GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 Graphics Display Coprocessor (GDC)

Description

The GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 (often listed as IC697GDC701) solves a specific challenge in legacy industrial automation and process control systems on the Series 90-70 platform: offloading graphics-intensive tasks from the main CPU to maintain high-performance real-time control while enabling sophisticated operator interfaces. In applications requiring detailed visual displays — such as process monitoring, trend graphs, alarm summaries, or custom HMI screens — standard CPUs can become overloaded with display rendering, leading to slower scan times, delayed I/O response, or program execution bottlenecks that compromise system stability and safety. This becomes particularly critical in larger installations with multiple operator stations or complex visualization needs, where the main processor must prioritize logic execution without interruptions. The IC697GDC701 functions as a dedicated Graphics Display Coprocessor (GDC), running the IC640HWP77X Graphics Display System (GDS) software to handle all graphics processing independently. It occupies a single slot, freeing the primary CPU for core control duties, and supports reliable, high-resolution displays for operator interaction. By providing this specialized offloading, GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 ensures consistent high reliability in process control environments, reduces latency in human-machine interfaces, and supports intuitive operator feedback without sacrificing deterministic PLC performance — making it essential for systems where clear, responsive visualization directly impacts operational efficiency and decision-making.

The GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 operates as an intelligent coprocessor within the Series 90-70 VME-based architecture, installed in any available slot (not restricted to slot 1) of compatible racks. It communicates with the main CPU over the VME C.1 backplane, receiving display data and commands while independently managing graphics rendering and output to compatible terminals or displays via its RS-422/RS-485 serial port (Port 2) for keyboard/input from the Graphics Display Terminal (GDT). It runs dedicated GDS software to generate and update screens, including text, graphics, trends, and alarms, offloading these compute-heavy tasks from the primary processor. The module includes a battery-backed memory for retaining configurations and display data during power loss, along with front-panel indicators for status monitoring. This setup allows seamless integration with Series 90-70 CPUs and I/O subsystems, supporting local or distributed control where operators need real-time visual access to process variables. Positioned as a specialty coprocessor in the rack, IC697GDC701 enhances the overall control stack by providing dedicated HMI capabilities without impacting scan cycles or logic execution.

Technical Highlights Summary

Selecting the GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 delivers meaningful benefits in Series 90-70 systems where operator visibility and system responsiveness are priorities. Engineered specifically for graphics handling, it offloads demanding display tasks from the main CPU, ensuring consistently fast scan times and predictable control execution even as HMI complexity increases. This separation of duties enhances overall high reliability, allowing the primary processor to focus on critical logic and I/O without slowdowns from rendering operations. In practice, the dedicated coprocessor reduces engineering overhead during HMI development — screens update smoothly, trends display accurately, and alarms appear promptly — improving operator situational awareness and reducing response times to process deviations. The module’s robust design withstands industrial conditions like vibration, temperature cycles, and electrical noise, while battery-backed memory preserves configurations during outages. For legacy installations, IC697GDC701 extends usable life by modernizing the interface layer without requiring full system replacement, providing a cost-effective way to maintain performance and support ongoing operations.

Typical use cases

for the GE Fanuc IC697GDC701 include chemical processing plants, power generation facilities, and manufacturing operations where critical system uptime pairs with detailed operator visualization in continuous or batch processes. In petrochemical or water treatment sites, it drives custom graphics displays for monitoring reactor variables, flow trends, and alarm states under harsh conditions like humidity, dust, or temperature extremes, enabling quick operator intervention. Manufacturing lines benefit from its use in supervisory HMIs for machine status, production metrics, and fault diagnostics, supporting fast data cycles for real-time oversight in high-speed environments. In utility or energy applications, the IC697GDC701 facilitates clear, responsive interfaces for turbine control or grid monitoring, ensuring operators have reliable visual feedback amid demanding 24/7 operations.

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

IC697GDS701 – Related graphics support module or variant for display system enhancements

IC697ADS701 – Alphanumeric Display Coprocessor for simpler text-based HMI needs

IC697PCM711 – Programmable Coprocessor for general offloading tasks

IC697CPX935 – High-performance main CPU that can pair with GDC for balanced systems

IC697CPU781 – Enhanced CPU for applications requiring coprocessor support

IC697BEM731 – Genius Bus Controller for distributed I/O integration with HMI

IC697CGR935 – Redundancy-capable CPU for high-availability setups using coprocessors

Before installing the GE Fanuc IC697GDC701, confirm rack compatibility and available slot (power off the rack, insert with care to align connectors). Connect the lithium battery properly (using either connector) for memory retention, and verify it is fresh to ensure 6-month hold when unpowered. Reference the GDS software manual for configuration, ensuring compatibility with your display terminal and programmer tools. Check firmware level via software, as updates may be required. Allow proper rack airflow to maintain the 0–60°C range. For ongoing maintenance, inspect status LEDs periodically for faults, test battery annually, and perform regular diagnostics on display communication during low-load periods. Clean connectors and vents during shutdowns to prevent dust buildup, and keep program/display backups current to minimize recovery time from any issues.