GE HE693STP110

Description

Product Overview and Description

The GE HE693STP110 is a specialized interface module from GE Fanuc’s (now Emerson) 90-30 series of programmable logic controllers (PLCs). This module is a dual-port, fiber optic repeater, specifically designed to extend and interconnect Genius bus networks. The primary function of the GE HE693STP110 is to act as a signal repeater and bi-directional translator between copper-based Genius bus segments and fiber optic cable, thereby extending the network distance, enhancing noise immunity, and providing electrical isolation between segments. Within a 90-30 system, the Genius bus is a high-speed, peer-to-peer serial network used to communicate with distributed I/O blocks (Genius blocks) and other compatible devices. The integration of the GE HE693STP110 allows system designers to overcome the distance limitations of standard copper Genius cable and to run communications through electrically noisy areas or between different building grounds safely. Utilizing this module is a key strategy for building robust, large-scale distributed control networks with the 90-30 platform.

Product Parameters and Specifications

• Product Type: Genius Bus Fiber Optic Repeater / Interface Module

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): HE693STP110

• Brand: GE (Emerson, formerly GE Fanuc)

• Series: Series 90-30 PLC

• Compatibility: Genius Bus Network (I/O Bus for Series 90 PLCs).

• Ports:

  • Copper Port: One DB-9 connector for attachment to a standard copper Genius bus trunk.

  • Fiber Optic Ports: Two ST-type fiber optic connectors (transmit and receive) for connection to a duplex fiber optic cable.

• Function: Converts Genius bus electrical signals to optical signals and vice-versa. Regenerates (repeats) the signal for long-distance transmission.

• Fiber Type: Compatible with common multimode fiber optic cable (typically 62.5/125 µm or 50/125 µm).

• Operating Distance: Extends the Genius network up to several kilometers (specific distance depends on fiber type and quality), far beyond the 7500 ft. limit of copper.

• Data Rate: Supports the standard Genius bus data rate (153.6 kbps).

• Isolation: Provides complete electrical isolation between network segments, eliminating ground loop problems and protecting against voltage surges.

• Power Supply: Requires a 5V DC power source, typically drawn from a +5V rail on a compatible 90-30 power supply or a separate supply.

• Mounting: Can be mounted on a standard DIN rail.

• Status Indicators: LEDs for power, copper link activity, and fiber link activity.

Key Advantages and Features

The primary advantage of the GE HE693STP110 is its ability to dramatically increase the physical scope and robustness of a legacy Genius I/O network. By converting to fiber optics, it provides exceptional immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), which is critical in environments with heavy motor loads, welding equipment, or variable frequency drives. The electrical isolation feature prevents problems caused by differences in ground potential between buildings or equipment racks. The module is transparent to the Genius network protocol, requiring no configuration changes to the existing PLC program or Genius blocks. Its dual-port design allows it to be inserted in-line on a copper segment to create a fiber optic link. The use of the GE HE693STP110 is a reliable method to future-proof and strengthen the communication backbone of an installed base of Series 90-30 systems.

Application Scenarios and Use Cases

This module is used in industrial facilities with distributed processes that utilize the GE 90-30 PLC and Genius I/O system. Common applications include connecting a central control room 90-30 PLC to remote Genius I/O racks located in electrically noisy plant areas, such as near large motors in a pumping station or a manufacturing cell with robotic welders. It is also used to link control systems across separate buildings in a campus-style facility, like a wastewater treatment plant or a chemical complex, where long distances and separate grounding systems exist. In material handling systems spanning a large warehouse, the HE693STP110 can connect I/O for conveyors and sorters back to a central controller. Any application where the reliable, high-integrity data from Genius blocks is needed beyond the practical reach of copper cable is an ideal use case for this fiber optic repeater.

Comparison with Competing Products

The GE HE693STP110 competes with other legacy network extension solutions. Within the GE ecosystem, the alternative was to use multiple copper repeaters (HE693RPT100) with cascading distance limitations, making the fiber optic solution superior for long runs. For other PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley Remote I/O, Siemens PROFIBUS), competing products would be their respective fiber optic transceivers or media converters. The HE693STP110 is unique to the proprietary Genius bus protocol. Compared to modern Ethernet-based fiber converters, this module is for a specific, older serial network. Its value lies solely in extending the life and improving the reliability of existing Genius networks, not in new system designs where industrial Ethernet is the standard.

Selection Guidelines and Important Notes

Selection Advice:

1. Network Audit: Confirm the existing system uses a Series 90-30/90-70 PLC with a Genius bus. The HE693STP110 is not compatible with other GE networks like Profibus or Ethernet.

2. Distance and Environment: Use this module when the required cable run exceeds ~2000 feet (the practical reliable limit for copper Genius) or must traverse areas of extreme electrical noise.

3. Fiber Cable Specification: Purchase the correct duplex multimode fiber optic cable (typically OM1 62.5/125) with ST connectors. Ensure the total link loss (cable + connectors) is within the module’s budget for the desired distance.

4. Power Planning: The module requires a 5V DC, 500mA power source. Plan to provide this from the PLC rack’s auxiliary power or a separate, well-regulated supply.

Important Precautions:

• Handling Fiber Optics: Do not bend fiber cable sharply (maintain the minimum bend radius). Keep connectors clean and protected with dust caps when not in use. Contaminated connectors are the most common cause of failure.

• Power Supply Quality: Use a clean, regulated 5V DC supply. Voltage spikes or noise on the power input can cause communication errors.

• Proper Grounding: Even though the link is isolated, the local chassis of the HE693STP110 should be grounded according to good industrial practice.

• Network Termination: Remember that the Genius bus requires proper termination at both physical ends of the electrical segment. The fiber link appears as a single point in the electrical network; termination resistors are still needed on the copper trunks.

• LED Diagnostics: Use the status LEDs for troubleshooting. A lit “PWR” LED with no “COPPER” or “FIBER” activity LEDs indicates a break or severe issue in the respective cable segment.

• Obsolescence Note: The Genius bus and 90-30 platform are legacy. While this module solves immediate problems, a long-term migration plan to a modern networked I/O system should be considered.

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