GE IC697CPX928-FE

Description

GE IC697CPX928-FE – CPU Module for Series 90-70 PLC

Product Description
The GE IC697CPX928-FE is a high-performance Central Processing Unit (CPU) module for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system. This module is the “brain” of the PLC rack, responsible for executing the user’s control program, managing system memory, handling internal diagnostics, and coordinating communication with other modules in the rack and external networks. The GE IC697CPX928-FE represents one of the more advanced and later-generation CPUs in the 90-70 lineup, offering enhanced processing speed and memory capacity. It is designed for demanding automation applications requiring complex logic, fast scan times, and robust communication capabilities in industrial environments such as manufacturing, process control, and infrastructure.

Product Parameters

• Type: Central Processing Unit (CPU) Module.

• PLC Series: GE Fanuc Series 90-70.

• Model Specifics: CPX928-FE.

  • CPX928: Indicates the processor type, speed, and memory configuration.

  • -FE: Suffix often denotes a specific feature set or regional version (e.g., may include different firmware or communication options).

• Memory:

  • User Logic Memory: Typically in the range of 256K to 1M bytes (exact size defined by the CPX928 spec).

  • Battery-Backed RAM: For retaining user program and data during power loss.

• Execution Speed: High-speed processor capable of fast Boolean and complex math instruction execution (e.g., 0.4 ms/K for Boolean).

• Built-in Communication Ports:

  • Serial Port (RS-232/RS-485): For programming (using SNP or SNPX protocol), connection to HMIs, or other serial devices.

  • Genius LAN Port: For connecting to the proprietary GE Genius bus, enabling high-speed deterministic communication with distributed I/O blocks (Genius I/O).

• I/O Capacity: Supports a large number of local and remote I/O points (typically thousands), limited by the backplane and network configuration.

• Programming Software: Programmed using GE’s Proficy Machine Edition (Logic Developer) or the legacy Logicmaster 90 software.

Advantages and Features

• High Performance for Legacy Systems: The GE IC697CPX928-FE provided significant processing power for its era, allowing complex control strategies, PID loops, and data handling within the mature and reliable Series 90-70 platform.

• Integrated Genius LAN Controller: The built-in Genius interface is a key strength, allowing the CPU to directly manage a high-speed, deterministic network of remote I/O (Genius blocks) without an additional communication module, simplifying distributed system architecture.

• Robust and Proven Architecture: The Series 90-70, with CPUs like the CPX928-FE, is known for its industrial ruggedness and longevity, with many systems still in operation decades after installation.

• Strong Diagnostic Capabilities: Features comprehensive self-diagnostics and system status reporting, aiding in troubleshooting and maintenance.

• Scalability: Could be used as a standalone controller or as part of a larger multi-CPU or hierarchical control system within the 90-70 family.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Automotive Manufacturing: Controlling transfer lines, robotic cells, and paint shops in large assembly plants.

• Material Handling: Managing complex conveyor sorting systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), and warehouse logistics.

• Food & Beverage Processing: Supervising batching systems, packaging lines, and pasteurization processes.

• Water/Wastewater Treatment: Automating filter backwash cycles, chemical feed systems, and pump control.

• Metal Production: Controlling rolling mills, annealing lines, and material handling in steel and aluminum plants.

Comparisons with Competing Products

• Earlier 90-70 CPUs (IC697CPU731, IC697CPX772): The IC697CPX928-FE is a more powerful and later model with more memory and faster processing than many of its predecessors within the same family.

• Contemporary Competitors (Siemens SIMATIC S5-115U, Allen-Bradley PLC-5/40): These were the main competitors in the same performance class during the 1990s/2000s. The 90-70 platform, with the CPX928-FE, competed on performance, the Genius I/O system, and its use in large-scale discrete manufacturing.

• Successor Platforms (GE PACSystems RX3i): Modern GE controllers offer significantly higher performance, standard Ethernet, and newer programming environments. The IC697CPX928-FE is a legacy component for supporting existing installations.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Verify as a Replacement Part: The GE IC697CPX928-FE is almost exclusively selected as a direct replacement for a failed CPU in an existing Series 90-70 system. Ensure the model number matches the original unit exactly.

2. Backup Program and Configuration FIRST: Before replacing any CPU, you must have a verified backup of the user program and configuration. Without this, the new CPX928-FE module will be empty and the machine inoperable.

3. Check Compatibility with Rack and Modules: Ensure the CPU is compatible with the specific Series 90-70 rack model (e.g., IC697CHS797) and that any installed special function modules (analog, communication) are supported by this CPU model.

4. Battery Replacement: A new or refurbished CPU may not include a battery. You will need to install a new lithium battery (e.g., type BR2335 or equivalent) to retain memory.

5. Firmware and Software Version: Be aware of the firmware version on the CPU and ensure your programming software (Proficy ME) is at a version that supports it for uploading/downloading programs.

6. Plan for Obsolescence: This is a legacy component. When sourcing a IC697CPX928-FE, consider using authorized refurbished channels and develop a long-term migration plan to a modern control platform for future sustainability.

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