GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 VME DLAN Interface Module

Description

The GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 addresses a specialized need in legacy industrial automation and drive system integration: enabling seamless, high-performance communication between Series 90-70 PLCs and GE Drive Systems using the DLAN and DLAN+ protocols. In large-scale drive applications—such as coordinated multi-drive setups for rolling mills, cranes, or process lines—engineers often grapple with bridging the gap between PLC logic and distributed drive controls without introducing latency, protocol mismatches, or complex custom interfacing. These challenges grow in environments demanding precise synchronization, reliable data exchange, and fault reporting across drives spread over significant distances.

The GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 provides a dedicated VME-based interface that resolves these issues by acting as a single-slot controller capable of operating in either DLAN (multi-drop serial) or DLAN+ (high-speed Arcnet-based) mode. It becomes essential when upgrading or maintaining existing Series 90-70 systems tied to GE DC2000 or similar drive families, ensuring deterministic communication for drive commands, status monitoring, and parameter access while preserving high reliability in noisy industrial settings. This module supports the kind of robust, purpose-built connectivity that keeps process control and drive coordination stable without the overhead of modern fieldbus conversions.

Positioned within the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 rack (specifically designed for VME-compatible or standard racks), the GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 installs in any available slot as a single-module interface to the DLAN/DLAN+ network. It leverages a 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor to handle protocol translation, data buffering, and network management, allowing the PLC CPU to send/receive drive commands, diagnostics, and parameters via ladder logic or service requests. The module supports both DLAN (serial multi-drop) and DLAN+ (faster Arcnet topology) but not simultaneously in one unit, providing flexibility for different drive system generations.

A dedicated DLAN network connector handles the physical link, while three front-panel status LEDs offer immediate visibility into operation, faults, and network activity. Configuration occurs entirely through software (no jumpers or DIP switches required), with a restart pushbutton for quick recovery. It integrates tightly into the Series 90-70 backplane for efficient data flow to the CPU, enabling coordinated control of multiple drives without additional gateways. This keeps the industrial automation stack focused on application performance rather than communication hurdles.

Here is a concise summary of the key technical highlights:

Opting for the GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 delivers clear advantages in sustaining high-value drive-integrated systems. Engineered for dependable performance in demanding industrial automation environments, it ensures consistent, low-latency communication between the PLC and drives, supporting synchronized operations and rapid fault detection that minimize process disruptions. The module’s soft configuration and built-in diagnostics reduce setup time and troubleshooting effort, allowing engineers to maintain or expand systems without extensive rewiring or protocol conversions.

GE IC697BEM764 PDF

Over the long term, it helps preserve investment in legacy GE drive infrastructure while providing the stability needed for continuous operation. Maintenance becomes more predictable with visible LED feedback and straightforward restart capabilities, cutting downtime during diagnostics or configuration changes.

The GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 finds strong application in heavy industries where coordinated drive control is central to operations. In metals processing—such as rolling mills or continuous casting lines—it connects Series 90-70 PLCs to multiple DC2000 or similar drives for precise speed/torque coordination under harsh, high-vibration conditions requiring critical system uptime. Paper and pulp mills deploy it for sectional drive synchronization in winders or coaters, where reliable DLAN+ communication supports fast data cycles and parameter adjustments without interrupting production.

Cranes and material handling systems in ports or warehouses also benefit, using the GE Fanuc IC697BEM764 to link PLC logic with distributed drives in electrically noisy environments that demand robust, noise-immune networking.

For related options within the Series 90-70 family or drive interfacing ecosystem, consider these compatible or alternative models:

IC697BEM763 – Standard (non-VME) rack version of the DLAN interface module for conventional Series 90-70 installations.

IC697BEM731 – Genius I/O Bus Controller for distributed I/O networks, as an alternative when shifting away from drive-specific protocols.

IC697BEM733 – Dual-channel Genius Bus Controller for higher-capacity or redundant bus applications.

IC697BEM713 – Related bus receiver or extender module for expanded network reach in Series 90-70 setups.

IC660BBA020 – Compatible Genius I/O block for field-level interfacing on parallel networks.

IC697CPX935 – High-performance Series 90-70 CPU that pairs well with DLAN modules for demanding applications.

IC697BEM744 – Other communication interface variant for specialized LAN or bus requirements.

Before installing the GE Fanuc IC697BEM764, verify slot availability in your Series 90-70 rack (VME-compatible preferred) and confirm backplane power and addressing compatibility with the CPU. Ensure the DLAN/DLAN+ network cable is correctly terminated and matches the selected protocol mode (serial or Arcnet-based). Configure the module via programming software prior to insertion, checking for any firmware dependencies.

For ongoing maintenance, monitor the three status LEDs regularly for operational health, and inspect connectors periodically to prevent corrosion or loose connections in industrial atmospheres. Use software tools for diagnostics, and perform annual checks on network integrity, especially after drive additions or environmental changes. A restart pushbutton simplifies recovery from transient issues.