Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
As production lines grow, the controller often becomes the limiting factor rather than the I/O hardware. Larger applications, increased data handling, and multiple communication interfaces require more processing power and memory than entry-level CPUs can provide.
The GE IC693CPU352 is one of the highest-capacity processors in the Series 90-30 family. Equipped with a 25 MHz Intel 80386EX processor, hardware floating-point support, configurable memory, and three integrated serial ports, it is well suited for complex machine control, process automation, and distributed PLC architectures that continue to operate in industrial facilities worldwide.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc (Emerson) |
| Model | IC693CPU352 |
| PLC Family | Series 90-30 |
| CPU Type | Single-slot CPU Module |
| Processor | Intel 80386EX |
| Processor Speed | 25 MHz |
| User Program Memory | 240 KB (Firmware 9.0 and later); 80 KB on earlier firmware |
| Typical Scan Rate | 0.22 ms per 1K Boolean logic |
| Maximum Discrete I/O | 2,048 Inputs / 2,048 Outputs |
| Analog Register Capacity | Up to 32,640 %AI and 32,640 %AQ words |
| Register Memory | Configurable up to 32,640 words |
| Built-in Communications | 3 Serial Ports (SNP, SNP-X, RTU Slave) |
| Floating-Point Math | Built-in hardware co-processor |
| Expansion Capacity | One CPU rack plus up to seven expansion and/or remote baseplates |
| Power Requirement | Approximately 890–910 mA @ +5 VDC |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A chemical blending facility expanded its batching system to include additional weighing stations and recipe management. After the upgrade, the original PLC processor began approaching its memory limits, and communication delays appeared whenever multiple operator terminals requested production data simultaneously.
Rather than redesigning the control system, engineers installed an IC693CPU352. The increased user memory and faster processing eliminated scan-time bottlenecks while preserving the existing Series 90-30 I/O infrastructure. The migration required only a scheduled shutdown and a verified application download.
Typical applications include:
- Multi-line batch blending systems
- Water treatment plants with distributed remote I/O
- High-speed packaging and palletizing equipment
IC693CPU352
IC693CPU352
IC693CPU352
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every CPU module is verified before shipment using a documented inspection procedure.
- ✔ Verify model number, firmware revision, and hardware identification.
- ✔ Inspect the PCB, backplane connector, serial ports, and key switch.
- ✔ Install the CPU in a compatible Series 90-30 rack with a qualified power supply.
- ✔ Execute a functional PLC application to verify processor performance, memory operation, and diagnostics.
- ✔ Test all three serial communication ports and confirm successful power cycling.
- ✔ Verify battery-backed memory retention and LED status indicators.
- ✔ Package the module in ESD-safe protective materials suitable for industrial transport.
For New Surplus inventory, unused condition and factory identification are confirmed. Refurbished units receive additional operational testing and burn-in verification.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Firmware Version Makes a Difference
Firmware Release 9.0 and later expands available user program memory from 80 KB to 240 KB. Loading a large application into an older CPU revision may fail even though the hardware appears identical.
⚠️ Don’t Forget the Hardware Configuration
Restoring ladder logic without downloading the hardware configuration can produce unexpected I/O faults, rack mismatches, or communication errors after startup.
PRO TIP: Before replacing the CPU, record the firmware revision and save the complete PLC project—including hardware configuration and communication parameters. This significantly reduces commissioning time during installation.
⚠️ Check the Power Supply Before Replacing the Processor
Watchdog faults, spontaneous resets, and communication failures are frequently caused by unstable +5 VDC backplane power rather than a defective CPU.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What distinguishes the IC693CPU352 from earlier Series 90-30 CPUs?
The IC693CPU352 offers a 25 MHz 80386EX processor, hardware floating-point capability, three built-in serial ports, and up to 240 KB of configurable user memory, making it one of the most capable CPUs in the Series 90-30 family.
Q2. How many expansion racks can the CPU support?
The controller supports one CPU baseplate plus up to seven expansion and/or remote baseplates, allowing large distributed I/O systems to be implemented.
Q3. Does the IC693CPU352 support floating-point calculations?
Yes. The CPU includes a built-in hardware floating-point co-processor, making it suitable for applications involving PID control, engineering calculations, and analog process variables.
Q4. Which programming software supports this CPU?
The controller can be configured using Logicmaster 90, VersaPro, or Proficy Machine Edition, depending on the project requirements and firmware revision.
Q5. Are New Surplus modules genuinely unused?
Yes. New Surplus units are unused OEM inventory that has never been installed in an operating system. Each module is inspected for physical condition, connector integrity, and identification before shipment.
Q6. Can older revisions be upgraded?
Yes. Earlier hardware revisions can be upgraded using GE firmware upgrade kits, provided the hardware revision is compatible with the target firmware release. Always verify revision compatibility before performing an upgrade.
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