Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
Production interruptions are not always caused by failed I/O hardware. In many mature Series 90-30 installations, declining CPU performance, memory faults, or aging firmware can be the root cause of intermittent machine stoppages and communication errors.
The GE IC693CPU350-EJ is a high-performance Series 90-30 CPU module intended for applications requiring faster scan times, expanded memory, and support for distributed I/O. Equipped with a 25 MHz 80386EX processor, floating-point capability, and 32 KB of user memory, it offers substantially greater processing performance than earlier CPU311 and CPU323 controllers while remaining compatible with existing Series 90-30 architectures. Firmware revision 10.74 is associated with the -EJ hardware revision and addresses maintenance updates for this controller family.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc (Emerson) |
| Model | IC693CPU350-EJ |
| PLC Series | Series 90-30 |
| CPU Type | Single-slot CPU Module |
| Processor | Intel 80386EX |
| Clock Speed | 25 MHz |
| User Program Memory | 32 KB RAM |
| Register Memory | 9,999 Words |
| Boolean Execution Speed | Approximately 0.22 ms per 1K logic |
| Maximum Discrete I/O | 2,048 Inputs / 2,048 Outputs |
| Analog Memory | 2,048 AI Words / 512 AQ Words |
| Timers/Counters | More than 2,000 |
| Floating-Point Math | Supported |
| Memory Backup | Battery-backed RAM with Flash storage |
| Communications | RS-485 programming port via compatible power supply |
| Maximum System Size | 8 total baseplates |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C |
| Power Consumption | 670 mA @ +5 VDC |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A steel processing facility experienced increasing production delays because an aging controller occasionally paused during complex recipe calculations. Operators initially suspected network latency, but diagnostics showed CPU utilization consistently approaching its limit during production changeovers.
Replacing the controller with an IC693CPU350-EJ restored normal scan performance without modifying the existing PLC program. After downloading the archived application and verifying the hardware configuration, communication with seven expansion racks returned to normal, and production resumed before the end of the scheduled maintenance window.
Typical application scenarios include:
- Continuous casting line automation
- High-speed packaging and palletizing systems
- Water treatment facilities with multiple remote I/O racks
IC693CPU350-EJ
IC693CPU350-EJ
IC693CPU350-EJ
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every CPU module follows a documented verification procedure before shipment.
- Confirm catalog number, firmware revision, and hardware identification.
- Inspect the PCB, backplane connector, battery compartment, and component integrity.
- Install the CPU in a compatible Series 90-30 rack with a supported power supply.
- Load a functional PLC application and verify processor execution, memory operation, and diagnostics.
- Test serial communications, power cycling, and battery-backed memory retention.
- Verify LED indicators and hardware self-diagnostics.
- Package the controller using ESD-safe materials and industrial-grade protective packaging.
For New Surplus inventory, factory labels and unused condition are verified. Refurbished units receive additional operational and burn-in testing before shipment.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Check the Backup Battery Before Condemning the CPU
Many “CPU failures” are actually the result of a depleted battery causing repeated memory loss after power outages. Verify battery voltage before replacing the processor.
⚠️ Confirm Firmware Compatibility
The -EJ revision is supplied with Firmware Release 10.74. Earlier CPU350 revisions may behave differently with certain communication or specialty modules, so always compare firmware revisions before installing a replacement.
PRO TIP: Archive the complete PLC project—including hardware configuration—before removing the existing CPU. Restoring only the ladder logic without the hardware configuration can produce I/O mismatch faults during startup.
⚠️ Inspect the Power Supply First
The CPU receives its operating power from the Series 90-30 backplane. An unstable +5 VDC supply can create symptoms that resemble processor failure, including watchdog faults, unexpected resets, and communication errors.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What type of controller is the IC693CPU350-EJ?
It is a single-slot high-performance CPU module for the GE Series 90-30 PLC platform, designed for medium and large automation systems requiring faster processing and larger memory capacity.
Q2. How much user memory does the IC693CPU350-EJ provide?
The controller includes 32 KB of user program memory, suitable for complex ladder logic, data handling, and floating-point calculations.
Q3. How many racks can this CPU support?
The CPU can manage up to eight baseplates, including one local CPU baseplate and up to seven expansion or remote baseplates, depending on the system configuration.
Q4. Does the IC693CPU350-EJ include an Ethernet port?
No. Native Ethernet is not built into the CPU. Ethernet, Genius, Profibus-DP, DeviceNet, and other industrial communication networks are added through compatible Series 90-30 communication modules.
Q5. What distinguishes the -EJ revision?
The -EJ hardware revision is associated with Firmware Release 10.74, which replaced an obsolete cache RAM component and incorporated maintenance improvements for the CPU350 family. Field firmware upgrades to version 10.74 are available only for compatible earlier hardware revisions.
Q6. Are New Surplus CPU modules tested before shipment?
Yes. Every New Surplus unit is inspected to verify identification labels, connector condition, and physical integrity. Refurbished modules undergo additional functional testing, memory verification, and processor diagnostics to confirm reliable operation before shipment.
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