Description

GE IC695NIU001 – Industrial Network Interface PLC Module

Product Description

Product Parameters

1. Communication Ports: 1 x 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet port (RJ45), supporting auto-negotiation and full/half-duplex modes
2. Supported Protocols: Native support for Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and Profinet IO; compatible with GE’s Proficy software suite for seamless integration
3. Data Transfer Rate: Maximum throughput of 100 Mbps, optimized for real-time control data and non-time-sensitive monitoring data
4. PLC Compatibility: Fully compatible with all GE RX3i CPU modules (IC695CPU374, IC695CPU380) and RX3i rack units (4-slot, 10-slot, 16-slot)
5. Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F), suitable for harsh industrial environments
6. Power Consumption: 2.2 W (typical) at 24 VDC input, 2.8 W (max), energy-efficient for continuous operation
7. Physical Dimensions: 140 mm × 85 mm × 120 mm (5.51 in × 3.35 in × 4.72 in), DIN rail mountable (EN 50022 standard)
8. Certifications: UL 508, CE, IEC 61131-2, and IEEE 802.3 compliant, meeting global industrial safety and networking standards
9. Operating Humidity: 5% – 95% (non-condensing), adapting to humid industrial settings
10. Firmware Support: Field-upgradable firmware via GE Proficy Machine Edition (v9.0 and above) for protocol enhancements and bug fixes

Advantages and Features

1. Seamless Ecosystem Integration: The GE IC695NIU001 integrates flawlessly with GE RX3i PLCs and Proficy software, eliminating compatibility issues and reducing configuration time—ideal for users already invested in the GE automation ecosystem.
2. Multi-Protocol Support: Native compatibility with Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and Profinet IO ensures the module can connect with diverse industrial devices and systems, avoiding the need for additional gateway hardware.
3. Industrial-Grade Reliability: With a wide operating temperature range and rugged construction, the GE IC695NIU001 maintains stable performance in extreme conditions, including high-vibration factories, outdoor substations, and dusty warehouses.
4. Simplified Network Deployment: The plug-and-play design and intuitive software configuration allow for quick installation, even for users with limited networking expertise, minimizing downtime during system upgrades.
5. Cost-Effective Connectivity: As a compact, all-in-one network interface unit, the module reduces hardware costs compared to deploying separate communication modules or gateways, while delivering comparable performance for mid-range applications.
6. Robust Signal Integrity: The Fast Ethernet port features built-in EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) protection, ensuring stable data transmission in environments with heavy electrical noise from motors or industrial machinery.

Application Cases in Application Fields

1. Discrete Manufacturing: A small-scale electronics manufacturer deployed the GE IC695NIU001 in its PCB assembly lines, using the module to connect RX3i PLCs with pick-and-place machines and a factory MES system via Ethernet/IP. The module’s reliable data transmission enabled real-time production tracking, reducing work-in-progress inventory by 18%.
2. HVAC Control Systems: A commercial building management company integrated the GE IC695NIU001 into its HVAC control systems, leveraging Modbus TCP to link RX3i PLCs with temperature sensors, air handlers, and a central building automation system. The module’s energy-efficient design aligned with the company’s sustainability goals, cutting HVAC energy consumption by 12%.
3. Water Pumping Stations: A municipal water utility used the GE IC695NIU001 to connect PLCs in remote pumping stations with a central SCADA system via Profinet IO. The module’s rugged design withstood outdoor temperature fluctuations, ensuring 24/7 monitoring of pump pressure and flow rates, and reducing emergency maintenance calls by 25%.
4. Packaging Industry: A consumer goods manufacturer adopted the GE IC695NIU001 for its carton packaging lines, using the module to transmit production data (e.g., cartons per minute, downtime events) from RX3i PLCs to a cloud-based analytics platform. The module’s multi-protocol support simplified integration with existing systems, improving production efficiency by 14%.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Selection Suggestions

1. Align with GE Ecosystem: Prioritize the GE IC695NIU001 if your system uses GE RX3i PLCs, as it ensures seamless integration and full support from GE’s technical services, avoiding compatibility headaches.
2. Evaluate Network Requirements: Choose this module for mid-range applications requiring Fast Ethernet speed (100 Mbps) and multi-protocol support, such as small-to-medium manufacturing plants or building automation systems.
3. Consider Environmental Conditions: Opt for the GE IC695NIU001 for outdoor or harsh industrial settings, as its wide operating temperature range outperforms competitors with narrower environmental tolerances.
4. Cost Optimization: Select this module for budget-conscious projects, as it delivers core network functionality without the premium price tag of gigabit or multi-port network modules.

Precautions

1. Network Configuration: Assign a unique static IP address to the module to avoid conflicts on the industrial network; use network segmentation to separate control data from non-critical traffic.
2. Firmware Updates: Regularly update the module’s firmware via GE’s official software to access new protocol features and address security vulnerabilities—never use unapproved third-party firmware.
3. Cable Selection: Use industrial-grade Cat5e Ethernet cables to ensure signal integrity, especially in environments with high electromagnetic interference (EMI) from industrial machinery.
4. Static Protection: Use anti-static wristbands when handling the GE IC695NIU001 during installation or maintenance to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to sensitive network components.
5. Power Supply Stability: Connect the module to a regulated 24 VDC power supply with surge protection to avoid voltage fluctuations that may cause communication interruptions or module failure.

IC695NIU001