Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
When a process plant adds new transmitters, replacing the entire PLC analog subsystem is rarely the preferred solution. The GE IC697ALG440 provides a practical way to increase analog input capacity by expanding an existing Series 90-70 high-level analog input system without redesigning the control cabinet.
Designed specifically as a current input expander, the IC697ALG440 works alongside a compatible Analog Base Converter module, providing sixteen additional 4–20 mA input channels with software configuration and high-resolution signal conversion for demanding industrial applications.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc / Emerson |
| Model | IC697ALG440 |
| Product Family | Series 90-70 |
| Module Type | Current Input Expander |
| Number of Inputs | 16 Differential Current Inputs |
| Input Signal | 4–20 mA Current Loop |
| Resolution | 16-bit (0.5 µA per LSB typical) |
| Accuracy | ±0.07% Full Scale, ±0.1% of Reading |
| Update Rate | Approximately 2.4 ms |
| Backplane Supply | 5 VDC |
| Power Consumption | 0.4 A (Approximately 2 W) |
| Configuration | Software Configurable (No Jumpers or DIP Switches) |
| Terminal Connection | Removable Terminal Board |
| Compatible System | Series 90-70 Analog Input Subsystem with Base Converter Module |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
During a refinery instrumentation upgrade, engineers installed dozens of additional pressure transmitters to improve compressor monitoring. The existing PLC rack had sufficient CPU capacity but lacked available analog input channels.
Rather than replacing the complete analog subsystem, the maintenance team added an IC697ALG440 Current Expander to the existing analog base converter. The additional channels were configured through programming software, existing wiring practices remained unchanged, and the project was completed during a scheduled maintenance outage without expanding the PLC rack.
Typical applications include:
- Compressor suction and discharge pressure monitoring
- Boiler feedwater flow transmitter acquisition
- Continuous chemical reactor instrumentation
- Large water treatment facilities with numerous 4–20 mA field transmitters
IC697ALG440
IC697ALG440
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every New Surplus and professionally refurbished IC697ALG440 completes a documented inspection process before shipment.
- Housing, PCB, and connector inspection.
- Power-up verification using a compatible Series 90-70 analog subsystem.
- Individual channel current injection testing.
- A/D conversion accuracy verification across multiple input levels.
- Backplane communication confirmation.
- LED and diagnostic status verification.
- Extended functional burn-in under simulated operating conditions.
- Final ESD-safe packaging and serial number documentation.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ This Module Is Not a Standalone Analog Card
The IC697ALG440 is an expander module, not a complete analog input module. It must operate with a compatible Series 90-70 Analog Base Converter. Installing it alone will not provide analog input capability.
⚠️ Check Current Loop Wiring Carefully
Many “failed module” service calls are eventually traced to open current loops, incorrect transmitter power supplies, or reversed field wiring. Always verify loop current before replacing hardware.
PRO TIP:
Document the channel mapping before replacing an expander module. Although software configuration eliminates DIP switches and jumpers, incorrect field wiring assignments can significantly increase commissioning time.
⚠️ Understand Expansion Limits
A complete analog subsystem supports multiple expander modules, but the total number of analog channels is determined by the base converter architecture. Confirm subsystem capacity before planning future expansion.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. Is the a complete analog input module?
No. It is a Current Input Expander Module that must be installed with a compatible Series 90-70 Analog Base Converter to create a complete analog input subsystem.
Q2. How many analog channels does the module provide?
The adds 16 current input channels for standard 4–20 mA instrumentation signals.
Q3. Are hardware jumpers required for configuration?
No. Channel configuration is completed through software, eliminating the need for jumpers or DIP switches and simplifying maintenance and replacement.
Q4. Is New Surplus inventory genuine?
Yes. New Surplus units are authentic OEM inventory that has never been installed in production service. Every module is inspected for part number verification, connector condition, and overall physical integrity before shipment.
Q5. How are refurbished modules tested?
Each refurbished unit undergoes power-up verification, analog input accuracy testing, current loop simulation, backplane communication testing, diagnostic verification, and extended operational burn-in before release.
Q6. Can this module be used in PACSystems RX3i?
Not directly. The is designed for the Series 90-70 analog input subsystem. For RX3i migration projects, Emerson recommends using compatible RX3i analog modules and migration adapters where appropriate.
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