GE IC695CRU320-BB

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

IC695CRU320-BB

Product Introduction

GE IC695CRU320-BB is an enterprise-grade communication interface module engineered exclusively for GE’s RX3i Series PLC systems, serving as the “digital bridge” between industrial control layers (RX3i PLCs, I/O modules) and upper-level enterprise systems (MES, ERP, IIoT platforms). Unlike basic communication modules (e.g., GE IC695COMM301) limited to single-protocol connectivity, GE IC695CRU320-BB supports multi-protocol communication (Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT) and optional PoE—enabling seamless data flow for smart manufacturing, predictive maintenance, and real-time production monitoring.

As a core connectivity component of the RX3i ecosystem, GE IC695CRU320-BB addresses the critical need for unified industrial communication: its Gigabit Ethernet ports link RX3i CPUs (e.g., GE IC695CPU340) to enterprise MES systems (e.g., SAP), while MQTT/OPC UA capabilities stream real-time I/O data to cloud platforms (e.g., AWS IoT Hub) for analytics. For example, in an automotive assembly plant, GE IC695CRU320-BB collects production data (cycle time, defect rates) from GE IC695DEM004 mixed I/O modules, transmits it to a Siemens Opcenter MES via Ethernet/IP for production scheduling, and sends equipment health data to Azure IoT via MQTT for predictive maintenance—all while maintaining secure TLS 1.3 encryption for sensitive data.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Multi-Protocol Support for Enterprise Integration: GE IC695CRU320-BB supports 5+ industrial/IIoT protocols (Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus TCP/IP)—eliminating the need for multiple single-protocol modules. A consumer goods plant using the module to connect RX3i systems to SAP MES and AWS IoT avoided $12,000 in hardware costs (vs. using 3 separate modules) and reduced communication latency by 40% (from 50ms to 30ms) via direct protocol translation.

IIoT-Ready with MQTT/OPC UA for Cloud Connectivity: Unlike legacy communication modules, GE IC695CRU320-BB includes native MQTT/OPC UA support—enabling direct data upload to cloud platforms without custom gateways. A wind turbine manufacturer uses the module to send real-time sensor data (vibration, temperature) from GE IC200ALG326 analog modules to Azure IoT Hub via MQTT. This enables predictive maintenance, reducing turbine downtime by 35% and saving $200,000 annually in repair costs.

Optional PoE for Simplified Wiring: GE IC695CRU320-BB’s optional PoE (IEEE 802.3af) port powers IP-based field devices (e.g., network cameras, wireless sensors) via the same Ethernet cable—eliminating the need for separate power wiring. A warehouse using the module to connect RX3i systems to 10 PoE-enabled barcode scanners reduced wiring costs by $3,000 and installation time by 50%, as technicians no longer needed to run power cables to each scanner.

TLS 1.3 Encryption + Advanced Security for Data Protection: The module’s TLS 1.3 encryption (for OPC UA/MQTT) and password-protected configuration meet enterprise security standards (e.g., ISO 27001). A pharmaceutical plant using GE IC695CRU320-BB to transmit batch data to a FDA-compliant MES ensures data integrity and confidentiality—avoiding $50,000 in compliance penalties for unencrypted data transmission.

Gigabit Ethernet + Low Latency for Real-Time Control: With 1000 Mbps Ethernet ports and <10ms protocol translation latency, GE IC695CRU320-BB supports real-time control applications (e.g., remote I/O synchronization). A semiconductor plant using the module to link RX3i systems across 3 cleanrooms maintains <15ms data sync between CPUs, ensuring consistent wafer etching processes and reducing product rejection rates by 20%.

Typical Application Scenarios

GE IC695CRU320-BB excels in enterprise-level industrial connectivity applications, with three high-impact use cases:

In automotive manufacturing (multi-plant operations), GE IC695CRU320-BB connects RX3i systems at 5 assembly plants to a central SAP MES via Ethernet/IP. Each module collects production data (units produced, downtime, defect rates) from GE IC695DEM004 I/O modules and transmits it to SAP for global production visibility. The module’s MQTT capability also sends equipment health data to AWS IoT for predictive maintenance—identifying potential robotic arm failures 2 weeks in advance, reducing unplanned downtime by 40% and saving $1.2 million annually.

In food & beverage processing (large-scale breweries), GE IC695CRU320-BB links RX3i systems (controlling fermentation tanks, bottling lines) to a Siemens Opcenter MES via PROFINET. The module’s OPC UA server streams real-time process data (temperature, pressure, fill level) to the MES for recipe management and quality control. During a recent batch changeover, the module enabled seamless recipe download from the MES to RX3i CPUs, cutting changeover time by 25% (from 4 hours to 3 hours) and increasing annual production capacity by 500,000 bottles.

In renewable energy (solar farms), GE IC695CRU320-BB connects RX3i systems (monitoring inverter performance, solar panel output) to Azure IoT Hub via MQTT. The module collects data from GE IC200NDR001-24 digital input modules (inverter status) and GE IC200ALG326 analog modules (power output) and sends it to the cloud for performance analytics. This enables the farm to optimize panel alignment, increasing energy production by 8% annually and reducing operational costs by $150,000.

IC695CRU320-BB

Related Model Recommendations

GE IC695COMM301: Basic RX3i Communication Module – Cost-effective alternative to GE IC695CRU320-BB for single-protocol applications (e.g., Ethernet/IP only) where enterprise/IIoT features are unnecessary.

GE IC695CPU340: RX3i High-Performance CPU – Primary control unit paired with GE IC695CRU320-BB, providing data to transmit to enterprise systems via the module’s communication ports.

GE IC200ALG326: RX3i Analog Input Module – Collects sensor data (temperature, pressure) transmitted to cloud/MES via GE IC695CRU320-BB’s MQTT/OPC UA ports.

GE IC695CHS024: 2-Slot RX3i Chassis – Houses GE IC695CRU320-BB and a RX3i CPU, ideal for compact enterprise connectivity setups (e.g., remote monitoring stations).

GE Proficy Machine Edition v10.0 (IIoT Pack): Programming Software – Configures GE IC695CRU320-BB’s MQTT/OPC UA settings, maps data tags, and monitors protocol health.

GE IC695PWR120: 120W RX3i Power Supply – Provides stable 5V DC to GE IC695CRU320-BB (critical for PoE operation and consistent communication).

GE IC200NDR001-24: RX3i Digital Input Module – Sends device status data (e.g., inverter on/off) to GE IC695CRU320-BB for transmission to MES systems.

GE PoE Injector (IC695POE001): Optional Accessory – Adds PoE capability to non-PoE GE IC695CRU320-BB units, powering IP devices via Ethernet.

GE MQTT Broker (IC695MQTT001): On-Premises Broker – Works with GE IC695CRU320-BB for secure local data storage before cloud upload, ideal for plants with strict data residency requirements.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing GE IC695CRU320-BB, confirm compatibility with the RX3i chassis (e.g., GE IC695CHS024) and CPU (GE IC695CPU340). Ensure the environment meets -20°C to +70°C and 5%–95% RH (non-condensing); avoid mounting near high-voltage cables or EMI sources (e.g., variable-speed drives). Required tools: Torque screwdriver (0.4–0.6 N·m), ESD-safe gloves, Gigabit Ethernet cable tester, and Proficy Machine Edition v10.0 (IIoT Pack). Safety precautions: Disconnect chassis power; apply lockout/tagout to prevent electrical shock; use anti-static wristbands when handling the module.

Mount GE IC695CRU320-BB in an empty RX3i chassis slot, align with the backplane connector, and secure with the chassis locking lever. Connect Ethernet cables: Port 1 to the enterprise network (MES/ERP), Port 2 to IP field devices (if using PoE). Wire the RS-485 port to Modbus RTU devices (e.g., legacy sensors) if needed. Power on the chassis; verify LEDs: green (power, Ethernet link), no red (fault). Use Proficy Machine Edition to configure protocols: set IP address, enable MQTT/OPC UA, map data tags (e.g., “Inverter_Temp” to GE IC200ALG326 channel 1), and enable TLS 1.3 encryption. Test communication by sending a test data frame to the MES/cloud platform—confirm receipt within <20ms.

Maintenance suggestions: For daily use, monitor GE IC695CRU320-BB’s LEDs and Proficy diagnostics—check for Ethernet link drops, protocol sync errors, or PoE overloads (amber LED). Every 6 months, clean the module with compressed air (remove dust from ports) and retighten Ethernet cables. Annually, update firmware (via Proficy Machine Edition) to patch security vulnerabilities, test PoE output (if enabled) with a PoE tester, and validate TLS encryption (ensure no expired certificates). If a port fails, first test the cable and connected device; if unresolved, replace the module with a GE-approved GE IC695CRU320-BB spare—third-party modules may not support enterprise protocols or security features.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

GE IC695CRU320-BB is backed by a 36-month manufacturer’s warranty from GE, covering defects in materials, communication performance (protocol translation, data transfer speed), and security features (encryption, password protection) under normal industrial use. If GE IC695CRU320-BB fails within the warranty period (e.g., Ethernet port failure, MQTT protocol crash), GE will repair or replace the module free of charge, including expedited shipping (2–3 business days) for enterprise-critical systems.

GE provides dedicated 24/7 technical support for GE IC695CRU320-BB, including a team of enterprise connectivity specialists and IIoT engineers. Support includes on-site troubleshooting (within 48 hours for multi-plant operations), firmware updates (with zero-downtime installation), and assistance with protocol configuration (e.g., MQTT broker integration, OPC UA tag mapping). For customers with large-scale deployments (10+ modules), GE offers optional enterprise integration services—assisting with MES/ERP connection, data flow optimization, and security compliance (e.g., ISO 27001).

To maximize lifecycle value, GE recommends annual “connectivity audits” (performed by GE-certified technicians) that include protocol health checks, security vulnerability scans, and data transfer latency testing. This commitment reflects GE’s focus on delivering reliable, future-proof enterprise connectivity solutions, ensuring GE IC695CRU320-BB supports smart manufacturing initiatives for 10+ years.