GE IC695CPE305-AC Single-Slot CPU Module

Description

The GE IC695CPE305-AC (often referenced as IC695CPE305 with -AC suffix indicating a specific revision or packaging) serves as a capable, single-slot CPU in the PACSystems RX3i family, addressing the need for reliable, high-performance control in mid-range to complex automation setups without over-engineering the hardware. In industrial automation and process control environments, engineers frequently face the challenge of balancing processing power, memory capacity, and connectivity while keeping rack space, power draw, and costs in check. Legacy systems or entry-level controllers often struggle with larger programs, symbolic variable demands, multiple communication channels, or modern features like OPC UA, leading to sluggish scan times, limited I/O handling, or forced upgrades to more expensive platforms.

GE IC695CPE305-AC becomes essential when your application requires deterministic execution for machines, discrete processes, material handling, or smaller continuous loops that demand fast logic solving alongside Ethernet-based integration and data exchange. It shines in scenarios where you need more than a basic compact PLC but don’t require the extreme horsepower of higher-end models—think plants expanding legacy GE Fanuc systems, retrofitting mid-size lines, or building distributed control without excessive cabinet real estate. Without sufficient user memory and multi-protocol support, teams end up splitting logic across multiple CPUs, adding gateways for Ethernet/IP or Modbus/TCP, or tolerating slower response to operator inputs and HMI updates. GE IC695CPE305-AC delivers a balanced, embedded-Ethernet solution that supports modern programming practices, reduces external hardware, and maintains high reliability in 24/7 operations.

The GE IC695CPE305-AC operates as the central processing unit in the RX3i PACSystems rack, occupying one slot on the universal backplane and interfacing directly with a wide range of RX3i I/O, motion, and specialty modules via the high-speed PCI/Serial dual bus. It features a 1 GHz processor that handles ladder, structured text, function block, and C logic efficiently, with configurable memory allocation between program and data areas. The embedded Ethernet port (single RJ-45, auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps) enables up to 32 SRTP server connections, 16 Modbus/TCP servers, and mixed client channels, plus OPC UA server capability and Ethernet Global Data for peer-to-peer exchange. An RS-232 serial port supports Modbus RTU or SNPX for legacy devices or programming.

Positioned at the top of the RX3i rack, GE IC695CPE305-AC coordinates local and remote I/O (up to eight local racks), intelligent modules, and networked devices. It pairs with the IC695ACC400 Energy Pack for battery-less memory retention during power loss, writing critical data to non-volatile flash. Built-in diagnostics, status LEDs, and support for HART pass-through (via compatible I/O) aid troubleshooting. Time synchronization via SNTP is possible with additional Ethernet modules. This CPU fits seamlessly into standalone machines or integrated DCS/PLC architectures, supporting Proficy Machine Edition for configuration and leveraging symbolic variables to simplify tag-based programming without rigid reference limits.

Selecting the GE IC695CPE305-AC provides engineers with a processor that maintains consistent scan times even as logic complexity grows, thanks to its 5 MB user RAM and 5 MB non-volatile flash. Engineered for industrial automation reliability, the Energy Pack integration ensures data integrity during brownouts or shutdowns without relying on battery life, reducing maintenance surprises and supporting battery-less designs in harsh or remote locations. This contributes to longer mean time between failures and smoother operations where unplanned restarts could disrupt production.

The embedded Ethernet and multi-protocol support cut integration time by eliminating many external gateways—connect HMIs, SCADA, or other controllers directly while handling client/server roles efficiently. Programming teams benefit from flexible memory use and support for auto-located symbolic variables, which lowers engineering overhead when scaling or migrating code. In practice, GE IC695CPE305-AC delivers dependable performance that keeps processes stable, minimizes nuisance downtime from communication bottlenecks, and allows focus on optimization rather than constant patching or hardware additions.

GE IC695CPE305-AC is commonly deployed in discrete manufacturing for assembly lines, packaging machines, and material handling systems requiring fast logic execution and Ethernet connectivity to upper-level systems. In process industries like water/wastewater or food & beverage, it controls pumps, valves, and batch sequences in environments needing reliable I/O coordination and HART pass-through for smart instrumentation. Power and utilities applications use it for substation automation or auxiliary systems demanding continuous uptime and deterministic response under variable loads.

These scenarios prioritize high reliability, moderate-to-high I/O counts, and seamless integration into existing Ethernet networks—areas where GE IC695CPE305-AC excels without the overhead of flagship CPUs. It supports critical system uptime in plants where scan times must stay predictable even during peak communication loads or diagnostic polling.

Here are some related or alternative products within the RX3i family and beyond:

• IC695CPE310 – Higher-performance dual-core CPU with expanded memory and speed for more demanding applications.
• IC695CPE330 – Advanced CPU with dual Ethernet ports and greater channel capacity for networked redundancy.
• IC695CPU320 – Mid-range CPU with similar form factor but without embedded Ethernet (requires separate NIC).
• IC695CRU320 – Redundancy-capable CPU for high-availability hot-standby configurations.
• IC695CPE400 – Newer quad-core model with significantly more processing power and modern security features.
• IC695ETM001 – Rack-based Ethernet module for additional ports or advanced networking when embedded port is insufficient.
• IC695ACC400 – Required Energy Pack for non-volatile memory write on power-down (included with many IC695CPE305 shipments).
• IC695CPU315 – Lower-cost CPU option with reduced memory for simpler applications.

Before installing GE IC695CPE305-AC, confirm backplane compatibility (RX3i universal rack) and ensure the system power supply (e.g., IC695PSA040) provides stable 5 V/3.3 V rails with adequate margin for the full rack load. Attach the IC695ACC400 Energy Pack and connect its cable properly—verify the pull-tab is removed from the RTC battery. Check firmware version via Proficy Machine Edition to match your application needs; update if required for OPC UA or security enhancements. Allow clearance for airflow, as the 1 GHz processor generates moderate heat in enclosed panels.

Ongoing maintenance involves periodic LED checks—healthy status shows steady green OK and Ethernet link/activity lights. Inspect the Energy Pack connections and capacitor status indicators during outages; replace the pack every 5–7 years or upon warning. Review event logs in PME for faults, and perform application backups to RDSD (USB) or SD cards routinely. No routine calibration is needed, but validate I/O response and communication during scheduled shutdowns to catch drift early. Diagnostics integrate well into HMIs for remote monitoring.