Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
A PLC can execute control logic perfectly yet still fail to exchange data with HMIs, SCADA servers, or engineering workstations if the communication interface becomes the bottleneck. The GE IC697CMM742 addresses that challenge by providing dedicated Ethernet connectivity for the Series 90-70 platform.
As a Type 2 Ethernet Interface, the module supports TCP/IP communication, online programming, Ethernet Global Data, and comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. Its multiple physical Ethernet media options make it especially valuable when maintaining or upgrading legacy industrial networks.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc / Emerson |
| Model | IC697CMM742 |
| Product Family | Series 90-70 |
| Module Type | Ethernet Interface (Type 2) |
| Rack Requirement | Series 90-70 CPU Rack |
| Ethernet Standards | IEEE 802.3 Ethernet |
| Network Ports | 10BaseT (RJ-45), 10Base2 (BNC), AUI (15-pin) |
| Active Network Port | One port active at a time (automatic selection) |
| Serial Ports | RS-232 Station Manager, RS-485 Software Load |
| Supported Services | SRTP, Ethernet Global Data (EGD), PLC Programming |
| Firmware | Flash Upgradable via RS-485 |
| Maximum Modules per CPU Rack | Up to 4 |
| Configuration Software | Logicmaster 90 / IC641 Programming Software |
| Status Indicators | MODULE OK, LAN ONLINE, SERIAL ACTIVE, STATUS |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A municipal water treatment facility was modernizing its SCADA infrastructure while retaining proven Series 90-70 controllers. Operators needed continuous access to process data without replacing the existing PLC hardware.
By installing the IC697CMM742, engineers connected the PLC directly to the plant Ethernet network, allowing SCADA servers, engineering workstations, and maintenance laptops to communicate through standard TCP/IP services. The upgrade eliminated serial communication bottlenecks while preserving the existing control strategy.
Typical application scenarios include:
- Water treatment SCADA communication networks
- Steel mill production monitoring systems
- Continuous process historian data collection
- Legacy Series 90-70 integration with Ethernet-based supervisory systems
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every New Surplus and professionally refurbished IC697CMM742 is processed through a documented quality verification procedure.
- Mechanical inspection of housing, PCB, and communication connectors.
- Installation verification in a Series 90-70 CPU rack.
- Ethernet communication testing through RJ-45, BNC, and AUI interfaces.
- RS-232 Station Manager and RS-485 service port verification.
- Firmware identification and communication diagnostics.
- LED indicator functionality confirmation.
- Continuous communication burn-in using Ethernet Global Data and SRTP traffic simulation.
- Final ESD-safe packaging with serial number traceability.
IC697CMM742
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Only One Ethernet Port Operates at a Time
Although the module includes three physical network connectors, they are alternative media connections—not three independent Ethernet channels. The module automatically selects the active interface.
⚠️ Check CPU Firmware Before Installation
The Type 2 Ethernet Interface is fully supported by Series 90-70 CPU firmware Version 6.00 and later. Earlier CPU firmware versions have operational restrictions and require alternate configuration procedures.
PRO TIP:
If online programming suddenly stops while Ethernet LEDs remain normal, inspect the network configuration, IP settings, and Station Manager diagnostics before replacing the communication module. In the field, configuration errors are considerably more common than hardware failures.
⚠️ Understand Legacy Network Media
Many installations still use ThinWire (10Base2) or AUI transceivers. Verify the existing plant network architecture before ordering replacement hardware to avoid connector mismatches.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What is the primary function of the IC697CMM742?
The IC697CMM742 provides TCP/IP Ethernet communications for Series 90-70 PLCs, supporting online programming, Ethernet Global Data (EGD), SRTP communications, and network diagnostics.
Q2. Which Ethernet connections are available?
The module includes 10BaseT (RJ-45), 10Base2 (BNC), and AUI (15-pin) network interfaces. Only one interface is active at any given time, and the module automatically detects the connected media.
Q3. Can firmware be upgraded in the field?
Yes. Firmware is stored in Flash memory and can be updated through the integrated RS-485 Software Load port without replacing the hardware.
Q4. Is New Surplus inventory genuine?
Yes. New Surplus modules are authentic OEM inventory that has never been installed in production equipment. Every unit is inspected for part number verification, connector condition, and physical integrity before shipment.
Q5. How are refurbished modules tested?
Each refurbished undergoes power-up verification, Ethernet communication testing, serial port validation, firmware inspection, LED diagnostics, and extended operational burn-in using a Series 90-70 PLC test platform.
Q6. How many Ethernet Interface modules can be installed in one PLC rack?
A Series 90-70 CPU rack supports up to four Ethernet Interface (Type 2) modules, depending on the overall system configuration and application requirements.
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