GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD Ethernet Interface Module

Description

The GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD (a specific revision of the IC698ETM001, often marked as -CD for hardware/firmware alignment) resolves the limitation of relying solely on the embedded Ethernet ports found in many RX7i CPUs, particularly when applications demand multiple independent network connections, higher throughput, dedicated channels for different services, or expanded diagnostic capabilities without overloading the main processor.

In industrial automation setups with PACSystems RX7i—common in facilities with large I/O counts, distributed control, or integration needs—engineers frequently hit bottlenecks: the CPU’s built-in dual Ethernet ports may suffice for basic SCADA access or peer-to-peer messaging, but adding requirements like separate EGD exchanges, Modbus TCP servers/clients, web-based monitoring, or redundant networking quickly saturates bandwidth or complicates configuration. This leads to slower data updates, dropped packets during peak loads, or the need for external gateways that introduce latency and failure points.

GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD steps in as a dedicated, high-performance Ethernet interface module, offloading network processing from the CPU to maintain deterministic scan times and reliable communication. It’s essential in systems requiring high reliability Ethernet connectivity for real-time data exchange, remote I/O over networks, or interfacing with enterprise systems—environments where a single embedded port isn’t enough for segmented traffic, firewall rules, or failover scenarios. With its 200 MHz dedicated processor, autosensing 10/100 Mbps ports, and support for protocols like SRTP, EGD (including Class II commands), Modbus TCP, and Reliable Data Service, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD ensures clean, low-latency network performance while providing built-in station manager tools and redundant IP addressing for hot-standby setups.

GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD installs as a standalone VME module in any available slot of an RX7i rack baseplate (e.g., IC698CHSxxx series), connecting via the high-speed VME64 backplane to the CPU and other modules. It features two RJ-45 Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps with auto-sensing and auto-switching) for primary and secondary network connections, plus one dedicated RS-232 serial port exclusively for station manager functions (telnet/web access for configuration, diagnostics, and firmware upgrades).

In the automation stack, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD acts as an offloaded communications co-processor: the CPU delegates Ethernet tasks to it, freeing cycles for logic execution while the module handles protocol stacks, packet routing, and buffering. It supports full-duplex operation, flash-upgradable firmware (via CPU serial or Ethernet), and advanced features like redundant IP (sharing one IP across two modules in redundant CPUs), EGD Class 2 for commanded exchanges, and router support for multi-subnet reachability. LEDs provide clear status (Link OK, Activity, Fault, etc.), and the station manager port enables detailed troubleshooting without disrupting control. Positioned alongside the CPU and I/O, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD integrates seamlessly into RX7i architectures, enhancing connectivity for process control applications without requiring platform changes or external switches/routers in many cases.

Here are the key technical highlights in a concise format:

Choosing GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD adds significant network flexibility and performance headroom to RX7i systems. Engineered for offloaded processing, its dedicated 200 MHz Ethernet engine prevents CPU bottlenecks during heavy traffic, delivering consistent low-latency exchanges for EGD, SRTP programming, or Modbus TCP—critical for maintaining tight process loops and accurate data synchronization across controllers. The dual ports enable physical network separation (e.g., control vs. enterprise), reducing security risks and improving fault isolation without extra hardware.

In operation, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD supports redundant IP for seamless failover in hot-standby CPU pairs, ensuring uninterrupted remote access or data flow. Flash firmware updates keep it current without downtime, while comprehensive station manager diagnostics (via serial or web) speed troubleshooting—often resolving issues remotely before they impact production. For plants extending RX7i service life, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD maximizes existing investments by enhancing connectivity affordably, avoiding costly migrations while enabling integration with modern SCADA, historians, or cloud gateways.

GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD is frequently used in industries needing robust, multi-channel Ethernet in VME-based control platforms. In oil & gas—refineries, pipelines, or offshore platforms—it enables reliable EGD exchanges for process data, Modbus TCP to third-party instruments, and remote monitoring in electrically noisy or geographically dispersed setups demanding continuous uptime. Power generation facilities deploy GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD for turbine controls, boiler management, or grid interfaces, where separate networks handle operator HMI traffic versus secure engineering access. Manufacturing and chemical plants rely on it for large-scale batch or continuous processes, supporting high I/O counts with fast peer-to-peer messaging and integration to MES/ERP systems under harsh conditions.

Across these applications, GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD performs reliably where network demands exceed embedded CPU capabilities—ensuring stable, high-speed communication without compromising control determinism.

For related or alternative options within the RX7i family:

IC698ETM001 – Base/standard version (identical core specs; -CD is a later hardware/firmware revision).

IC698CPE020 – CPU with embedded dual Ethernet; use IC698ETM001-CD when extra ports or offload needed.

IC698CRE020 – Redundant CPU pair; IC698ETM001-CD complements with additional/redundant IP Ethernet.

IC697CMM711 – Older Series 90-70 Ethernet module (for legacy transitions).

IC698CHS017 – 17-slot rack baseplate accommodating IC698ETM001-CD in expansion slots

. IC695ETM001 – RX3i equivalent Ethernet module for platform migration paths.

IC698RMX016 – Redundancy Memory Xchange; pairs with redundant setups using IC698ETM001-CD for network failover.

IC698PSA100 – Rack power supply ensuring stable operation with added modules like IC698ETM001-CD.

Before installing GE Fanuc IC698ETM001-CD, verify RX7i rack slot availability (any non-CPU slot) and backplane compatibility; confirm total power budget with the rack supply (e.g., IC698PSA100) as it draws up to 1.5 A @ +5 VDC. Update CPU and module firmware to matching revisions via Proficy Machine Edition or station manager to avoid protocol mismatches. Wire Ethernet ports with Cat5e or better shielded cable, ground properly to reduce noise, and configure IP settings (including redundant IP if used) through the station manager port or programming software. Test network connectivity and EGD exchanges post-installation in a controlled manner.

Ongoing maintenance is straightforward: monitor front-panel LEDs (Link/Activity steady or flashing for healthy comms; Fault prompts station manager checks). Access diagnostics via the serial station manager port or web interface periodically for traffic stats, error logs, or firmware status. Clean RJ-45 connectors and inspect cabling annually, especially in dusty or vibrating environments. Firmware upgrades follow Emerson guidance—download and apply via CPU serial or Ethernet, testing offline first. No routine parts replacement is required, but keep spares for this legacy module.