Description

GE IC698CPE030 – High-Performance CPU Module for GE RX3i Series PLCs

Product Description

Product Parameters

1. Module Type: High-performance CPU module, exclusive to GE RX3i Series PLC systems
2. Processor: 32-bit dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor with a clock speed of 1.0 GHz, optimized for parallel execution of control logic and data processing
3. Memory Capacity: 2 GB non-volatile flash memory (for program/recipe storage) + 1 GB DDR3 RAM (for real-time data processing)
4. Control Logic Capacity: Supports up to 3 million lines of ladder logic, function block, structured text, and sequential function chart programming
5. Supported Protocols: Native support for Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profinet IO, OPC UA, and MQTT, enabling seamless IoT and cloud integration
6. PLC Compatibility: Fully compatible with GE RX3i chassis (IC698CHS017), communication modules (IC698CMX016), and I/O modules (IC695MDL653, IC695MDL740)
7. Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F), resilient to extreme industrial temperature fluctuations
8. Power Consumption: 4.0 W (typical) at 24 VDC input, 4.8 W (max), balanced for high performance and energy efficiency
9. Physical Dimensions: 140 mm × 85 mm × 120 mm (5.51 in × 3.35 in × 4.72 in), DIN rail mountable (EN 50022 standard)
10. Certifications: UL 508, CE, IEC 61131-2, ATEX, IEEE 1613, and IEC 62443 (cybersecurity) compliant, meeting global safety and performance standards
11. Operating Humidity: 5% – 95% (non-condensing), adaptable to humid industrial settings
12. Error Correction: ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM to prevent data corruption and ensure reliable operation in high-interference environments

Advantages and Features

1. Dual-Core High-Speed Processing: The 1.0 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor of the GE IC698CPE030 enables parallel execution of control tasks and data analytics, reducing processing latency by 45% compared to single-core alternatives and making it ideal for time-sensitive applications like motion control and real-time process monitoring.
2. Massive Memory Capacity: 2 GB flash memory and 1 GB ECC RAM provide ample storage for large-scale programs, production recipes, and historical data logs, while error-correcting code ensures data integrity in harsh industrial environments prone to electrical interference.
3. IoT-Ready Multi-Protocol Support: Native compatibility with five key industrial protocols eliminates the need for additional communication modules, simplifying integration with cloud platforms, SCADA systems, and legacy devices in smart factory setups.
4. Industrial-Grade Reliability: With a wide operating temperature range, rugged component design, and an MTBF exceeding 180,000 hours, the GE IC698CPE030 delivers consistent performance in harsh conditions, minimizing unplanned downtime and maintenance costs.
5. Seamless RX3i Ecosystem Integration: Plug-and-play compatibility with all RX3i chassis and modules streamlines system design, deployment, and upgrades, reducing the learning curve for engineers and technicians.
6. Flexible Control Capability: The CPU supports both discrete and process control applications, making the GE IC698CPE030 versatile for diverse industries—from automotive manufacturing (discrete) to chemical processing (process control).

Application Cases in Application Fields

1. Automotive Body Assembly Line: A leading automotive OEM deployed the GE IC698CPE030 in its body-in-white assembly lines, using the dual-core processor to coordinate 70+ robotic arms, welding stations, and quality inspection systems. The CPU’s high logic capacity supported 2.5 million lines of code, enabling flexible production of multiple vehicle models on the same line and reducing cycle time by 22%.
2. Chemical Refinery Process Control: A global petrochemical company integrated the GE IC698CPE030 into its distillation column control systems, leveraging the CPU to process real-time data from pressure transmitters, temperature sensors, and flow meters. The ECC RAM ensured data integrity in the high-interference refinery environment, while OPC UA support enabled secure communication with the plant’s central SCADA system, improving process efficiency by 18%.
3. Renewable Energy Farm Control: A solar energy company used the GE IC698CPE030 to control its utility-scale solar farm, where the CPU managed 500+ solar inverters and communicated with a cloud-based monitoring platform via MQTT. The dual-core processing handled high-volume data transmission and inverter control simultaneously, ensuring optimal energy output and reducing operational costs by 15%.
4. Food and Beverage Batch Production: A large beverage manufacturer adopted the GE IC698CPE030 in its bottling and packaging lines, using the CPU to store 100+ production recipes and coordinate filling, capping, and labeling machines. The 2 GB flash memory provided ample storage for recipe variations, enabling quick batch changes and increasing line flexibility by 25%.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Selection Suggestions

1. Align with RX3i Ecosystem: Prioritize the GE IC698CPE030 if your system uses GE RX3i chassis and modules, ensuring full compatibility and optimal performance without integration issues.
2. Assess System Complexity: Choose this CPU for large-scale automation projects requiring complex control logic (1M+ lines of code) or high-volume data processing, such as automotive assembly lines, chemical refineries, or renewable energy farms.
3. Evaluate IoT and Cloud Needs: Opt for the GE IC698CPE030 if your setup requires integration with cloud platforms or IoT devices, as its native MQTT and OPC UA support eliminates the need for additional gateway modules.
4. Consider Harsh Environments: Select this module for applications in extreme temperatures or high-interference settings, as its wide operating range and ECC RAM ensure reliability where competitors may fail.

Precautions

1. Firmware Management: Regularly update the module’s firmware via GE’s official Proficy software to access new features and cybersecurity patches—never use unapproved third-party firmware, which may compromise performance.
2. Power Supply Stability: Connect the GE IC698CPE030 to a regulated 24 VDC power supply with surge protection to avoid voltage fluctuations that may corrupt memory or damage the dual-core processor.
3. Static Protection: Use anti-static wristbands when handling the CPU module during installation, as electrostatic discharge can damage the sensitive processor and memory components.
4. Memory Maintenance: Periodically back up program and configuration data stored in the flash memory to a secure location, ensuring quick recovery in the event of unexpected system failures.
5. Chassis Compatibility: Ensure the module is installed in a GE RX3i chassis (e.g., IC698CHS017) with proper cooling and ventilation, as the dual-core processor generates slightly more heat than single-core alternatives.