Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
Mixed-voltage control systems remain common in industrial facilities, especially where legacy equipment has been expanded over many years. A relay output module offers the flexibility to switch both AC and DC loads without redesigning existing field wiring.
The GE IC693MDL940L is a 16-point normally open relay output module for the Series 90-30 PLC platform. With four isolated output groups and 2 A switching capacity per channel, it is well suited for controlling motor starters, solenoid valves, relays, alarm devices, and indicator lamps across a wide range of industrial automation applications.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc (Emerson) |
| Model | IC693MDL940L |
| PLC Family | Series 90-30 |
| Module Type | Normally Open Relay Output |
| Number of Outputs | 16 |
| Output Arrangement | Four groups of four outputs |
| Relay Contact Type | Form A (Normally Open) |
| Operating Voltage | 5–30 VDC or 5–250 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Rated Voltage | 24 VDC, 120/240 VAC Nominal |
| Maximum Output Load | 2 A per output |
| Maximum Common Current | 4 A per common |
| Minimum Load | 10 mA |
| Maximum Inrush Current | 5 A |
| ON Response Time | 15 ms maximum |
| OFF Response Time | 15 ms maximum |
| Isolation | 1500 VAC field-to-backplane; 500 VAC between groups |
| Backplane Current | 7 mA @ 5 VDC; 135 mA @ 24 VDC relay bus |
| LED Indicators | One green LED per output |
| Installation | Any compatible Series 90-30 I/O slot |
| Internal Fuse | None |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A chemical blending system required one PLC rack to control 24 VDC solenoid valves, 120 VAC alarm horns, and several 240 VAC contactor coils. Replacing the mixed-voltage field wiring would have significantly increased shutdown time.
Instead, engineers installed an IC693MDL940L, assigning each relay group to the appropriate voltage circuit. Because the relay contacts are electrically isolated by group, the existing wiring remained intact. The upgrade was completed during a planned maintenance window, allowing production to resume without rewiring the field devices.
Typical application scenarios include:
- Batch mixing skid motor starter control
- Industrial burner management alarm outputs
- Packaging machinery with mixed AC/DC actuator control
IC693MDL940L
IC693MDL940L
IC693MDL940L
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Each module follows a documented inspection and verification process before shipment.
- Verify catalog number, hardware revision, and relay identification.
- Inspect relay contacts, terminal connections, housing, and backplane connector.
- Install the module in a Series 90-30 test rack.
- Test every relay output using both AC and DC loads.
- Verify LED indication, contact switching performance, and response time.
- Perform repeated switching cycles under rated loads.
- Package the module in ESD-safe protective materials.
New Surplus inventory is inspected for original unused condition. Refurbished units complete additional relay endurance and functional load testing before shipment.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Watch the Common Current Limit
Each relay output can switch 2 A, but each common terminal is limited to 4 A. Several outputs driving large loads simultaneously can exceed the common rating even though each individual output remains within specification.
⚠️ There Is No Internal Fuse
The IC693MDL940L does not provide built-in fuse protection. External branch circuit protection should always be installed according to the connected load and applicable electrical codes.
PRO TIP: Install RC snubbers or surge suppressors across inductive loads such as contactors and solenoid valves. Reducing switching transients significantly extends relay contact life and minimizes electrical noise.
⚠️ Not Intended for High-Speed Switching
Relay outputs require approximately 15 ms to energize and release. They are suitable for conventional machine control but should not be used for pulse generation, PWM, or motion control applications.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What is the primary function of the IC693MDL940L?
The module provides 16 normally open relay outputs for switching AC or DC field devices such as motor starters, solenoid valves, relays, and indicator lamps.
Q2. Can the IC693MDL940L switch both AC and DC loads?
Yes. Each relay output can switch 5–30 VDC or 5–250 VAC, making the module suitable for mixed-voltage control systems.
Q3. How are the outputs organized?
The module contains 16 outputs divided into four isolated groups of four, with each group sharing a common terminal for field wiring.
Q4. Does the module include fuse protection?
No. The does not incorporate internal output fuses. Appropriate external circuit protection should be provided by the control system designer.
Q5. Is the compatible with all Series 90-30 baseplates?
Yes. The module can be installed in any compatible I/O slot of a Series 90-30 baseplate, provided sufficient backplane power is available. It is also supported in compatible PACSystems RX3i systems using the appropriate hardware.
Q6. How are New Surplus and Refurbished modules validated?
New Surplus modules undergo inspection for model verification, connector integrity, and physical condition. Refurbished units receive additional relay load testing, output verification, LED diagnostics, communication checks, and repeated operational testing before shipment.
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