Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
Temperature measurement errors rarely originate from the thermocouple itself. More often, electrical noise, ground loops, or poor channel isolation are responsible for unstable process readings. The GE IC695ALG306 addresses these issues by providing six individually isolated thermocouple inputs, minimizing interference between measurement channels.
Designed for PACSystems RX3i controllers, the module supports multiple thermocouple types, software-based configuration, and configurable filtering. It is commonly installed in process industries where reliable temperature acquisition directly affects product quality and equipment protection.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc / Emerson |
| Model | IC695ALG306 |
| Product Family | PACSystems RX3i |
| Module Type | Isolated Thermocouple Input |
| Number of Channels | 6 Individually Isolated Differential Inputs |
| Supported Sensors | J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N, C Thermocouples |
| Voltage Measurement | ±50 mV, ±150 mV |
| Update Time | Configurable from 15 ms to 120 ms |
| Data Format | 16-bit Integer or 32-bit IEEE Floating Point |
| Isolation | Channel-to-Channel and Field-to-Backplane Isolation |
| Installation | Single Slot, RX3i Universal Backplane |
| CPU Requirement | RX3i CPU Firmware Version 5.5 or Later |
| Configuration Software | PAC Machine Edition Logic Developer-PLC |
| Hot Swap | Supports Removal and Insertion Under Power (RIUP) |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A specialty chemicals manufacturer struggled with inconsistent reactor temperature readings during batch production. Operators initially suspected faulty thermocouples, but field diagnostics revealed electrical interference caused by several high-power variable frequency drives installed nearby.
Replacing an older shared-input module with the IC695ALG306 immediately stabilized all temperature channels. Because each input is electrically isolated, the new module eliminated cross-channel interference, reducing unnecessary process interruptions and restoring confidence in reactor temperature control.
Typical application scenarios include:
- Catalytic cracking unit temperature monitoring
- Continuous furnace zone temperature control
- Pharmaceutical reactor batch processing
- Glass furnace thermal profiling
- Heat treatment furnace monitoring for aerospace components
IC695ALG306
IC695ALG306
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every New Surplus and professionally refurbished IC695ALG306 is processed through a documented quality verification procedure.
- Housing, connector, and PCB inspected for physical damage.
- Backplane communication verified using an RX3i test rack.
- Each thermocouple channel tested for input accuracy.
- Isolation performance checked between channels and backplane.
- Cold Junction Compensation (CJC) circuitry verified.
- LED indicators and module diagnostics confirmed.
- Firmware revision and hardware revision documented.
- Final ESD-safe packaging completed before shipment.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Don’t Mix Thermocouple Types
Every input channel is independently configurable. If the PLC configuration specifies a Type K sensor while the field device is actually Type J, temperature readings can be significantly inaccurate without generating an obvious module fault.
⚠️ Never Ignore Cold Junction Compensation
Many engineers replace thermocouples when the actual problem is a damaged or improperly installed CJC sensor or terminal block. Verify the compensation hardware before replacing the module.
PRO TIP:
Select the filter frequency based on the application. Fast filters provide quicker response but allow more electrical noise, while slower filters improve measurement stability for furnace and reactor applications.
⚠️ Confirm CPU Firmware Compatibility
The IC695ALG306 requires an RX3i CPU with the appropriate firmware revision and compatible PAC Machine Edition software. Installing the module into an older system without verifying firmware compatibility may prevent proper configuration.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What sensors can the IC695ALG306 accept?
The module supports Type J, K, T, E, R, S, B, N, and C thermocouples, as well as ±50 mV and ±150 mV voltage inputs for specialized measurement applications.
Q2. Are the six channels electrically isolated?
Yes. Each of the six differential input channels is individually isolated, helping minimize electrical noise and preventing interference between measurement points.
Q3. Can this module be replaced while the PLC remains powered?
Yes. The supports Removal and Insertion Under Power (RIUP) when installed in a properly configured PACSystems RX3i system. Operational procedures should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q4. Is New Surplus inventory genuine?
Yes. New Surplus units are unused OEM inventory maintained under controlled warehouse conditions. Each module undergoes identification verification and visual inspection before shipment.
Q5. How are refurbished modules tested?
Refurbished modules are inspected, installed in an RX3i test platform, communication is verified, thermocouple channels are checked for functionality, and isolation performance is confirmed before release.
Q6. Does the module include a terminal block?
Terminal blocks are typically ordered separately. The is compatible with several RX3i box-style and spring-style terminal blocks, including extended versions for shielded wiring applications.
Start Chat
