Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
When production systems grow, controller memory often becomes the limiting resource before processor speed does. The GE IC695CPU320 was developed for PACSystems RX3i applications that require substantial user memory, fast execution, and compatibility with both modern RX3i modules and many legacy Series 90-30 I/O components.
Its 1 GHz processor, large memory capacity, dual-backplane architecture, and field-upgradable firmware make it well suited for complex automation projects that demand dependable performance and gradual system modernization.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Intelligent Platforms / Emerson |
| Model | IC695CPU320 |
| Product Family | PACSystems RX3i |
| Processor | 1 GHz Intel® Celeron® M |
| User Memory | 64 MB Battery-Backed RAM |
| Flash Memory | 64 MB Non-Volatile Flash |
| Embedded Communications | RS-232 and RS-485 |
| Supported Serial Protocols | SNP, Modbus RTU Slave, Serial I/O |
| Backplane Support | RX3i PCI Bus and Series 90-30 Serial Bus |
| Maximum Program Blocks | 512 |
| Maximum Program Block Size | 128 KB |
| Discrete I/O Capacity | Up to 32K Inputs / 32K Outputs |
| Analog Capacity | Up to 32K Analog Inputs / Outputs |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C |
| Firmware | Field Upgradeable |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
An automotive stamping facility expanded its production line by adding robotic transfer stations and multiple vision inspection systems. The existing PLC processor still had sufficient scan speed, but application memory had become nearly exhausted after years of incremental modifications.
Replacing the original controller with an IC695CPU320 provided additional memory for new production recipes, diagnostics, and communication functions without changing the installed RX3i rack or field wiring. The migration was completed during a scheduled maintenance window, allowing production to resume on schedule.
Typical applications include:
- Automotive body shop conveyor coordination
- Pulp and paper machine sequence control
- Continuous chemical processing
- High-speed packaging and palletizing systems
- Large municipal water treatment facilities with distributed I/O
IC695CPU320
IC695CPU320
IC695CPU320
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every New Surplus and professionally refurbished IC695CPU320 is subjected to a documented inspection procedure before shipment.
- Exterior housing, PCB, and connector inspection.
- Power-up verification in an RX3i Universal Backplane.
- CPU boot diagnostics and memory integrity testing.
- Battery-backed RAM retention verification.
- Flash memory read/write verification.
- RS-232 and RS-485 communication testing.
- Firmware identification and functional validation.
- Extended operational burn-in followed by ESD-safe packaging.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Don’t Assume More Memory Means Plug-and-Play
Although the IC695CPU320 offers significantly more memory than earlier CPUs, older programming software may not fully support its firmware. Always verify your Proficy Machine Edition version before commissioning.
⚠️ Battery Health Still Matters
The CPU stores application data in battery-backed RAM. A depleted battery may not affect normal operation immediately but can result in memory loss during extended power outages.
PRO TIP:
If you’re upgrading from an older RX3i processor, review firmware compatibility for Ethernet modules, intelligent I/O, and motion controllers before startup. Many commissioning delays are caused by mixed firmware revisions rather than CPU hardware.
⚠️ Verify Backplane Power Capacity
Higher-performance CPUs increase power consumption slightly. Confirm that the installed RX3i power supply has adequate capacity after adding communication and specialty modules.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What processor does the IC695CPU320 use?
The is equipped with a 1 GHz Intel Celeron M processor, providing high-speed execution for demanding PACSystems RX3i applications.
Q2. How much memory is available?
The CPU includes 64 MB of battery-backed RAM and 64 MB of non-volatile Flash memory, allowing large application programs, data tables, and symbolic variables.
Q3. Which communication ports are integrated?
The module provides one RS-232 port and one RS-485 port supporting SNP, Modbus RTU Slave, and Serial I/O protocols. Ethernet communication is available through compatible RX3i Ethernet interface modules.
Q4. Is New Surplus inventory genuine?
Yes. New Surplus units are authentic OEM inventory that has never been installed in production equipment. Every module is inspected to verify identification, physical condition, and packaging integrity before shipment.
Q5. How are refurbished CPUs tested?
Refurbished units undergo complete functional testing, including CPU diagnostics, RAM and Flash verification, serial communication testing, firmware validation, and extended burn-in before release.
Q6. Can the support existing Series 90-30 I/O?
Yes. The dual-backplane architecture supports PACSystems RX3i hardware while allowing compatibility with many Series 90-30 I/O modules, making it suitable for phased migration projects. Compatibility should always be confirmed for the specific hardware configuration before installation.
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