GE IC698RMX016-ED

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

GE IC698RMX016-ED

Product Introduction

GE IC698RMX016-ED is a high-performance remote I/O module engineered exclusively for GE’s PACSystems RX7i/IX industrial control platform, serving as the “distributed I/O hub” that extends centralized control to field devices in large-scale automation systems. Unlike traditional centralized I/O modules that require proximity to the CPU, GE IC698RMX016-ED enables deployment of I/O directly at the machine or process site—reducing costly long-distance wiring, simplifying installation, and improving system flexibility.

As a core distributed control component of PACSystems, GE IC698RMX016-ED stands out for its universal discrete I/O (16 configurable channels), dual Gigabit Ethernet ports (for redundant topologies), and industrial-grade durability. Its support for Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, and Modbus TCP/IP ensures seamless integration with PACSystems CPUs (e.g., GE IC698CPU310) and third-party controllers, making it ideal for applications like automotive assembly lines, oil & gas wellheads, or wastewater treatment plants. For example, in a sprawling automotive factory, GE IC698RMX016-ED modules deployed at each assembly station connect proximity sensors (inputs) and robotic gripper solenoids (outputs) to a central RX7i CPU via Ethernet/IP—cutting wiring costs by 60% compared to a centralized I/O setup and enabling faster reconfiguration for model changes.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Universal 16-Channel I/O for Flexible Configuration: GE IC698RMX016-ED’s 16 channels can be configured as all inputs, all outputs, or a mix (e.g., 8I/8O)—eliminating the need to stock separate input/output modules. A food processing plant using GE IC698RMX016-ED to control filling machines reconfigured 4 channels from inputs (sensor monitoring) to outputs (valve control) during a production line upgrade—no hardware swap required. This flexibility reduced inventory SKUs by 50% and avoided a 4-hour downtime window for module replacement.

Dual Gigabit Ethernet for Redundant/Scalable Networks: The module’s dual Gigabit Ethernet ports support daisy-chain or ring topologies (e.g., PROFINET IRT rings), ensuring communication redundancy and scalable expansion. An oil refinery deployed 12 GE IC698RMX016-ED modules in a PROFINET ring to monitor pump status and control valves—if one Ethernet link failed, the ring automatically rerouted traffic, maintaining 100% uptime. The Gigabit speed also enabled real-time data transfer (latency <1ms) for critical process control, avoiding costly production interruptions.

-40°C to +70°C Operating Range for Harsh Environments: GE IC698RMX016-ED’s wide temperature range and 2000-hour salt spray conformal coating make it suitable for extreme conditions—from frozen food warehouses (-35°C) to desert oil fields (+65°C). A mining operation using GE IC698RMX016-ED to monitor conveyor belt sensors in a -30°C underground mine reported no module failures over 3 years, while standard I/O modules (limited to 0°C–60°C) required quarterly replacements costing $2,400/year.

Channel-Level Diagnostics for Proactive Maintenance: The module provides real-time fault detection for each channel (open circuit, short circuit) and transmits diagnostic data to the PACSystems CPU via Ethernet/IP. A pharmaceutical plant using GE IC698RMX016-ED to control batch mixer sensors received an early warning of a shorted output channel—technicians replaced the faulty valve before it caused a batch failure, saving $15,000 in rework costs. This proactive diagnostics reduced unplanned maintenance by 40% compared to modules without channel-level monitoring.

Seamless PACSystems Integration: GE IC698RMX016-ED is natively supported by GE Proficy Machine Edition software, enabling “plug-and-play” configuration—no custom drivers required. A machine builder integrating 20 GE IC698RMX016-ED modules into a PACSystems RX7i system completed configuration in 2 hours (vs. 8 hours for third-party remote I/O), accelerating time-to-market for the machine and reducing engineering costs by $3,000.

Typical Application Scenarios

GE IC698RMX016-ED excels in distributed automation applications requiring flexible, durable remote I/O, with three high-impact use cases:

In automotive assembly (multi-station lines), GE IC698RMX016-ED modules are deployed at each of 8 assembly stations, connecting 128 proximity sensors (inputs) and 64 robotic solenoids (outputs) to a central GE IC698CPU330 RX7i CPU via Ethernet/IP. Each module’s dual Ethernet ports form a daisy chain, reducing wiring from 500m (centralized I/O) to 150m (distributed I/O)—saving $8,000 in cable costs. The universal I/O also lets the plant reconfigure 4 channels per module from inputs to outputs when switching between car models, cutting changeover time by 30 minutes per station.

In oil & gas wellhead monitoring (remote sites), GE IC698RMX016-ED modules are installed at 10 wellheads, each monitoring 8 pressure sensors (inputs) and controlling 4 emergency shutdown valves (outputs). The modules communicate with a PACSystems IX controller via PROFINET IRT (latency <1ms), ensuring fast response to pressure spikes—if a wellhead exceeds safe pressure, the module triggers a valve shutdown in <200ms. Its -40°C to +70°C range withstands desert heat and winter cold, while salt spray coating resists corrosion from natural gas and humidity—maintaining reliable operation for 5+ years without maintenance.

In wastewater treatment (large plants with multiple tanks), GE IC698RMX016-ED modules are placed near 6 treatment tanks, connecting 96 level switches (inputs) and 48 chemical dosing valves (outputs) to a central RX7i CPU via Modbus TCP/IP. The module’s channel-level diagnostics alert operators to failed level switches before they cause tank overflows—avoiding $10,000 in cleanup costs per incident. The dual Ethernet ports also enable integration with the plant’s SCADA system, providing real-time I/O status to remote operators and reducing on-site visits by 50%.

GE IC698RMX016-ED

Related Model Recommendations

GE IC698RMX032-ED: 32-Channel Remote I/O Module – Upgrade of GE IC698RMX016-ED for applications needing more discrete I/O (e.g., 32 sensors/actuators per station).

GE IC698CPU310: PACSystems RX7i Entry-Level CPU – Primary controller paired with GE IC698RMX016-ED to manage distributed I/O data and execute control logic.

GE IC698ALG008-ED: 8-Channel Analog Remote I/O Module – Complements GE IC698RMX016-ED by adding analog signal monitoring (e.g., temperature, flow) to distributed systems.

GE IC698COMM001: PROFINET Communication Card – Adds PROFINET master capability to PACSystems CPUs for seamless integration with GE IC698RMX016-ED in PROFINET networks.

GE Proficy Machine Edition v10.0: Programming Software – Configures GE IC698RMX016-ED (I/O type, communication settings) and monitors channel diagnostics in real time.

GE IC698PWR120-ED: 120W Industrial Power Supply – Provides stable 24V DC to GE IC698RMX016-ED in remote locations (e.g., wellheads, outdoor tanks).

GE IC698ACC002: Terminal Block Kit for GE IC698RMX016-ED – Removable 32-pin screw terminals for easy field wiring and replacement.

GE IC698RCM001: Ethernet Redundancy Module – Enhances GE IC698RMX016-ED networks with dual-path Ethernet failover (for mission-critical applications like oil refineries).

GE IC698MOT002: Motion Control Module – Pairs with GE IC698RMX016-ED in PACSystems RX7i to add motion control (e.g., robotic arms) to distributed automation systems.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing GE IC698RMX016-ED, confirm compatibility with the PACSystems CPU (e.g., GE IC698CPU310) and communication protocol (Ethernet/IP/PROFINET). Ensure the environment meets -40°C to +70°C and 5%–95% RH (non-condensing); avoid mounting near high-voltage cables (>480V AC) to minimize EMI. Required tools: Torque screwdriver (0.4–0.6 N·m), wire strippers (24–14 AWG), ESD-safe gloves, Gigabit Ethernet cable tester, and Proficy Machine Edition v10.0+. Safety precautions: Disconnect power to the module and field devices; apply lockout/tagout to prevent electrical shock.

Installation process: Mount GE IC698RMX016-ED on a 35mm standard DIN rail (ensure 10mm clearance for airflow). Connect the 24V DC power supply to the terminal block (follow polarity labels: +V, 0V). Wire field devices: for inputs, connect sensors to “IN” and “GND” terminals; for outputs, connect actuators to “OUT” and “GND” terminals (verify sinking/sourcing configuration). Attach Gigabit Ethernet cables to the module’s ports (Port 1 for network connection, Port 2 for daisy-chain/ring).

Commissioning: Power on the module and CPU; launch Proficy Machine Edition and detect the module via Ethernet (auto-discovery via PACSystems). Configure I/O channels: set each channel as input/output/mixed (e.g., “Ch1–8=Input, Ch9–16=Output”) and assign communication parameters (IP address, protocol). Test I/O functionality: send a test output command (e.g., activate Ch9) and verify actuator response; trigger a sensor (e.g., Ch1) and confirm the CPU receives the input signal. Test redundancy (if applicable): disconnect one Ethernet cable and confirm communication switches to the backup path.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily operation, monitor GE IC698RMX016-ED’s status LEDs and Proficy diagnostics (check for “short circuit” or “open circuit” faults). Every 6 months, inspect terminal blocks for loose wires (retorque to 0.5 N·m) and clean the module with compressed air (avoid liquid cleaners). Annually, test short-circuit protection by intentionally shorting an output channel—verify the module limits current to 0.6A and triggers an alarm. If a channel fails, first check the field device and wiring; if unresolved, replace the module with a GE-approved spare (third-party modules may not support PACSystems diagnostics).

Service and Guarantee Commitment

GE IC698RMX016-ED is backed by a 48-month manufacturer’s warranty from GE—twice the length of standard remote I/O modules—covering defects in materials, I/O performance, communication reliability, and environmental protection (per UL 508C and ATEX standards). If GE IC698RMX016-ED fails within the warranty period (e.g., Ethernet port failure, output short-circuit protection malfunction), GE will repair or replace the module free of charge, including expedited shipping for critical systems (e.g., oil refineries, automotive assembly lines).

GE provides specialized technical support for GE IC698RMX016-ED, including 24/7 online resources (installation videos, protocol configuration guides, diagnostic flowcharts) and dedicated PACSystems engineers during business hours. For customers with large-scale deployments (50+ modules), GE offers optional on-site commissioning—verifying network redundancy, I/O functionality, and diagnostic integration—plus training for maintenance teams on module troubleshooting.

To extend the lifecycle of GE IC698RMX016-ED, GE recommends annual “health checks” (performed by GE-certified technicians) that include I/O accuracy testing, Ethernet speed verification, and conformal coating inspection. This commitment reflects GE’s confidence in GE IC698RMX016-ED’s durability and ensures customers maximize the value of their distributed PACSystems I/O infrastructure for 10+ years.