IC698CRE040-HN

Description

Product Overview

The Emerson IC698CRE040-HN is a high-security Ethernet communication module belonging to Emerson’s RX3i PLC series, engineered to provide reliable network connectivity for industrial control systems. As the “network gateway” of RX3i PLCs, Emerson IC698CRE040-HN enables bidirectional data transmission between the PLC (e.g., paired with Emerson IC698CPU330) and upper-layer systems (SCADA, MES, or cloud platforms) via 10/100Mbps Ethernet. The “-HN” suffix denotes enhanced security capabilities, including SSL/TLS encryption, 802.1X authentication, and role-based access control (RBAC)—addressing cybersecurity risks in industrial networks (e.g., unauthorized data access, man-in-the-middle attacks).

In mission-critical scenarios (e.g., oil refinery process control, smart grid substation automation), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN ensures secure, real-time data exchange. Unlike basic Ethernet modules (e.g., non-secure RX3i IC698CRE030), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN supports industrial protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP, DNP3.0, and OPC UA—compatible with most industrial software platforms. It also features dual Ethernet ports for network redundancy (ring topology support), minimizing downtime from network failures. For users operating RX3i PLCs in regulated industries (e.g., energy, pharmaceuticals) that require compliance with cybersecurity standards (IEC 62443), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN is an indispensable component, ensuring data integrity and network security while enabling remote monitoring and control.

Technical Specifications

IC698CRE040-HN

Main Features and Advantages

Enhanced Cybersecurity for Industrial Networks: The Emerson IC698CRE040-HN integrates enterprise-grade security features to protect against industrial cyber threats. SSL/TLS encryption secures data transmission between the PLC and SCADA system, while 802.1X authentication prevents unauthorized devices from accessing the network. A North American smart grid substation used Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to comply with NERC CIP standards—its RBAC feature restricted access to critical control data, reducing the risk of malicious tampering and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Dual-Port Redundancy for High Availability: Equipped with two Ethernet ports, Emerson IC698CRE040-HN supports network redundancy (e.g., ring topology, dual-star) to avoid single points of failure. If one network port or cable fails, the module automatically switches to the backup port within ≤100ms—ensuring uninterrupted data flow. A European chemical plant used this feature to connect its RX3i PLC (controlling a distillation unit) to a SCADA system; a accidental cable cut triggered an instant switchover, with no impact on process control or data logging.

Multi-Protocol Compatibility for Seamless Integration: Emerson IC698CRE040-HN supports a wide range of industrial protocols, eliminating the need for additional protocol converters. It communicates with Modbus-based SCADA systems, DNP3-enabled utility platforms, and OPC UA-compatible cloud services (e.g., Emerson Plantweb Optics) using a single module. A pharmaceutical manufacturer in Asia used Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to connect its RX3i PLC to both a local MES (via OPC UA) and a remote quality control system (via Modbus TCP), reducing integration costs by 35% compared to using two separate communication modules.

Wide Temperature Range for Harsh Environments: With an operating temperature range of -40°C to +70°C, Emerson IC698CRE040-HN performs reliably in extreme industrial conditions—from cold storage facilities to high-temperature refineries. Its rugged design includes a conformal-coated circuit board to resist moisture and chemical corrosion. A Russian oil refinery deployed Emerson IC698CRE040-HN in an outdoor control cabinet (winter temperatures as low as -35°C); the module maintained stable network connectivity for 2 years, with no performance degradation.

Application Field

The Emerson IC698CRE040-HN is widely used in secure, high-availability industrial networks across three key sectors. In energy and utilities (e.g., smart grid substations), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN connects RX3i PLCs to DNP3-based SCADA systems. Its IEC 62443 cybersecurity compliance and ATEX Zone 2 certification (optional) make it suitable for outdoor, hazardous environments. A North American utility company used Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to monitor and control 11kV substation equipment—SSL/TLS encryption protected sensitive grid data, and dual-port redundancy ensured 99.99% network availability.

In chemical and petrochemical processing (e.g., ethylene production lines), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN enables secure remote monitoring of critical processes. A German chemical plant paired it with an RX3i PLC (controlling a reactor system) and a cloud-based MES; OPC UA communication allowed real-time data sharing with headquarters, while the module’s firewall blocked unauthorized access attempts. During a cyber security audit, Emerson IC698CRE040-HN’s security features helped the plant meet ISO 27001 standards, avoiding non-compliance penalties.

In food and beverage manufacturing (e.g., dairy processing), Emerson IC698CRE040-HN connects RX3i PLCs to Modbus TCP SCADA systems for batch tracking and quality control. Its wide temperature range (-40°C to +70°C) adapts to cold storage areas (for raw milk) and high-temperature processing zones (for pasteurization). A Canadian dairy plant used Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to integrate 8 RX3i PLCs into a single SCADA system—dual-port redundancy prevented network outages during cleaning cycles, ensuring continuous production and reducing waste by 8%.

Related Products

Emerson IC698CPU330: RX3i high-performance CPU module—paired with Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to enable network communication, supporting up to 1 million instructions per second.

Emerson IC698CRE030: Basic Ethernet module (non-secure) for RX3i PLCs—lower-cost alternative to Emerson IC698CRE040-HN for non-critical applications (e.g., small packaging lines) with no enhanced security needs.

Emerson IC698PSA100: Redundant power supply adapter—powers Emerson IC698CRE040-HN and other RX3i modules via a redundant 24V DC system, ensuring uninterrupted network connectivity.

Emerson IC698Rack20: 20-slot RX3i rack—mounts Emerson IC698CRE040-HN alongside CPUs and I/O modules, providing mechanical stability and backplane power.

Emerson Plantweb Optics: Cloud-based asset management platform—communicates with Emerson IC698CRE040-HN via OPC UA, enabling remote monitoring of RX3i PLC performance and firmware updates.

Emerson IC698CBL030: Shielded Ethernet cable—dedicated for Emerson IC698CRE040-HN to reduce EMI interference, ideal for industrial environments with high electrical noise.

Emerson IC698DIAG001: RX3i diagnostic module—monitors Emerson IC698CRE040-HN’s network status (e.g., link speed, packet loss) and sends alerts for connectivity issues.

Emerson IC698DOA320: RX3i digital output module—controlled by the RX3i CPU via data received from Emerson IC698CRE040-HN, driving field actuators (e.g., valves, pumps) based on SCADA commands.

IC698CRE040-HN

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: First, confirm the RX3i PLC CPU (e.g., Emerson IC698CPU330) firmware is ≥v5.0 to ensure compatibility with Emerson IC698CRE040-HN. 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 one or both Ethernet ports to the industrial network using shielded Cat5e/Cat6 cables (e.g., Emerson IC698CBL030); ground the cable shields to the rack to reduce EMI. After powering on, use the RX3i Configuration Tool to set network parameters (IP address, subnet mask) and enable security features (SSL/TLS, 802.1X) via a password-protected interface.

Maintenance recommendations: Conduct monthly network health checks via the RX3i HMI or Plantweb Optics—verify Emerson IC698CRE040-HN’s link status (green LEDs for active ports), packet loss rate (<1%), and security log (no unauthorized access attempts). Quarterly, update the module’s firmware to the latest version (via Ethernet, no PLC shutdown required) to patch security vulnerabilities and add new features. In dusty or humid environments, clean the module’s vents with a dry brush every 6 months to maintain heat dissipation. If network connectivity fails, first check cable connections and switch status; if the issue persists, use the module’s built-in ping tool to diagnose network paths—avoid disassembling Emerson IC698CRE040-HN without authorization, as this voids the warranty.

Product Guarantee

Emerson provides a 36-month quality guarantee for Emerson IC698CRE040-HN, covering manufacturing defects, network connectivity failures, and security feature malfunctions under normal use. During the guarantee period, if Emerson IC698CRE040-HN malfunctions (e.g., SSL/TLS encryption fails, dual-port redundancy does not switch), Emerson will ship a free replacement module within 48 hours (for critical industries) and cover all shipping costs. Additionally, 24/7 global technical support is available—engineers assist with network configuration, security setup, and troubleshooting via phone, email, or remote access (using secure VPN). For customers with cybersecurity service contracts, Emerson offers annual security audits of Emerson IC698CRE040-HN—verifying encryption protocols, updating firewall rules, and ensuring compliance with IEC 62443. This guarantee reflects Emerson’s commitment to delivering secure, reliable communication solutions for industrial control systems.