Description
IC697CPU771: Product Overview
The GE IC697CPU771 is a single-slot, expandable CPU module from GE’s Series 90-70 PLC family, a legacy platform renowned for its reliability in industrial automation. As the “brain” of Series 90-70 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 90-70 architectures, the IC697CPU771 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 VME C.1 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 (lithium battery IC697ACC701) 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 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor and 0.4μs Boolean speed enable fast logic execution, critical for time-sensitive processes like turbine tripping or chemical dosing.
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Flexible I/O Support: Supports 2K discrete points (any combination of inputs/outputs) and 8K analog points, making it adaptable to diverse field devices (e.g., sensors, actuators).
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Memory Expansion: Allows expansion up to 512KB using CMOS RAM boards, accommodating growing system demands (e.g., adding more sensors or complex logic).
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Legacy Communication: The RS485 serial interface enables connectivity to legacy devices (e.g., meters, sensors) without additional converters, reducing installation costs.
Platform Benefits (Series 90-70):
The IC697CPU771 inherits the Series 90-70 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 90-70 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.
GE IC697CPU771
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC697CPU771 (Variant of Series 90-70 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 90-70 (Industrial Automation)
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Processor: 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor
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Boolean Speed: 0.4 microseconds per instruction
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I/O Capacity:
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2K discrete points (any combination of inputs/outputs)
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8K analog points (supports analog input/output modules)
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Memory:
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2KB discrete memory (for logic and data)
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8KB analog memory (for analog signal processing)
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512KB expandable RAM (battery-backed, using CMOS RAM boards)
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Communication: 1× RS485 serial interface (15-pin D-type connector)
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Power Consumption: 1.1 Amps nominal from +5 VDC bus
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Battery Backup: Lithium battery IC697ACC701 (retains memory during power loss)
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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: ~0.42 kg (0.93 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. High-Speed Logic Execution:
The 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor and 0.4μs Boolean speed 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 2K discrete points and 8K analog 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:
The lithium battery backup (IC697ACC701) 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 RS485 serial interface enables 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 90-70 I/O racks and communication modules ensures seamless integration with existing systems. The module occupies only one slot in the rack, maximizing space efficiency.
GE IC697CPU771
Typical Applications
The GE IC697CPU771 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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