Description

GE IC698CMX016 – Advanced Communication & Memory Expansion Module for GE RX3i Seriesbove]

Product Description

Product Parameters

1. Module Type: Integrated communication & memory expansion module, exclusive to GE RX3i Series PLC systems
2. Memory Capacity: 1 GB non-volatile flash memory (program/recipe storage) + 512 MB DDR4 RAM (real-time data processing)
3. Communication Protocols: Native support for Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profinet IO, OPC UA, and MQTT, enabling full IoT integration
4. Communication Ports: 2 x 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports (RJ45) with redundancy support + 1 x RS-485 serial port (Modbus RTU)
5. PLC Compatibility: Fully compatible with GE RX3i CPUs (IC695CPU374, IC695CPU380), chassis (IC698CHS017), and I/O modules (IC695HSC304, IC695MDL653)
6. Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F), resilient to extreme industrial temperature fluctuations
7. Power Consumption: 3.2 W (typical) at 24 VDC input, 3.9 W (max), energy-efficient for 24/7 continuous operation
8. Physical Dimensions: 140 mm × 85 mm × 120 mm (5.51 in × 3.35 in × 4.72 in), DIN rail mountable (EN 50022 standard)
9. Certifications: UL 508, CE, IEC 61131-2, ATEX, IEEE 802.3, and IEC 62443 (cybersecurity) compliant
10. Operating Humidity: 5% – 95% (non-condensing), adaptable to humid industrial settings
11. Data Retention: Flash memory retains data for 15+ years without power supply
12. Protection Features: Built-in ESD protection (±8 kV contact, ±15 kV air) and surge protection for Ethernet ports

Advantages and Features

1. Integrated Communication & Memory: The GE IC698CMX016 combines two critical functions in one module, reducing chassis slot usage, lowering hardware costs, and simplifying system design compared to using separate communication and memory modules.
2. Dual Gigabit Redundant Ethernet: Two Gigabit Ethernet ports support network redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted data transmission even if one port or network line fails—critical for mission-critical applications like power generation and chemical processing.
3. Massive High-Speed Memory: 1 GB flash memory and 512 MB DDR4 RAM provide ample storage for large PLC programs, production recipes, and historical data logs, while DDR4’s high bandwidth accelerates real-time data processing.
4. IoT-Ready Multi-Protocol Support: Native compatibility with five key industrial protocols (including MQTT and OPC UA) eliminates the need for external gateways, enabling seamless integration with cloud platforms and smart factory ecosystems.
5. Industrial-Grade Reliability: A wide operating temperature range, robust port protection, and an MTBF exceeding 160,000 hours ensure the GE IC698CMX016 performs stably in harsh environments, from dusty factories to outdoor substations.
6. Seamless RX3i Ecosystem Integration: Plug-and-play compatibility with all RX3i hardware and software streamlines deployment and maintenance, allowing engineers to quickly configure protocols and memory allocation via GE’s Proficy software.

Application Cases in Application Fields

1. Smart Factory Automation: A global automotive manufacturer deployed the GE IC698CMX016 in its electric vehicle assembly lines, using the module’s Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect RX3i PLCs with robotic arms and a cloud-based MES platform via OPC UA. The 1 GB flash memory stored 50+ production recipes, enabling quick model changeovers and improving line flexibility by 28%.
2. Renewable Energy Farm Monitoring: A wind energy company integrated the GE IC698CMX016 into its wind turbine control systems, leveraging MQTT to transmit real-time performance data (turbine speed, energy output) to a central IoT platform. The redundant Ethernet ports ensured continuous data transmission during network maintenance, reducing data loss incidents by 35%.
3. Chemical Batch Production: A pharmaceutical manufacturer used the GE IC698CMX016 in its sterile batch production lines, where the module stored critical process parameters and communicated with a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) via Ethernet/IP. The large memory capacity supported compliant data logging for regulatory audits, cutting documentation time by 22%.
4. Remote Water Treatment Control: A municipal water utility adopted the GE IC698CMX016 for its distributed pump stations, using the RS-485 port to connect legacy sensors and the Gigabit port to transmit data to a central SCADA system. The module’s rugged design withstood outdoor temperature fluctuations, ensuring 99.9% system uptime.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Selection Suggestions

1. Align with RX3i Ecosystem: Prioritize the GE IC698CMX016 if your system uses GE RX3i CPUs and chassis, ensuring full compatibility and access to GE’s technical support for protocol configuration and memory optimization.
2. Assess IoT and Data Needs: Choose this module for applications requiring cloud integration (MQTT/OPC UA) or large data storage (e.g., recipe management, historical logging), as it eliminates the need for additional hardware.
3. Evaluate Network Redundancy Requirements: Opt for the GE IC698CMX016 for mission-critical setups (e.g., energy, pharmaceuticals) where network downtime is costly, leveraging its dual redundant Ethernet ports.
4. Consider Space Constraints: Select this module for compact control cabinets, as its all-in-one design saves chassis slots compared to deploying separate communication and memory modules.

Precautions

1. Port Configuration: Assign unique IP addresses to the two Ethernet ports to avoid network conflicts; configure protocol settings via GE’s Proficy software to match your system’s network architecture.
2. Memory Management: Regularly back up data stored in the flash memory to prevent loss; avoid overwriting critical program files during system updates or recipe changes.
3. Static and Surge Protection: Use anti-static wristbands when handling the GE IC698CMX016 during installation; install surge protectors on Ethernet and RS-485 lines to shield the module from voltage spikes.
4. Power Supply Stability: Connect the module to a regulated 24 VDC power supply with surge protection to avoid voltage fluctuations that may disrupt communication or corrupt stored data.
5. Firmware Updates: Update the module’s firmware exclusively via GE’s official software to access new protocol features and cybersecurity patches—never use unapproved third-party firmware.

IC698CMX016