GE IC697BEM764 VME DLAN/DLAN+ Interface Module

Description

In industrial automation environments where variable speed drives play a central role, integrating legacy drive networks with modern PLC control can often create bottlenecks in data exchange, leading to delayed responses, complex custom programming, or reliance on multiple gateways. This becomes particularly challenging in systems using GE’s older drive families like DC2000, AC2000, or DC300, where direct, high-reliability communication is needed for coordinated motion, status monitoring, and fault handling in process control applications.

The GE IC697BEM764 addresses this by providing a dedicated, high-performance interface between GE Drive Systems’ DLAN/DLAN+ networks and the Series 90-70 PLC platform, enabling seamless control of drives directly from PLC logic. It’s essential in situations requiring deterministic communication for drive parameters, such as speed references, torque limits, or diagnostic data, without the overhead of serial converters or third-party middleware. In industrial automation setups focused on high reliability and minimal latency, the GE IC697BEM764 ensures robust network integration, supporting goals like synchronized multi-axis control or rapid fault isolation. Engineers frequently specify it when modernizing existing drive installations or expanding Series 90-70 systems in environments with electromagnetic noise or long cable runs, as it maintains signal integrity and supports critical uptime in process control and drive-heavy applications.

The GE IC697BEM764 operates as a VME-based communication module, bridging the Series 90-70 PLC’s VME backplane with DLAN (multi-drop serial) or DLAN+ (ARCNET-based high-speed) networks used by GE drives. It installs directly into a VME integrator rack or standard Series 90-70 slot, allowing the PLC CPU to read/write drive data as native I/O points.

In the automation stack, it sits at the communication layer, handling protocol translation so application programs in the PLC—whether ladder logic or structured text—can command drives and receive feedback without custom code blocks. Configured via software (no DIP switches or jumpers), it supports either DLAN or DLAN+ mode (but not both simultaneously on one module), with built-in diagnostics including three status LEDs for quick local troubleshooting and network health reporting back to the controller.

The module integrates with third-party VME cards if needed, positioning it flexibly in hybrid systems, and provides restart functionality via an onboard pushbutton for recovery without rack power cycling. Overall, the GE IC697BEM764 acts as a reliable protocol gateway in the Series 90-70 architecture, streamlining drive integration while leveraging the platform’s open VME bus for broader system compatibility.

Selecting the GE IC697BEM764 delivers consistent, low-latency communication that enhances overall system reliability in drive-intensive setups. Engineered for the demanding electrical environments around motors and inverters, it handles noise and transients inherent to drive networks, ensuring long-term performance without intermittent dropouts that could disrupt production.

This direct integration reduces engineering overhead by mapping drive data straightforwardly into PLC variables, freeing your team from maintaining separate communication scripts or buffers. In applications with multiple drives, the module’s deterministic behavior supports precise coordination, contributing to smoother operations and fewer alarms from unsynchronized commands.

Maintenance efficiency improves through its onboard diagnostics—LEDs and status registers allow rapid identification of network issues, often resolving problems without module removal or extended downtime. Over years of service, the GE IC697BEM764 proves its value by sustaining high availability in legacy drive systems, protecting investments in existing hardware while enabling incremental upgrades.

The GE IC697BEM764 is commonly deployed in manufacturing lines with coordinated drive systems, such as pulp and paper mills where multiple DC drives require tight speed synchronization for continuous uptime during web handling. In metals processing, it’s used for rolling mills or extruders operating in harsh conditions with high vibration and electrical noise, delivering fast data cycles for torque and position feedback.

Power generation auxiliary systems often incorporate it for turbine or pump controls within process control environments, ensuring critical system uptime through reliable drive monitoring. These sectors appreciate its ability to bridge older DLAN networks in large-scale facilities, supporting modular expansions and high-reliability communication essential for 24/7 operations.

GE IC697BEM763 – Standard DLAN interface variant for non-VME specific applications

GE IC697BEM731 – Genius I/O Bus Controller for distributed discrete/fieldbus integration

GE IC697CMM742 – Ethernet TCP/IP interface module for modern network connectivity

GE IC697CPX935 – High-performance CPU often paired in the same rack for complex logic

GE IC697CPX782 – Alternative CPU with expanded memory for larger programs

GE IC697PWR710 – Compatible power supply module for rack systems

GE IC697ALG320 – Analog output module frequently used alongside for drive commands

Prior to installing the GE IC697BEM764, confirm rack type—it’s optimized for VME integrator racks but compatible with standard Series 90-70—and check available backplane current against its 3.5A draw to avoid overloading the power supply. Ensure adequate rack ventilation, as operating within 0-60°C relies on good airflow, and verify that your programming software version supports DLAN configuration.

Network cabling should follow DLAN/DLAN+ guidelines: use shielded twisted pair for serial mode or coaxial for ARCNET, with proper termination to prevent reflections. During setup, initialize via the configurator to select protocol mode and map data blocks.

For maintenance, routinely check the three LEDs for module OK, network status, and activity—these provide immediate insight into faults. Log diagnostic registers periodically through the PLC for trending, and inspect the DLAN connector for secure attachment, especially in vibrating environments. A functional network loop test during scheduled maintenance confirms ongoing protocol integrity without major disruption.