GE IC693CPU363 | Series 90-30 PLC CPU Module for Industrial Automation

  • Brand: GE (General Electric)
  • Model: IC693CPU363 (Variant of Series 90-30 PLC Family)
  • Product Type: Central Processing Unit (CPU) Module
  • Series: Series 90-30 (GE Fanuc Legacy Industrial Automation)
  • Core Function: Serves as the central processing unit​ for GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLC systems, executing control logic, managing I/O communication, and ensuring reliable operation in industrial environments. Designed for high performance and scalability in mission-critical applications.
  • Key Specs:
    • Processor: 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor (robust performance for complex control logic)
    • Memory: 240 KB user memory (RAM + Flash, battery-backed for data retention)
    • I/O Capacity: Supports up to 2048 discrete input/output (I/O) points
    • Scan Rate: 0.22 ms per 1K of Boolean logic (time-critical process control)
    • Communication: 3 built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485, supporting SNP/SNPX, RTU protocols)
    • Bus Compatibility: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (fits into Series 90-30 I/O racks)
    • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
Manufacturer:

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Description

IC693CPU363: Product Overview
The GE IC693CPU363​ is a single-slot CPU module​ from GE’s Series 90-30 PLC family, a legacy platform renowned for its reliability in industrial automation. As the “brain” of Series 90-30 systems, it executes user-defined control logic (e.g., ladder diagrams, structured text), manages communication with I/O modules and external devices, and ensures system uptime through robust design—critical for applications where process stability is paramount (e.g., power plants, refineries).
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as the core control module​ in Series 90-30 architectures, the IC693CPU363 performs three primary functions:
  1. Logic Execution: Runs control logic to manage industrial processes (e.g., turbine speed control, valve positioning), ensuring precise and timely adjustments.
  2. I/O Management: Communicates with I/O modules (e.g., digital inputs/outputs, analog modules) via the VMEbus backplane to acquire field device signals (e.g., sensor data) and send control commands (e.g., actuator adjustments).
  3. System Reliability: Features battery-backed memory to retain logic and data during power loss, preventing data corruption and ensuring seamless restarts.
Core Functionality:
  • High-Speed Processing: The 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor and 0.22 ms/K Boolean scan rate enable fast logic execution, critical for time-sensitive processes like turbine tripping or chemical dosing.
  • Flexible I/O Support: Supports up to 2048 discrete I/O points, making it adaptable to diverse field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators).
  • Memory Retention: Battery-backed memory retains logic and data during power loss, preventing downtime and data corruption.
  • Legacy Communication: The 3 built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485) enable connectivity to legacy devices (e.g., meters, sensors) without additional converters, reducing installation costs.
Platform Benefits (Series 90-30):
The IC693CPU363 inherits the Series 90-30 platform’s strengths, including:
  • Reliability: Proven 24/7 operation in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.
  • Legacy Compatibility: Works with existing Series 90-30 components (e.g., I/O racks, communication modules), reducing upgrade costs.
  • Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O modules or memory boards to accommodate growing system demands.

    IC693CPU363

    IC693CPU363

Technical Specifications
  • Model Number: IC693CPU363 (Variant of Series 90-30 PLC Family)
  • Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
  • Product Type: Central Processing Unit (CPU) Module
  • Series: Series 90-30 (Industrial Automation)
  • Processor: 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor
  • Memory: 240 KB user memory (RAM + Flash, battery-backed)
  • I/O Capacity: Up to 2048 discrete I/O points
  • Scan Rate: 0.22 ms per 1K of Boolean logic
  • Communication Ports: 3 built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485, supporting SNP/SNPX, RTU protocols)
  • Bus Standard: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (fits into Series 90-30 I/O racks)
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
  • Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
  • Weight: ~0.34 kg (0.75 lbs)
  • Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. High-Speed Logic Execution:
The 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor and 0.22 ms/K Boolean scan rate ensure fast processing of control logic, critical for time-sensitive processes like turbine speed control or chemical dosing. This minimizes process deviations and optimizes efficiency.
2. Flexible I/O Configuration:
Support for up to 2048 discrete I/O points allows engineers to customize the module’s functionality for different applications. For example, in a power plant, the module can manage both digital signals (e.g., valve position switches) and analog signals (e.g., turbine temperature sensors) using a single CPU.
3. Reliable Memory Retention:
Battery-backed memory retains logic and data during power loss, preventing data corruption and ensuring that the system restarts correctly after a power outage. This is critical for applications where downtime is costly (e.g., power generation).
4. Legacy Communication Support:
The 3 built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485) enable connectivity to legacy devices (e.g., meters, sensors) without additional converters, reducing installation costs and complexity. This is particularly valuable for facilities with existing legacy systems.
5. Easy Integration:
Compatibility with Series 90-30 I/O racks and communication modules ensures seamless integration with existing systems. The module occupies only one slot in the rack, maximizing space efficiency.

IC693CPU363

IC693CPU363

Typical Applications
The GE IC693CPU363​ is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
  1. Power Generation:
    • Controls turbine speed, fuel flow, and generator output in gas/steam turbine power plants—ensuring stable power output and preventing turbine damage.
  2. Manufacturing:
    • Controls assembly line equipment (e.g., robotic arms, conveyor belts) in automotive and electronics manufacturing—ensuring precise and efficient production.
  3. Petrochemical Industry:
    • Manages valve positioning, flow rates, and temperature loops in refineries—ensuring safe and efficient operation of catalytic cracking units and distillation columns.
  4. Water Treatment:
    • Manages pump and valve control in water treatment plants—ensuring proper flow and quality of treated water.