GE IC697CPU788RR

Description

Detailed Parameter Table

GE IC697BEM721

Product Introduction

The GE IC697CPU788RR is a flagship redundant CPU module of GE’s Series 90-70 PLC platform, engineered to deliver fault-tolerant control for mission-critical industrial automation systems where downtime is unacceptable. As the core of GE’s redundant control ecosystem, the GE IC697CPU788RR operates in a 1+1 hot standby configuration—two identical modules work in tandem, with one acting as the “active” CPU (executing programs and controlling I/O) and the other as the “standby” CPU (synchronizing data in real time). In the event of an active CPU failure, the GE IC697CPU788RR automatically switches to the standby module in less than 100 ms, ensuring zero data loss and uninterrupted system operation.

Equipped with a 32-bit RISC processor (800 MHz) and 128 MB RAM, the GE IC697CPU788RR handles complex control logic (e.g., sequential process control, interlock protection) and high-volume I/O data with minimal latency. Its 512 MB non-volatile flash memory securely stores user programs and configuration data, while the 24V DC external backup power prevents data corruption during power outages. With dual Ethernet ports and a Genius Bus port, the GE IC697CPU788RR seamlessly integrates with GE’s industrial communication network—connecting to HMI devices (e.g., GE IC754VBF15CTD), remote I/O modules, and SCADA systems for comprehensive monitoring and control.

Core Advantages and Technical Highlights

Ultra-Fast Redundant Failover: The GE IC697CPU788RR’s 1+1 hot standby redundancy ensures failover times of less than 100 ms—far faster than industry averages (typically 500 ms+). This near-instantaneous switch eliminates process disruptions in critical applications like power generation or oil refining, where even a 1-second outage could lead to equipment damage, environmental non-compliance, or production losses. The modules synchronize data (program logic, I/O status, timer values) every 10 ms, ensuring the standby CPU is always ready to take over without data gaps.

Robust Processing and I/O Scalability: Powered by an 800 MHz 32-bit RISC processor, the GE IC697CPU788RR executes 10,000 ladder logic instructions in just 0.2 ms—enabling complex control sequences (e.g., batch processing with multiple recipe steps) to run smoothly. It supports up to 32,768 discrete I/O and 4,096 analog I/O points via Series 90-70 expansion modules (e.g., GE IC697VAL348 analog output modules), making it suitable for large-scale systems like refineries or water treatment plants with distributed control needs.

Multi-Protocol Communication Flexibility: The GE IC697CPU788RR features dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports that support TCP/IP and Modbus TCP, enabling redundant communication paths to SCADA systems and HMIs. This prevents network single points of failure—if one Ethernet port loses connectivity, the module automatically switches to the backup port. The built-in Genius Bus port also allows integration with GE’s legacy Genius I/O modules (e.g., GE IC697BEM721 bus controller), ensuring compatibility with existing Series 90-70 installations and reducing upgrade costs.

Hazardous Area Compliance: Unlike standard CPU modules, the GE IC697CPU788RR is ATEX Zone 2 certified, making it suitable for use in hazardous environments with flammable gases or vapors (e.g., oil and gas production facilities, chemical plants). Its rugged design (reinforced circuit boards, conformal coating) resists corrosion and electromagnetic interference (EMI) from nearby high-voltage equipment, ensuring reliable operation in harsh industrial conditions.

Typical Application Scenarios

The GE IC697CPU788RR is essential in industries where system downtime carries severe consequences. In fossil fuel power plants, for example, the GE IC697CPU788RR controls the boiler feedwater system—a critical process where interruptions could lead to boiler dry-fire and catastrophic equipment failure. The module’s redundant configuration ensures that if the active CPU fails, the standby unit takes over instantly, maintaining precise control of feedwater flow rate and pressure. Its Ethernet ports connect to the plant’s SCADA system, allowing operators to monitor real-time data (e.g., water level, pump status) via GE IC754VBF15CTD HMIs, while the Genius Bus port integrates with remote I/O modules in the boiler room.

In oil and gas pipeline control systems, the GE IC697CPU788RR manages pipeline pressure regulation and valve actuation. Its ATEX Zone 2 certification allows installation in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres, while the 0-60°C operating temperature range withstands extreme outdoor conditions (e.g., desert or arctic pipeline routes). The module’s redundant failover prevents pressure spikes or valve misalignment during CPU failures, avoiding pipeline leaks or ruptures that could cause environmental damage and financial penalties.

In municipal water treatment plants, the GE IC697CPU788RR controls the disinfection process (e.g., chlorine dosing) and wastewater filtration systems. Its ability to handle 4,096 analog I/O points allows precise monitoring of chlorine levels, pH values, and filter pressure, while the redundant configuration ensures continuous operation—critical for preventing untreated water from entering public water supplies. The module’s 24V DC backup power also keeps the system running during grid outages, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

GE IC697BEM721

Related Model Recommendations

GE IC697CPU772RR: A mid-range redundant CPU variant of the GE IC697CPU788RR (512 MHz processor, 64 MB RAM), ideal for medium-scale systems (e.g., food processing plants) where full IC697CPU788RR performance is not required.

GE IC697BEM721: Genius Bus Controller Module, paired with GE IC697CPU788RR to connect the redundant CPU to distributed Genius I/O modules (e.g., in remote pump stations).

GE IC697VAL348: 4-channel analog output module, powered by GE IC697CPU788RR to control valves, pumps, and dosing systems in redundant process loops.

GE IC697PWR711: 5V/24V DC power supply module for Series 90-70 backplanes, providing stable power to GE IC697CPU788RR redundant pairs (prevents voltage fluctuations that could disrupt synchronization).

GE IC754VBF15CTD: 15-inch touchscreen HMI, compatible with GE IC697CPU788RR to display redundant CPU status (active/standby) and real-time process data for operator monitoring.

GE IC697MEM711: Memory expansion module for GE IC697CPU788RR, adding 128 MB RAM to support larger user programs (e.g., complex batch processing logic in pharmaceutical plants).

GE IC697CHS160: 16-slot Series 90-70 backplane, designed to accommodate GE IC697CPU788RR redundant pairs (requires two adjacent slots) and expansion modules.

GE IC697CMM742: Ethernet communication module, enhancing GE IC697CPU788RR’s connectivity to third-party SCADA systems (e.g., Siemens WinCC) via Ethernet/IP protocol.

Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance Instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing GE IC697CPU788RR, power off the Series 90-70 backplane and wear an ESD wrist strap to protect the module’s processor and memory. Verify the backplane is a 10-slot or larger Series 90-70 model (to accommodate two adjacent slots for the redundant pair) and that the 5V DC power supply (from GE IC697PWR711) is stable. Inspect the module’s backplane pins for bending or corrosion—damaged pins can disrupt redundancy synchronization. Align each GE IC697CPU788RR module with the backplane’s guide rails, push firmly until they click into place, and secure with locking screws. Connect the 24V DC backup power to both modules and use a crossover cable to link their redundancy sync ports (critical for data synchronization).

Maintenance suggestions: Conduct weekly checks of GE IC697CPU788RR’s status LEDs—green for active CPU, yellow for standby, and red for fault. If a fault occurs, use GE Proficy Machine Edition to view diagnostic logs (e.g., CPU overheating, communication failure) and replace the faulty module within 24 hours to restore full redundancy. Every 3 months, clean the modules’ vents with compressed air to prevent overheating and verify redundancy sync by manually triggering a failover (via software) to ensure the standby module takes over correctly. Back up the user program monthly to a secure location—if both modules require replacement, restore the program to the new GE IC697CPU788RR pair to avoid reconfiguration.

Service and Guarantee Commitment

The GE IC697CPU788RR comes with a 36-month warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in materials, workmanship, and redundancy functionality under normal industrial use. GE’s global technical support team is available 24/7 via email, phone, and remote diagnostics to assist with installation, redundancy configuration, and troubleshooting—critical issues (e.g., failed failover causing system risk) receive priority support, with on-site assistance within 24 hours in major industrial regions (e.g., North America, Europe, Asia).

For customers operating in hazardous areas or mission-critical sectors, GE offers customized service agreements tailored to GE IC697CPU788RR, including annual redundancy testing (verifying failover speed and data sync), firmware updates, and expedited spare parts delivery (with 48-hour global shipping for stock modules). All genuine GE IC697CPU788RR units undergo rigorous testing—including 1,000+ failover cycles and temperature stress tests—to meet ATEX, UL, and IEC standards. In the event of a warranty claim, GE provides a replacement module within 24 hours (for critical applications) to minimize redundancy gaps, reflecting our commitment to ensuring uninterrupted operation for our customers.