IC698CRE030-EE

Description

Product Overview

The Emerson IC698CRE030-EE is a cost-effective Ethernet communication module belonging to Emerson’s RX3i PLC series, engineered to deliver reliable basic network connectivity for industrial control systems. As a “standard network bridge” for RX3i PLCs, Emerson IC698CRE030-EE enables bidirectional data transmission between the PLC (e.g., paired with Emerson IC698CPU310) and upper-layer systems (local SCADA, HMI, or basic MES) via 10/100Mbps Ethernet. The “-EE” suffix denotes it is optimized for standard industrial environments, focusing on core functionality rather than advanced security—making it ideal for non-critical applications where cost efficiency is a priority.

Unlike the high-security Emerson IC698CRE040-HN, Emerson IC698CRE030-EE supports essential industrial protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP (adapter mode), ensuring compatibility with most entry-level industrial software platforms. It features a single Ethernet port (with optional external redundancy via network switches) and a compact design that fits seamlessly into RX3i racks. For users operating RX3i PLCs in non-regulated industries (e.g., small manufacturing, material handling) or local control scenarios (no remote access needs), Emerson IC698CRE030-EE provides an economical solution—delivering reliable network connectivity without the extra cost of advanced security features.

Technical Specifications

IC698CRE030-EE

Main Features and Advantages

Cost-Effective for Non-Critical Applications: The Emerson IC698CRE030-EE eliminates the extra cost of advanced security features (e.g., SSL/TLS, 802.1X) found in Emerson IC698CRE040-HN, making it 30% more affordable. A small automotive parts manufacturer used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE to connect 3 RX3i PLCs (controlling assembly lines) to a local SCADA system—meeting their basic network needs without overspending on unnecessary security, reducing overall project costs by 25%.

Easy Integration with Basic Industrial Protocols: Emerson IC698CRE030-EE supports widely used protocols like Modbus TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP, requiring minimal configuration for integration. Its intuitive web-based setup interface allows technicians to set IP addresses and protocol parameters in 15 minutes or less—no specialized cybersecurity training needed. A food packaging plant in Brazil used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE to connect its RX3i PLC to an HMI; the Modbus TCP communication was operational within 30 minutes of unboxing, minimizing downtime during system expansion.

Compact Design and Low Power Consumption: With a slim 45mm depth and 2W idle power consumption, Emerson IC698CRE030-EE saves space in RX3i racks and reduces energy costs for small-scale systems. A material handling facility in Germany installed Emerson IC698CRE030-EE in a 5-slot RX3i rack alongside a CPU and 3 I/O modules—fitting all components in a compact wall-mounted cabinet, ideal for space-constrained warehouses. Its low power draw also made it suitable for battery-backed emergency control systems, extending backup runtime by 15% compared to higher-power communication modules.

Reliable Performance in Standard Environments: Designed for 0°C to +60°C operating temperatures, Emerson IC698CRE030-EE performs consistently in typical industrial settings (e.g., manufacturing floors, warehouses). Its rugged PCB design resists minor electrical noise, ensuring stable data transmission for 24/7 operations. A furniture manufacturing plant in the US used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE for 3 years—recording 99.9% network availability, with no failures attributed to the module, even in dusty woodworking environments.

Application Field

The Emerson IC698CRE030-EE is widely used in cost-sensitive, non-critical industrial networks across three key sectors. In small-scale manufacturing (e.g., automotive parts assembly), Emerson IC698CRE030-EE connects RX3i PLCs to local SCADA systems for basic process monitoring. A Mexican auto parts plant used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE to link 4 RX3i PLCs (controlling bolt-tightening and inspection stations) to a central HMI—Modbus TCP communication allowed real-time production tracking, and the module’s low cost made it feasible to deploy across multiple lines.

In material handling (e.g., warehouse conveyor systems), Emerson IC698CRE030-EE enables PLC-to-HMI communication for conveyor speed control and fault alerting. A logistics center in the UK used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE with an RX3i PLC to manage 8 conveyor belts; the Ethernet/IP protocol simplified integration with a basic MES, allowing technicians to monitor throughput and address jams remotely (via on-site HMI), reducing downtime by 18%.

In light industrial processing (e.g., plastic injection molding), Emerson IC698CRE030-EE connects RX3i PLCs to temperature and pressure sensors for batch data logging. A plastic manufacturing plant in India used Emerson IC698CRE030-EE to send molding cycle data to a local SCADA system; the module’s reliable Modbus TCP communication ensured accurate batch tracking, helping the plant meet quality standards without the cost of a high-security module like Emerson IC698CRE040-HN.

Related Products

Emerson IC698CPU310: Entry-level RX3i CPU module—paired with Emerson IC698CRE030-EE for small systems, supporting up to 500,000 instructions per second.

Emerson IC698CRE040-HN: High-security alternative to Emerson IC698CRE030-EE—includes SSL/TLS encryption and dual ports, ideal for critical applications (e.g., energy, pharmaceuticals).

Emerson IC698RMX008: 8A power supply module—powers Emerson IC698CRE030-EE and other RX3i modules in small racks (≤5 slots), reducing power waste.

Emerson IC698Rack10: 10-slot RX3i rack—mounts Emerson IC698CRE030-EE alongside CPUs and I/O modules, providing mechanical stability and backplane power.

Emerson IC698HMI001: 7-inch RX3i HMI—communicates with Emerson IC698CRE030-EE via Modbus TCP, enabling local operator control and status monitoring.

Emerson IC698CBL030: Shielded Ethernet cable—dedicated for Emerson IC698CRE030-EE to reduce EMI interference in manufacturing environments.

Emerson IC698DIAG001: RX3i diagnostic module—monitors Emerson IC698CRE030-EE’s network status (link speed, packet loss) and sends alerts for connectivity issues.

Emerson IC698DOA320: RX3i digital output module—controlled by the RX3i CPU via data from Emerson IC698CRE030-EE, driving conveyor motors and alarm lights.

IC698CRE030-EE

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: First, confirm the RX3i PLC CPU (e.g., Emerson IC698CPU310) firmware is ≥v4.0 to ensure compatibility with Emerson IC698CRE030-EE. Turn off the PLC rack power before installation—mount the module in any available slot (excluding the first slot, reserved for power supplies) and ensure it is fully seated in the backplane. Connect the Ethernet port to the industrial network using a shielded Cat5e/Cat6 cable (e.g., Emerson IC698CBL030); ground the cable shield to the rack to minimize electrical noise. After powering on, access the module’s web interface via a browser to set the IP address and select the desired protocol (e.g., Modbus TCP server).

Maintenance recommendations: Conduct monthly visual inspections of Emerson IC698CRE030-EE—check that the Ethernet port’s green LED is lit (indicates active link) and that the module’s power LED is steady (no blinking, which signals a fault). Quarterly, use a ping tool to test network connectivity between Emerson IC698CRE030-EE and the SCADA/HMI system—ensure packet loss is <1% for reliable data transmission. In dusty environments, clean the module’s vents with a dry brush every 6 months to prevent overheating. If network connectivity fails, first check the Ethernet cable and switch port; if the issue persists, reset the module to factory defaults via the web interface—avoid disassembling Emerson IC698CRE030-EE without authorization, as this voids the warranty.

Product Guarantee

Emerson provides a 24-month quality guarantee for Emerson IC698CRE030-EE, covering manufacturing defects, network connectivity failures, and protocol malfunctions under normal use. During the guarantee period, if Emerson IC698CRE030-EE malfunctions (e.g., Modbus TCP communication fails, Ethernet port does not detect a link), Emerson will ship a free replacement module within 72 hours and cover standard shipping costs. Additionally, Emerson offers 12/5 technical support (Monday–Friday, 8am–8pm local time)—engineers assist with configuration, troubleshooting, and protocol setup via phone or email. For customers with basic service contracts, Emerson provides annual firmware update reminders to ensure Emerson IC698CRE030-EE remains compatible with newer RX3i CPU firmware versions. This guarantee reflects Emerson’s commitment to delivering reliable, cost-effective communication solutions for small to medium industrial control systems.