Description

GE IC698CRE030 – Redundant High-Performance CPU Module for GE RX3i Series PLCs

Product Description

Product Parameters

1. Module Type: Redundant 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 control logic execution and redundant data synchronization
3. Memory Capacity: 2 GB non-volatile flash memory (program/recipe storage) + 1 GB ECC DDR3 RAM (real-time data processing with error correction)
4. Control Logic Capacity: Supports up to 3 million lines of ladder logic, function block, structured text, and sequential function chart programming
5. Redundancy Support: Native hot-standby redundant configuration, enabling automatic failover between primary and secondary CPUs in < 10 ms
6. Supported Protocols: Native support for Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profinet IO, OPC UA, and MQTT, enabling seamless IoT and cloud integration
7. PLC Compatibility: Fully compatible with GE RX3i redundant chassis, communication modules (IC698CMX016), and I/O modules (IC695MDL653, IC695MDL740)
8. Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F), resilient to extreme industrial temperature fluctuations
9. Power Consumption: 4.2 W (typical) at 24 VDC input, 5.0 W (max), balanced for high performance and energy efficiency
10. Physical Dimensions: 140 mm × 85 mm × 120 mm (5.51 in × 3.35 in × 4.72 in), DIN rail mountable (EN 50022 standard)
11. Certifications: UL 508, CE, IEC 61131-2, ATEX, IEEE 1613, and IEC 62443 (cybersecurity) compliant
12. Operating Humidity: 5% – 95% (non-condensing), adaptable to humid industrial settings
13. Data Synchronization: Real-time redundant data synchronization between primary and secondary CPUs, ensuring no data loss during failover
14. MTBF: Exceeds 200,000 hours, ensuring long-term reliability in mission-critical applications

Advantages and Features

1. Ultra-Fast Redundant Failover: The GE IC698CRE030 supports hot-standby redundancy with < 10 ms failover time, eliminating operational gaps during CPU failures—critical for applications where even minimal downtime causes significant losses.
2. Dual-Core High-Speed Processing: The 1.0 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor enables parallel execution of control tasks and data analytics, reducing latency and handling complex logic for both discrete and process control applications.
3. Error-Resilient Memory System: 1 GB ECC DDR3 RAM prevents data corruption from electrical interference, while 2 GB flash memory provides ample storage for large programs, production recipes, and historical data logs with 15+ year retention.
4. 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 industrial devices.
5. Seamless RX3i Redundancy Integration: Plug-and-play compatibility with RX3i redundant chassis and modules streamlines the setup of fault-tolerant systems, reducing deployment time and technical complexity for engineering teams.
6. Enhanced Cybersecurity Compliance: IEC 62443 certification, secure firmware updates, and encrypted data synchronization protect the module from cyber threats, safeguarding critical industrial control systems.

Application Cases in Application Fields

1. Nuclear Power Plant Auxiliary Control: A global nuclear energy provider deployed the GE IC698CRE030 in its reactor cooling system control, using two CPUs in hot-standby configuration. The ultra-fast failover ensured uninterrupted monitoring of coolant flow and temperature, while ECC RAM maintained data integrity in high-interference environments, complying with strict nuclear safety regulations.
2. Large-Scale Chemical Refinery: A multinational petrochemical company integrated the GE IC698CRE030 into its ethylene cracking unit control systems, leveraging redundant CPUs to manage complex process logic and real-time data from 100+ sensors. The real-time data synchronization prevented batch losses during unexpected CPU switches, improving production yield by 22%.
3. Smart Grid Substation Control: A regional utility company used the GE IC698CRE030 in its high-voltage substation automation systems, where the redundant CPUs coordinated power distribution and communicated with renewable energy sources via MQTT. The module’s reliability ensured 24/7 grid stability, reducing outage duration by 30% across the service area.
4. Pharmaceutical Batch Production: A pharmaceutical manufacturer adopted the GE IC698CRE030 in its sterile manufacturing lines, using redundant CPUs to control mixing, sterilization, and packaging processes. The hot-standby configuration prevented production interruptions, ensuring compliance with FDA regulations for continuous batch recording and reducing product waste by 18%.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

Selection Suggestions

1. Prioritize Zero-Downtime Applications: Choose the GE IC698CRE030 for sectors where downtime is catastrophic (nuclear power, chemical refining, smart grids), leveraging its ultra-fast failover and redundant design.
2. Align with RX3i Redundant Ecosystem: Select this module if your system uses GE RX3i redundant chassis, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance for fault-tolerant setups.
3. Assess Complexity and IoT Needs: Opt for the GE IC698CRE030 for large-scale systems requiring 2M+ lines of code or IoT integration, as it eliminates the need for additional communication hardware.
4. Compliance-Driven Industries: Choose this CPU for regulated sectors (pharmaceuticals, nuclear energy) due to its robust data integrity features and global safety certifications.

Precautions

1. Redundancy Configuration: Ensure primary and secondary GE IC698CRE030 modules have matching firmware versions to enable smooth failover and real-time data synchronization.
2. Power Supply Redundancy: Pair the CPUs with a redundant 24 VDC power supply to avoid power-related failures that bypass CPU redundancy, ensuring end-to-end fault tolerance.
3. Static and Surge Protection: Use anti-static wristbands during installation and maintenance, and install surge protectors on network lines to shield the dual-core processor and memory components.
4. Firmware Security Updates: Update firmware exclusively via GE’s official Proficy software to maintain cybersecurity compliance and redundancy feature optimization—never use unapproved firmware.
5. Synchronization Monitoring: Regularly check the status of redundant data synchronization via the PLC’s diagnostic interface to proactively identify issues before they affect system operation.

IC698CRE030