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:
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Logic Execution: Runs control logic to manage industrial processes (e.g., turbine speed control, valve positioning), ensuring precise and timely adjustments.
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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).
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System Reliability: Features battery-backed memory to retain logic and data during power loss, preventing data corruption and ensuring seamless restarts.
Core Functionality:
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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.
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Flexible I/O Support: Supports up to 2048 discrete I/O points, making it adaptable to diverse field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators).
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Memory Retention: Battery-backed memory retains logic and data during power loss, preventing downtime and data corruption.
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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:
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Reliability: Proven 24/7 operation in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.
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Legacy Compatibility: Works with existing Series 90-30 components (e.g., I/O racks, communication modules), reducing upgrade costs.
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O modules or memory boards to accommodate growing system demands.
IC693CPU363
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC693CPU363 (Variant of Series 90-30 PLC Family)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: Central Processing Unit (CPU) Module
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Series: Series 90-30 (Industrial Automation)
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Processor: 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor
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Memory: 240 KB user memory (RAM + Flash, battery-backed)
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I/O Capacity: Up to 2048 discrete I/O points
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Scan Rate: 0.22 ms per 1K of Boolean logic
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Communication Ports: 3 built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485, supporting SNP/SNPX, RTU protocols)
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Bus Standard: VMEbus Rev. C.1 (fits into Series 90-30 I/O racks)
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Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Weight: ~0.34 kg (0.75 lbs)
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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
Typical Applications
The GE IC693CPU363 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Controls turbine speed, fuel flow, and generator output in gas/steam turbine power plants—ensuring stable power output and preventing turbine damage.
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Manufacturing:
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Controls assembly line equipment (e.g., robotic arms, conveyor belts) in automotive and electronics manufacturing—ensuring precise and efficient production.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Manages valve positioning, flow rates, and temperature loops in refineries—ensuring safe and efficient operation of catalytic cracking units and distillation columns.
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Water Treatment:
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Manages pump and valve control in water treatment plants—ensuring proper flow and quality of treated water.
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