded switch for line or ring topologies. You might notice it simplifies panel wiring a lot.
• Deterministic cyclic I/O – Stable update times for motion-friendly and high-speed machine control, typically without complex tuning.
• Robust diagnostics – Port status, device alarms, and PROFINET health visible in PAC Machine Edition; speeds up troubleshooting on the floor.
• GSDML-based integration – Import device GSDML files, map I/O, and download; device replacement usually requires minimal effort.
• MRP ring support (client) – Works with Media Redundancy Protocol rings to improve network availability in many cases.
• RX3i-native form factor – Single-slot module, powered from the RX3i backplane; no external power bricks to manage.

Technical Specifications

Related & Supporting Products

• IC695CPU series (e.g., IC695CPU310 / IC695CPU320 / IC695CPU340) – RX3i CPUs commonly paired with the PNC for PROFINET control.
• IC695CHS012 / IC695CHS016 – RX3i rack/backplane options depending on slot count.
• IC695PSA140 / IC695PSD140 – RX3i power supplies sized for typical system loads.
• IC695ETM001 – Enhanced Ethernet module for standard Ethernet/TCP networking when PROFINET is not required.
• PROFINET remote I/O blocks and drives from major vendors – integrate via GSDML; device count and update times depend on project design and firmware.

Installation & Maintenance

One thing I appreciate is how predictable the setup is. A few practical pointers that typically make the first run smoother:

• Cabinet & rack: Install the IC695PNC001AF in an RX3i rack within an IP20-rated enclosure. Keep ambient 0–60 °C with adequate ventilation; leave space for airflow around the module.
• Wiring: Use industrial Cat5e/Cat6 shielded cables; bond shields at one side to avoid loops. Keep separation from high-voltage or noisy motor cables.
• Topology: Line or ring are common. If using MRP rings, ensure the MRP Manager is present on the network and the PNC is configured as a client.
• Configuration: Assign unique PROFINET device names, import GSDML files in PAC Machine Edition, then map I/O and alarms clearly. You might notice device replacement becomes much faster with consistent naming.
• Grounding: Proper panel grounding reduces intermittent link issues; it seems to be one of the top fixes for hard-to-find noise problems.
• Routine maintenance: Check connector tightness quarterly, clean dust from the rack, review diagnostics/alarms, and keep module firmware aligned with your CPU firmware baseline.
• Spare strategy: Keep one spare PNC module and an SD card/backup of the project for quick recovery.

Quality & Certifications

• CE compliant; UL/cUL listings for industrial control equipment.
• RoHS compliant manufacturing; typically produced under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Warranty: 365 days. Units are function-tested before shipping.

If you’re upgrading an RX3i to PROFINET for the first time, we can review your device list and topology to confirm firmware compatibility and a sensible update rate. In many cases, a short pre-check avoids onsite surprises.