GE IC695CPE310-AC RX3i PACSystems Controller (CPU)

Description

In modern industrial automation and process control environments built on PACSystems RX3i platforms, handling increasingly complex logic, larger data sets, and integrated networking without sacrificing scan performance or scalability is a persistent challenge for engineers. Legacy CPUs often bottleneck throughput with slower processors, limited memory, or outdated connectivity, leading to longer cycle times, difficulties integrating modern protocols like OPC UA or PROFINET, and higher costs when migrating from older systems like Series 90-70. This becomes critical in applications requiring deterministic execution, secure remote access, or expansion to distributed I/O in harsh conditions. The GE IC695CPE310-AC addresses these as a mid-range RX3i controller with a powerful 1.1 GHz Atom processor, providing enhanced speed and embedded communications for high-reliability industrial automation.

The GE IC695CPE310-AC is particularly valuable when upgrading from earlier RX3i models like the IC695CPU310, offering roughly three times the processing power while maintaining compatibility with existing logic—allowing seamless transitions without rewriting applications. It supports demanding tasks such as multi-loop control or data-intensive monitoring, with built-in Ethernet for SRTP and Modbus TCP, plus serial ports for legacy integration. Common in plants expanding connectivity for IIoT readiness or needing robust performance in process control environments, the GE IC695CPE310-AC ensures system stability and signal reliability through features like energy pack support for graceful shutdowns and extensive diagnostics in industrial automation setups.

The GE IC695CPE310-AC serves as the central controller in RX3i racks, occupying two slots (typically in the main rack) and interfacing with local or remote I/O over the dual PCI/serial backplane for high-speed module communication.

It executes user logic programmed in PAC Machine Edition, supporting Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram, or C, while managing embedded ports: one RJ-45 Ethernet for 10/100 Mbps networking (SRTP server/client, Modbus TCP, EGD), one RS-232, and one RS-485 for serial protocols like Modbus RTU or SNP. Positioned at the core of the automation stack, it coordinates field devices, option modules (e.g., PROFINET controllers), and supervisory systems, with USB for direct configuration uploads. The GE IC695CPE310-AC integrates natively with RX3i I/O families, including legacy Series 90-30 modules, and supports redundancy via external synchronization in suitable configurations, delivering low-latency performance in real-time process control.

Selecting the GE IC695CPE310-AC delivers engineered speed and capacity for mid-range applications, where its 1.1 GHz processor and 10 MB user memory support complex logic execution with faster boolean scan times, ensuring consistent performance even as program size grows.

This built-in Ethernet and serial connectivity reduces engineering overhead by eliminating separate communication modules for basic networking, while compatibility with energy packs preserves run-time data during outages—enhancing maintenance efficiency through predictable shutdowns and quick restarts. In daily operation, features like extensive diagnostics and firmware upgradability contribute to long-term reliability, minimizing unplanned interruptions in process control environments. The GE IC695CPE310-AC also facilitates secure, standards-based integration, lowering risks associated with custom interfaces.

Overall, its balance of power, ports, and backward compatibility provides sustained value, extending the life of RX3i investments while enabling modern enhancements.

The GE IC695CPE310-AC is often deployed in water and wastewater treatment facilities, managing distributed pump and valve control with embedded networking for SCADA integration, ensuring critical system uptime in continuous flow processes under variable loads.

In manufacturing lines for food and beverage or pharmaceuticals, it handles recipe management and quality data logging in regulated environments requiring fast scans and reliable Ethernet links. Power distribution substations use it for monitoring and protective relaying in process control setups exposed to electrical noise, supporting high-availability configurations for uninterrupted service.

IC695CPE305 – Lower-cost single-Ethernet variant for less demanding connectivity

IC695CPE330 – Higher-performance dual-core upgrade with more memory

IC695CPU310 – Legacy predecessor for direct drop-in replacement scenarios

IC695CPE400 – Rackless controller alternative with expanded options

IC695CRU320 – Redundancy CPU for high-availability synchronized pairs

IC695ACC400 – Energy Pack accessory for run-time data preservation

IC695PNC001 – PROFINET controller module commonly paired for distributed I/O

Before installing the GE IC695CPE310-AC, confirm main rack power supply capacity covers the approximately 10W draw and verify two contiguous slots are available (avoid highest-numbered slots). Check firmware compatibility with your PAC Machine Edition version, prepare Ethernet cabling for the RJ-45 port, and ensure an energy pack is connected if run-time retention is required—test connections prior to powering up.

For ongoing maintenance, periodically monitor front-panel LEDs for status and faults, review system logs via the programmer for trends, and inspect connectors for secure seating in vibratory applications. Firmware updates should be applied per release notes, with backups of logic and configuration. Annual battery checks (if applicable) and dust removal from vents help sustain performance in industrial settings.