Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
When a production line depends on deterministic scan times and continuous operation, replacing the CPU is rarely a routine maintenance task. The GE IC697CPX928 was designed for demanding Series 90-70 applications where processing performance, memory capacity, and communication flexibility are equally important.
Powered by a 96 MHz 32-bit processor, the IC697CPX928 supports floating-point calculations, large application programs, distributed I/O, and multiple intelligent communication modules. It remains a common replacement CPU in facilities that continue operating mature Series 90-70 control systems.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc / Emerson |
| Model | IC697CPX928 |
| Product Family | Series 90-70 |
| CPU Type | Floating Point Central Processing Unit |
| Processor | 96 MHz Intel 80486DX4 (32-bit) |
| User Memory | 6 MB Battery-Backed RAM |
| Flash Memory | 256 KB Non-Volatile User Flash |
| Instruction Speed | 0.4 μs per Boolean Instruction |
| Maximum Discrete I/O | 12,000 Points |
| Maximum Analog I/O | 8,000 Points |
| Serial Ports | 1 × RS-232, 2 × RS-485 |
| Backplane | VME C.1 Standard |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C (Forced Air), 0°C to 50°C (Natural Convection) |
| Current Consumption | 3.1 A @ 5 VDC |
| Battery | IC697ACC701 Lithium Battery |
| Installation | Slot 1 of Rack 0 Only |
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
An automotive stamping plant experienced increasing scan times after adding several vision inspection stations to an existing Series 90-70 PLC. Rather than redesigning the control architecture, engineers upgraded the processor to an IC697CPX928 while retaining the existing I/O racks and communication modules.
The additional processing power and larger memory accommodated the expanded control logic without requiring extensive field rewiring. Production resumed after a scheduled shutdown, and scan time returned to acceptable levels while preserving the original automation investment.
Typical applications include:
- Automotive body assembly sequencing
- Steel rolling mill automation
- High-speed conveyor and material handling systems
- Chemical batch processing with floating-point calculations
- Large municipal water treatment facilities using distributed I/O and Genius networks

IC697CPX928

IC697CPX928
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
Every New Surplus and refurbished IC697CPX928 follows a documented verification process before shipment.
- ✔ Visual inspection of PCB, housing, connectors, and backplane interface
- ✔ CPU startup diagnostics in a Series 90-70 test rack
- ✔ Battery-backed RAM retention testing
- ✔ Flash memory verification
- ✔ RS-232 and both RS-485 serial port communication testing
- ✔ Processor load and scan cycle verification
- ✔ Extended burn-in under simulated PLC workloads
- ✔ Final ESD-safe packaging with serial number traceability
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Install It Only in Slot 1
The IC697CPX928 is designed exclusively for Slot 1 of Rack 0. Installing it in any other position will prevent the PLC from operating correctly.
⚠️ Replace the Battery the Right Way
GE recommends connecting the replacement IC697ACC701 battery before disconnecting the old battery whenever possible. Ignoring this step can result in loss of battery-backed memory and application data.
PRO TIP:
A CPU that remains in STOP mode isn’t always defective. Before replacing the processor, verify memory protection settings, battery condition, firmware compatibility, and application integrity. These issues account for many field service calls.
⚠️ Cooling Requirements Matter
The processor can operate without forced air only within a reduced temperature range. Cabinets with high ambient temperatures should retain the original rack fan assembly to prevent intermittent CPU faults.
Dynamic FAQ
Q1. What processor is used in the ?
The is built around a 96 MHz Intel 80486DX4 32-bit processor with floating-point capability, making it one of the highest-performance CPUs available for the Series 90-70 platform.
Q2. How much application memory is available?
The CPU provides 6 MB of battery-backed RAM for user programs and data, along with 256 KB of non-volatile Flash memory for firmware and user storage.
Q3. How many serial communication ports are built into the CPU?
The module includes three integrated serial ports: one RS-232 port and two RS-485 ports for programming, diagnostics, and serial communications.
Q4. Is New Surplus inventory authentic?
Yes. New Surplus modules are genuine OEM products that have never been installed in production systems. Each unit is inspected for part number accuracy, connector integrity, and physical condition before shipment.
Q5. What tests are performed on refurbished CPUs?
Refurbished units undergo processor diagnostics, RAM and Flash verification, serial communication testing, battery retention testing, backplane communication verification, and extended operational burn-in before release.
Q6. Which I/O systems are compatible with the ?
The supports IC697 discrete and analog I/O, IC660/IC661 Genius I/O, LAN interface modules, communication processors, coprocessors, and other intelligent Series 90-70 option modules through the VME backplane.




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