GE IC695CPE310-GW RX3i Central Processing Unit (2-slot)

Description

In industrial automation and process control systems, many facilities rely on aging RX3i or Series 90-30 controllers that struggle with modern demands like faster scan times, larger program storage, onboard data logging, or basic cybersecurity. As processes grow more complex—adding motion control, advanced alarming, or integration with SCADA/MES systems—older CPUs become bottlenecks, leading to slower response, limited memory for tags and logic, and increased risk of obsolescence without a costly full-platform replacement.

The GE IC695CPE310-GW addresses this as a mid-range PACSystems RX3i controller that drops into existing universal backplanes, delivering a 1.1 GHz Atom processor and 10 MB of user memory for substantially improved performance over legacy models like the CPU310. It maintains full compatibility with existing IC695 I/O, Genius buses, and VersaMax remote drops while adding embedded Ethernet, dual serial ports, and USB for modern connectivity. This enables seamless upgrades that preserve field wiring and proven logic, providing high reliability in industrial automation environments where downtime for migration is unacceptable.

The GE IC695CPE310-GW is particularly essential during system expansions requiring more I/O points (up to 32K discrete/analog), enhanced diagnostics, or basic network integration without external modules. It supports applications needing signal reliability and modular growth in process control, such as adding historian trends or third-party device interfaces while keeping the core control deterministic and robust.

The GE IC695CPE310-GW installs in any compatible slot pair on the RX3i universal backplane (typically the primary CPU position) and uses the high-speed PCI/serial bus to scan local and expansion racks directly. It executes user logic in Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block, or C, with up to 512 blocks for organized programming.

Communication options include a built-in 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port supporting SRTP, Modbus TCP, and EGD for programmer/HMI access, plus RS-232 and RS-485 serial ports for ASCII or Modbus RTU devices. A USB master port simplifies application uploads/downloads or firmware updates without a PC connection. The included energy pack ensures controlled shutdown and retains configuration during power loss.

Diagnostics feature front-panel LEDs for power, run/stop, faults, and port status, plus extensive internal reporting via reference tables. In the automation stack, the GE IC695CPE310-GW serves as the core logic engine for mid-size systems, bridging legacy field I/O to plant networks while supporting add-on PROFINET controllers for distributed devices.

Deploying the GE IC695CPE310-GW provides the processing headroom needed for reliable execution of larger programs, with Boolean scan rates often 2-3× faster than older RX3i CPUs—ensuring consistent performance in time-critical loops. Its expanded memory supports extensive symbolic tagging, data logging, and custom function blocks, delivering long-term performance without frequent register management.

Maintenance efficiency increases through built-in diagnostics and the energy pack’s run-time retention, while hot-swap support minimizes outages during upgrades. Integration remains straightforward in the RX3i ecosystem, leveraging Proficy Machine Edition for configuration and reducing engineering overhead compared to adding separate communication modules.

The real value emerges in extended system life and lower migration costs: preserve investments in I/O and wiring while gaining modern features like USB portability and embedded Ethernet. The GE IC695CPE310-GW ensures robust, future-resistant control for years in demanding environments.

The GE IC695CPE310-GW finds common use in manufacturing lines, such as packaging or assembly, where mid-range processing handles sequencing, discrete control, and basic historian functions under continuous uptime requirements.

Water treatment and wastewater plants deploy it for pump station logic and monitoring, supporting serial integration with legacy instruments in harsh conditions with vibration or humidity.

In material handling and batch processing facilities, it manages conveyor systems or recipe control, providing high reliability for fast data cycles and modular expansions in process control environments needing deterministic performance.

IC695CPE310-AC – Earlier firmware revision for baseline compatibility

IC695CPE310-AB – Standard production revision with minor enhancements

IC695CPE305 – Lower-memory (5 MB) single-slot variant for compact racks

IC695CPE302 – Entry-level with 2 MB memory and Gigabit ports

IC695CPE330 – Higher-performance dual-core with 64 MB memory

IC695CPU310 – Legacy predecessor for direct replacement path

IC695ACC400 – Energy pack (included, but spares available)

IC695PNC001 – Add-on PROFINET controller for distributed I/O

Before installing the GE IC695CPE310-GW, confirm Proficy Machine Edition version supports the target (typically 8.0 or later) and that the energy pack is charged—connect it first to avoid startup faults. Check backplane power supply capacity for the added draw and ensure rack slots are free of legacy restrictions.

If upgrading from CPU310, note minor port differences (e.g., no 5V on RS-232 pin) and recompile any custom C blocks. Prepare IP settings offline and test serial cabling continuity, as the module relies on proper grounding for noise immunity.

Ongoing maintenance involves checking energy-pack health via diagnostic bits every few months, replacing it every 5-7 years, and reviewing LEDs for port or fault indications during rounds. Apply only signed firmware updates from Emerson, and maintain a pre-configured spare for quick swaps in critical setups.