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3. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 16 current inputs |
| Input Range | 4 to 20 mA |
| Resolution | 0.5 µA per LSB |
| Accuracy (at 25 °C) | ±0.07 % of full scale, ±0.1 % of value |
| Input Impedance | 250 Ω, 0.1 % precision shunt |
| Power Requirement | 0.4 A (2 W) at +5 VDC from backplane |
| Required Companion Module | IC697ALG230 Base Converter |
| Maximum Expanders per Base | Up to 7 (total subsystem up to 120 inputs) |
| Update Rate | Dependent on number of expanders (base ~2.4 ms) |
| Configuration | Software only – no jumpers or DIP switches |
| Isolation / Protection | Transient and steady-state overvoltage protection |
| Platform | Series 90-70 VME backplane |
4. Product Introduction
The IC697ALG440 is a 16-channel current expander module for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 analog input subsystem. It works exclusively with the IC697ALG230 Base Converter module and adds 16 channels of 4–20 mA input capacity at a lower cost per point than adding another base converter.
Each expander accepts standard 4–20 mA loop signals through precision 250 Ω shunts. Scaling is applied on a per-module basis. Up to seven expanders can be daisy-chained from one base converter, supporting a maximum of 120 analog inputs in a single subsystem. Configuration is performed entirely in software; no hardware jumpers are required.
IC697ALG440
IC697ALG440
5. Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No data / all channels frozen | Missing or failed Base Converter (ALG230) | ✅ High | Verify IC697ALG230 is present, powered, and configured | The expander cannot operate without a working base converter |
| Individual channels read zero or open | Open loop, broken wire, or failed transmitter | ✅ High | Measure loop current with multimeter in series | Repair field wiring or transmitter before replacing module |
| Channels reading high or saturated | Shorted input or wrong range configuration | ⚠️ Medium | Check configuration for 4–20 mA scaling; measure actual current | Confirm software scaling matches field signals |
| High channel-to-channel variation | Poor grounding or noise on loops | ⚠️ Medium | Check shield grounding and common-mode voltage | Improve grounding and shielding practices |
| Module not recognized by CPU | Backplane connection or power issue | ✅ High | Reseat module; measure +5 V on backplane; check LED status | Clean connectors and verify 5 V power |
| Slow or staggered updates | Too many expanders on one base | ⚠️ Medium | Count number of expanders; review update rate formula | Reduce expanders or accept slower update rate |
If the base converter is healthy and field wiring checks out, replace the IC697ALG440. Always power the rack down and observe ESD precautions when swapping modules.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the IC697ALG440 work by itself? A: No. It is an expander only and must be used with an IC697ALG230 Base Converter module. Without the base converter, the expander has no analog-to-digital conversion capability.
Q: How many expanders can I add to one base converter? A: Up to seven IC697ALG440 (or mixed voltage/current expanders) can be attached to a single IC697ALG230, for a theoretical maximum of 120 analog inputs.
Q: What is the exact input range and resolution? A: 4 to 20 mA with 0.5 µA per LSB resolution. Accuracy is specified as ±0.07 % of full scale and ±0.1 % of value at 25 °C for the expander.
Q: Is this module still in production? A: No. The Series 90-70 platform is obsolete. Remaining stock is new surplus or refurbished. Plan migration to RX3i or newer platforms for long-term support.
Q: Does it require any jumpers or DIP switches? A: No. All configuration (scaling, fault reporting, etc.) is performed in the programming software. There are no hardware switches on the module.
Q: Why is a new-surplus IC697ALG440 priced lower than current analog modules? A: It is an end-of-life Series 90-70 component. New-surplus units come from project overstock, are tested, and are sold at a reduced price while still carrying warranty. Condition is clearly stated as New Original / New Surplus.
Q: What power does it draw? A: 0.4 A (2 W) from the +5 V backplane supply. Field-side current for the 4–20 mA loops must be supplied by the user transmitters or external power supplies.
