GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC Single-Slot 96 MHz 32-Bit Floating Point CPU

Description

The GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC (a specific revision of IC697CPX935, often denoted as IC697CPX935-CC) meets the demands of complex, high-performance industrial automation and process control applications on the Series 90-70 platform, where legacy systems require faster processing, substantial memory, and floating-point capabilities without expanding to multiple slots. In large-scale or math-intensive setups — such as those involving PID loops, advanced sequencing, data logging, or integration with multiple networks — earlier CPUs frequently hit bottlenecks from slower scan times, insufficient on-board memory for growing logic, or lack of native floating-point support, leading to performance degradation, frequent expansions, or program limitations during runtime. The IC697CPX935-CC stands out as a single-slot powerhouse with a 96 MHz 80486DX4 processor, 0.4 µs Boolean execution speed, 1 Mbyte of fast battery-backed RAM, and built-in floating-point math, supporting up to 12K discrete I/O (any mix) and 8K analog I/O. It becomes essential in environments needing high reliability and deterministic response for demanding control tasks, while its flash-based firmware enables in-system updates without hardware swaps. By offering this level of capability in a compact form, GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC helps extend the life of Series 90-70 installations, reduces the need for costly platform migrations, and ensures scalable performance in process control systems facing evolving production requirements.

The GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC acts as the high-end central processor in the Series 90-70 VME-based architecture, occupying slot 1 of compatible racks and driving program execution, I/O management, timers, counters, and system diagnostics. It processes logic programmed through Logicmaster 90 or Proficy Machine Edition software (ladder, structured text, SFC), delivering real-time control with exceptional speed for Boolean operations and floating-point calculations. The CPU interfaces across the VME C.1 backplane with a full range of Series 90-70 I/O modules, Genius Bus Controllers (e.g., IC697BEM731), LAN/Ethernet interfaces, and communication options, supporting local, remote, or distributed configurations via Genius networks or other links. It features three built-in serial ports (RS-232/RS-485) for programming, SNP protocol, or device connectivity, plus seven status LEDs for immediate fault visibility. Flash memory stores firmware (upgradable in-system), while the 1 Mbyte RAM (battery-backed) holds user programs and data, with additional flash for non-volatile storage. This positions IC697CPX935-CC as the high-performance core of the control stack, efficiently bridging field devices, I/O racks, and supervisory systems in industrial automation environments that demand speed, capacity, and flexibility.

Technical Highlights Summary

Choosing the GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC provides significant advantages for engineers maintaining or expanding Series 90-70 systems in performance-critical applications. Engineered with a fast 96 MHz processor and native floating-point support, it ensures consistently short scan times even under heavy logic loads or math calculations, delivering precise control in dynamic processes and reducing variability in output. The generous 1 Mbyte on-board RAM minimizes reliance on expansion memory modules, simplifying architecture and lowering costs while accommodating larger programs without slowdowns. In operation, its in-system firmware upgrade capability and flash storage cut downtime during updates, and the three serial ports plus LED diagnostics streamline commissioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting. This contributes to extended operational life in tough industrial settings — resisting vibration, temperature swings, and electrical noise — while keeping maintenance straightforward and engineering overhead low. The IC697CPX935-CC offers a reliable upgrade path for aging systems, preserving investments in existing I/O and networks while providing the headroom needed for future enhancements.

Typical use cases

for the GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC include large manufacturing facilities, chemical processing plants, and material handling systems where critical system uptime depends on high-speed, math-capable control in continuous or batch operations. In automotive or discrete manufacturing lines, it handles complex sequencing for robotic cells, assembly stations, and high-speed machinery, managing large I/O counts and fast cycles amid shop-floor dust and vibration. Process industries like petrochemicals or pharmaceuticals rely on it for advanced PID regulation, flow/pressure calculations, and safety interlocks in reactors or distillation units, ensuring accurate floating-point performance under harsh conditions like high humidity or temperature extremes. In material handling or utility applications, the IC697CPX935-CC coordinates distributed networks across Genius I/O for reliable, real-time data handling in high-throughput environments.

Here are some compatible or alternative products within the Series 90-70 family:

IC697CPX935 (base/non-suffix) – Standard version with identical core specs, often interchangeable with later revisions

IC697CPM925 – 64 MHz floating-point CPU for mid-range performance needs

IC697CPM915 – 32 MHz floating-point CPU for less demanding applications

IC697CGR935 – Redundancy-capable CPU for hot-standby high-availability setups

IC697CPU781 – Enhanced 32-bit CPU with similar capabilities but different memory focus

IC697CPX928 – Alternative high-end CPU with integrated coprocessor for specialized tasks

IC697CPX935-CD or later revisions – Updated hardware/firmware variants for improved reliability

Before installing the GE Fanuc IC697CPX935-CC, verify rack compatibility (e.g., IC697CHS750 or equivalent) and install it only in slot 1 with rack power off, RUN/STOP switch in STOP, and memory protect key OFF to avoid initialization errors. Ensure the lithium battery (IC697ACC701) is fresh and properly connected for program retention. Confirm firmware is up-to-date via programming software, as in-system updates are supported but require compatible tools. Maintain good rack ventilation to keep within the 0–60°C range. For ongoing maintenance, monitor the seven status LEDs for quick fault detection, check the battery annually (typical 6-month hold when unpowered), and schedule periodic program backups, diagnostic scans, and dust cleaning from vents/connectors during planned outages. These practices help sustain peak performance and prevent unexpected faults in long-running systems.