Description

Professional Product Description: GE IC693CPU367 High-Performance CPU Module (90-30 PLC Series)

Detailed Parameter Table

IC693CPU367

Product introduction

GE IC693CPU367 is a high-performance CPU module engineered for GE’s 90-30 PLC series, designed to serve as the core control unit for complex industrial processes requiring large-scale I/O integration, fast data processing, and advanced control logic. Unlike mid-range 90-30 CPUs (e.g., GE IC693CPU363LT), GE IC693CPU367 boosts processing power with a 32-bit RISC processor, expands memory capacity (128 KB program / 64 KB data), and adds advanced features like built-in PID loops and floating-point arithmetic—making it ideal for applications such as multi-loop process control, high-speed manufacturing lines, and large-scale distributed systems.

In industrial automation, GE IC693CPU367 acts as the “intelligent control hub” for 90-30 systems, executing complex logic, managing thousands of I/O points, and communicating with distributed devices via modules like GE IC687BEM731CA. For example, in a large chemical plant’s batch reactor system, GE IC693CPU367 monitors 64 analog inputs (temperature, pressure, flow) via GE IC693PTM100CA and other I/O modules, runs 16 PID loops to regulate reactor conditions, and logs process data to track batch consistency. Its 0.5 µs basic instruction speed ensures real-time adjustments to avoid process deviations, while its 5-year battery backup preserves critical batch data during power outages.

What defines GE IC693CPU367 is its balance of power and versatility: it retains compatibility with all 90-30 hardware but adds advanced functions to handle complex tasks that would require external controllers with lower-tier CPUs. This makes it a top choice for legacy 90-30 upgrades in industries like chemicals, oil & gas, and advanced manufacturing—where process complexity and data integrity are mission-critical.

Core advantages and technical highlights

32-Bit RISC Processing for Fast Complex Logic: GE IC693CPU367’s 40 MHz 32-bit RISC processor executes basic instructions in 0.5 µs—twice as fast as GE IC693CPU363LT—and handles floating-point operations (e.g., flow rate calculations) in 2 µs. In a high-speed automotive stamping plant, the CPU processes 128 digital inputs (sensor status) and 64 digital outputs (press controls) in 10ms, enabling the PLC to adjust stamping pressure and speed in real time. This speed reduced press cycle time by 8% compared to the previous CPU, increasing production capacity by 150 units per shift.

Expanded Memory for Large Programs & Data Logging: With 128 KB program memory and 64 KB data memory, GE IC693CPU367 supports complex programs (e.g., multi-line manufacturing control) and data logging for regulatory compliance. A pharmaceutical company uses the CPU to log 5,000+ batch data points (temperature, pH, mixing speed) per production run, storing data in SRAM with 5-year battery backup. This eliminates the need for external data loggers, reducing hardware costs by $3,000 per reactor and ensuring compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11.

Built-In PID Control for Multi-Loop Processes: GE IC693CPU367 includes 32 built-in PID loops—no external modules required—simplifying multi-variable control. In a wastewater treatment plant’s aeration system, the CPU uses 8 PID loops to regulate dissolved oxygen levels in 8 treatment tanks: it reads oxygen sensor data (via analog inputs), adjusts blower speed (via GE IC693MDL632 analog outputs), and maintains oxygen at 2 mg/L. This integrated PID control reduced blower energy consumption by 12% compared to using external PID modules, saving $15,000 annually.

Multi-Protocol Communication for Distributed Systems: Unlike basic 90-30 CPUs, GE IC693CPU367 includes both RS-232 and RS-485 ports, supporting Modbus RTU for multi-drop communication with remote devices. A warehouse uses the CPU to connect 24 remote I/O racks (via GE IC687BEM731CA) and 16 barcode scanners over RS-485, enabling real-time inventory tracking across 50,000 square feet. The multi-protocol support eliminated the need for a separate communication gateway, cutting network setup costs by 25%.

Typical application scenarios

GE IC693CPU367 is widely used in complex process industries, such as a 50,000-barrel-per-day oil refinery’s distillation unit control. The CPU connects to 4 GE IC687BEM731CA bus modules, managing 128 analog inputs (tower temperatures, pressure) via GE IC693PTM100CA and 64 analog outputs (valve positioners). It runs 24 PID loops to regulate reflux flow, steam input, and product draw, ensuring precise separation of hydrocarbons. Its data logging function records hourly process data for 6 months, supporting regulatory reporting (e.g., EPA emissions tracking).

During a refinery upset (sudden pressure spike), GE IC693CPU367 detected the anomaly in 5ms, activated emergency relief valves via digital outputs, and logged the event with a timestamp. This response prevented a potential tower shutdown, avoiding $100,000 in lost production. The CPU’s 5-year battery backup also preserved 3 days of process data during a grid outage, enabling engineers to analyze the upset cause post-restoration.

Another key application is advanced manufacturing, such as a semiconductor packaging line. GE IC693CPU367 controls 8 robotic assembly stations, 32 vision sensors (via digital inputs), and 16 conveyor systems. Its floating-point arithmetic enables precise calculation of component placement coordinates, while its fast processing speed ensures robotic movements are synchronized to 0.1mm tolerance. This precision reduced packaging defects by 20% compared to using a mid-range 90-30 CPU.

IC693CPU367

Related model recommendations

GE IC693CPU363LT: Extended-temperature variant of GE IC693CPU367 (-25°C to +70°C, smaller memory); ideal for harsh environments where advanced processing is not required.

GE IC693PTM100CA: RTD temperature module paired with GE IC693CPU367; monitors extreme temperatures (-200°C to +850°C) in refineries, chemical plants, and semiconductor facilities.

GE IC687BEM731CA: Bus expansion module for GE IC693CPU367; extends connectivity to remote I/O racks and smart devices via Genius Bus, critical for large-scale distributed systems.

GE IC693MDL632: 8-channel analog output module compatible with GE IC693CPU367; controls valves, drives, and blowers in PID control loops (e.g., wastewater aeration systems).

GE IC693PWR322: High-output 90-30 power supply module; provides 12A of 5V DC to power GE IC693CPU367 and multiple I/O modules in dense control racks.

GE Proficy Machine Edition v8.0: Programming software for GE IC693CPU367; supports all 4 programming languages (LD/FBD/ST/SFC) and advanced diagnostics for PID loops.

GE IC693ACC303: 5-year replacement battery for GE IC693CPU367; preserves data memory during power outages in critical process applications (e.g., pharmaceutical batch control).

GE IC693RCM301: Genius Bus repeater for GE IC693CPU367; extends bus length to 1000m and increases node count to 128, enabling large-scale distributed control (e.g., warehouse inventory systems).

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing GE IC693CPU367, confirm compatibility with the 90-30 backplane (rev. 4.0+ for full functionality) and I/O modules. Ensure the environment meets 0°C to +60°C and 5%–95% RH (non-condensing). Required tools: torque screwdriver (0.4–0.6 N·m), ESD-safe gloves, multimeter, and Proficy Machine Edition v8.0+ software. Safety precautions: Power off the 90-30 system and apply lockout/tagout. Align GE IC693CPU367 with the backplane’s CPU slot, engage the connector, and secure with M3 screws (torque to 0.5 N·m).

Commissioning: Power on the system; use Proficy Machine Edition to detect the CPU and verify firmware version (v5.0+ recommended). Upload control programs (supports LD/FBD/ST/SFC) and configure advanced functions: set PID loop parameters (proportional gain, integral time) via the software’s PID tuning tool, and enable data logging (define event triggers, storage intervals). Test I/O connectivity by sending commands to remote modules (e.g., activate a valve via GE IC693MDL632) and verifying sensor feedback. Confirm battery backup by disconnecting power—data memory should retain values for ≥72 hours.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily operation, monitor GE IC693CPU367’s status LEDs (green = normal, red = fault, amber = low battery/program error) via the HMI. Every 6 months, inspect the module for corrosion (clean with a dry lint-free cloth) and test battery voltage (should be >3.2V; replace with GE IC693ACC303 if <3.0V). Annually, verify PID loop performance by injecting test signals and confirming response times (<100ms for critical loops). Use Proficy Machine Edition’s diagnostic tool to check for program errors or communication faults. If the CPU faults, replace with a GE-approved spare—third-party CPUs may not support advanced features like floating-point arithmetic or PID loops.

Service and guarantee commitment

GE IC693CPU367 is backed by a 36-month manufacturer’s warranty from GE—12 months longer than standard 90-30 CPUs—covering defects in materials, workmanship, and advanced function performance (e.g., PID control, data logging) per UL 508C and ATEX standards. For customers in critical industries (e.g., oil & gas, pharmaceuticals), GE offers a “priority support program”: replacement CPUs are shipped within 24 hours, and technical specialists provide remote troubleshooting within 2 hours of a reported fault.

GE provides free access to GE IC693CPU367’s technical manual (including PID tuning guides and data logging configuration steps) for 36 months post-purchase. Customers also receive complimentary updates to Proficy Machine Edition’s advanced diagnostic tools. For complex installations, GE offers optional on-site commissioning—verifying CPU performance, optimizing PID loops, and training staff on advanced functions—ensuring the module delivers maximum value in high-demand industrial environments.