Description
IC698CRE030: Product Overview
The GE IC698CRE030 is a redundant central processing unit from GE’s RX7i PACSystem series, a legacy platform renowned for its reliability in industrial automation. As the “brain” of RX7i PLC systems, it executes control logic, manages I/O communication, and ensures system uptime through hot standby redundancy—critical for applications where even brief downtime can result in significant losses (e.g., power plants, refineries).
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as the core control module in RX7i architectures, the IC698CRE030 performs three primary functions:
-
Logic Execution: Runs user-defined control logic (e.g., ladder diagrams, structured text) to manage industrial processes (e.g., turbine speed control, valve positioning).
-
I/O Management: Communicates with I/O modules (e.g., digital inputs/outputs, analog modules) via the VME64 backplane to acquire field device signals (e.g., sensor data) and send control commands (e.g., actuator adjustments).
-
Redundancy & Reliability: Works with a backup CPU (same model) to provide hot standby redundancy—if the primary CPU fails, the backup takes over seamlessly (sub-cycle switchover) to prevent process interruptions.
Core Functionality:
-
High-Speed Processing: The 600 MHz Pentium-M microprocessor ensures fast logic execution (e.g., <0.069 ms per 1000 Boolean contacts), critical for time-sensitive processes like turbine tripping or chemical dosing.
-
Hot Standby Redundancy: When paired with a backup CPU (IC698CRE030) and Redundancy Memory Xchange module (IC698RMX016), the IC698CRE030 provides uninterrupted control—ideal for mission-critical applications where downtime is not an option.
-
Flexible Communication: The dual Ethernet ports support 10/100 Mbps communication (auto-negotiated) for integration with HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., GE Proficy Human Machine Interface). The three isolated serial ports (RS-232/RS-485) allow connectivity to legacy devices (e.g., meters, sensors) without additional converters.
-
Data Integrity: The 64 MB battery-backed RAM retains logic and data during power loss, while the 64 MB flash memory stores firmware and application programs—ensuring no data loss or corruption.
Platform Benefits (RX7i Series):
The IC698CRE030 inherits the RX7i platform’s strengths, including:
-
Reliability: The RX7i system is the industry standard for industrial automation, with a proven track record of 24/7 operation in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.
-
Legacy Compatibility: Works with existing RX7i components (e.g., I/O modules, communication modules), reducing the cost of system upgrades.
-
Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O modules (e.g., analog inputs, digital outputs) to accommodate growing system demands (e.g., adding more sensors to a turbine control system).
IC698CRE030
Technical Specifications
-
Model Number: IC698CRE030 (Variant of RX7i Series)
-
Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
-
Product Type: Redundant Central Processing Unit (CPU)
-
Series: RX7i PACSystem (Industrial Automation)
-
Processor: 600 MHz Pentium-M microprocessor
-
Memory:
-
64 MB battery-backed RAM (retains data during power loss)
-
64 MB non-volatile flash (stores firmware/application programs)
-
-
Redundancy: Hot Standby (HSB) support (requires backup CPU and IC698RMX016 module)
-
Communication Ports:
-
2× RJ45 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports (auto-negotiated)
-
3× isolated serial ports (RS-232/RS-485)
-
-
Backplane Compatibility: VME64 standard (fits into RX7i I/O racks)
-
Operating Temperature: 0°C to +50°C (extendable to +60°C with fan tray)
-
Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
-
Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
-
Weight: ~0.5 kg (1.1 lbs)
-
Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Uninterrupted Uptime with Hot Standby Redundancy:
The IC698CRE030’s hot standby redundancy ensures that if the primary CPU fails (e.g., due to hardware malfunction or power loss), the backup CPU takes over immediately—preventing process interruptions. This is critical for applications like power generation, where a brief outage can result in millions of dollars in losses.
2. High-Speed Processing for Time-Sensitive Processes:
The 600 MHz Pentium-M microprocessor and fast logic execution (<0.069 ms per 1000 Boolean contacts) enable the IC698CRE030 to handle time-sensitive processes (e.g., turbine speed control, chemical dosing) with precision—ensuring optimal process efficiency and product quality.
3. Flexible Communication for Legacy & Modern Systems:
The dual Ethernet ports and three isolated serial ports allow the IC698CRE030 to integrate with both modern HMI/SCADA systems (via Ethernet) and legacy devices (via RS-232/RS-485)—eliminating the need for additional converters and reducing installation costs.
4. Data Integrity & Reliability:
The 64 MB battery-backed RAM and 64 MB flash memory ensure that logic and data are retained during power loss—preventing data corruption and ensuring that the system restarts correctly after a power outage.
5. Easy Integration with RX7i Ecosystem:
The IC698CRE030 fits into standard RX7i I/O racks and works with existing RX7i components (e.g., I/O modules, communication modules)—reducing the cost of system upgrades and minimizing downtime during installation.
IC698CRE030
Typical Applications
The GE IC698CRE030 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
-
Power Generation:
-
Controls turbine speed, fuel flow, and generator output in gas/steam turbine power plants—ensuring stable power output and preventing turbine damage.
-
-
Petrochemical Industry:
-
Manages valve positioning, flow rates, and temperature loops in refineries—ensuring safe and efficient operation of catalytic cracking units and distillation columns.
-
-
Manufacturing:
-
Controls assembly line equipment (e.g., robotic arms, conveyor belts) in automotive and electronics manufacturing—ensuring precise and efficient production.
-
-
Water Treatment:
-
Manages pump and valve control in water treatment plants—ensuring proper flow and quality of treated water.
-
