GE IC697CMM742-LL TCP/IP Ethernet Interface Module (Type 2)

Description

The GE IC697CMM742-LL tackles a persistent pain point in legacy industrial automation setups: the need for reliable, high-speed Ethernet connectivity in older GE Series 90-70 PLC systems without compromising determinism or introducing excessive latency. In many process control and manufacturing environments still running Series 90-70 racks—particularly those handling distributed I/O, supervisory data exchange, or integration with HMIs and higher-level systems—engineers frequently encounter limitations with slower serial links or proprietary networks that struggle with modern data volumes, remote access demands, or interoperability requirements. The GE IC697CMM742-LL provides a dedicated TCP/IP Ethernet interface (Type 2) that bridges these gaps, enabling seamless network integration while preserving the deterministic performance critical for real-time control loops.

This module becomes essential when facilities need to modernize communication without a full PLC replacement, such as during phased upgrades, adding SCADA connectivity, enabling peer-to-peer data sharing among PLCs, or supporting remote diagnostics in geographically dispersed plants. Common scenarios include production lines where broadcast or directed messaging is required for coordinated machine control, or where legacy systems must interface with newer Ethernet-based devices and software. By delivering robust Ethernet capabilities, the GE IC697CMM742-LL helps maintain high reliability in I/O signal exchange and process control, reducing risks associated with outdated networking like communication bottlenecks or vulnerability to single-point failures in non-redundant setups.

The GE IC697CMM742-LL functions as a plug-in Ethernet Interface module for the GE Series 90-70 PLC rack, occupying a single slot and acting as the primary gateway for TCP/IP communications. It connects the PLC CPU to an Ethernet LAN through three network ports (typically supporting AUI, AAUI, and 10Base-T or similar transceiver options in this revision), allowing high-performance data exchange with other Series 90 PLCs, GE Fanuc HMIs like CIMPLICITY, third-party devices, or supervisory systems. The module handles both broadcast exchanges for global data sharing and directed messaging for targeted communications, executing protocol processing independently to offload the main CPU and maintain fast cycle times.

In the automation stack, it sits directly in the CPU rack alongside the main processor (compatible with high-performance CPUs running Release 6.00 or later), interfacing via the backplane for tight integration with ladder logic and application programs. It supports standard Ethernet IEEE 802.3 CSMA/CD, providing reliable network access with built-in diagnostics via Station Manager software for monitoring traffic, errors, and configuration. Features like restart button functionality (for LED tests, restarts, software loads, or maintenance modes) and four status LEDs (MODULE OK, LAN ONLINE, SERIAL ACTIVE, STATUS) offer clear visibility into operational health without needing external tools. This positioning makes the GE IC697CMM742-LL a straightforward way to add modern networking to legacy racks, supporting applications that demand consistent, low-latency communication without overhauling the entire control architecture.

Deploying the GE IC697CMM742-LL yields significant advantages in system longevity and operational flexibility for facilities invested in Series 90-70 platforms. Engineered for reliable Ethernet connectivity in demanding industrial settings, it ensures consistent performance by handling network protocol overhead separately from the PLC scan cycle, which preserves deterministic control execution even as data traffic increases. This offloading reduces CPU burden, helping maintain tight timing in critical processes and minimizing the chance of scan overruns during peak communication loads.

Maintenance teams benefit from streamlined diagnostics—the integrated Station Manager and front-panel LEDs allow quick identification of network issues, cable faults, or configuration problems without specialized equipment. Over the long term, this module supports easier integration with modern tools, such as remote monitoring or data historians, while reducing engineering overhead associated with custom gateways or protocol converters. The result is higher overall system availability, lower risk during upgrades, and extended service life for existing control investments.

The GE IC697CMM742-LL sees widespread use in industries reliant on robust, legacy-compatible networking, such as power generation, oil & gas processing, and heavy manufacturing. In power plants or utilities, it enables reliable data exchange between distributed PLCs controlling turbines, switchgear, or auxiliary systems, supporting critical system uptime where communication delays could impact grid stability or safety interlocks. In continuous process environments like chemical or petrochemical facilities, it facilitates HMI integration and peer-to-peer coordination across large plant floors, handling fast data cycles amid electrical noise and harsh conditions. Automotive or metals production lines also deploy it for machine-to-machine synchronization, ensuring seamless operation in vibration-heavy or high-throughput settings that demand uninterrupted Ethernet links.

Compatible or alternative products include:

IC697CMM742 (base revision) – Standard Type 2 Ethernet interface, often interchangeable depending on firmware needs.

IC697CMM741 – Earlier Type 1 Ethernet module, suitable for less demanding applications but with reduced performance.

IC693CMM321 – Series 90-30 equivalent Ethernet module, for migration or smaller rack comparisons.

IC693CPU364 – Embedded Ethernet CPU in Series 90-30, alternative where full CPU replacement is considered.

IC697BEM731 – Genius Bus Controller module, for complementary Genius LAN integration in hybrid networks.

IC697CPU772 – High-performance Series 90-70 CPU often paired with this Ethernet module.

IC697CMM711 – Serial communications module, useful as fallback or supplemental for non-Ethernet links.

Before installing the GE IC697CMM742-LL, confirm compatibility with your Series 90-70 CPU firmware (requires Release 6.00 or later for full functionality) and ensure the rack power supply provides adequate +5 VDC and +12 VDC rails. Verify transceiver or cabling matches your network topology—AUI for older coax setups or twisted-pair adapters as needed—and allocate sufficient cabinet space for airflow around the module to avoid thermal issues in enclosed racks. During commissioning, use the restart button to cycle through LED tests and confirm proper boot-up, then configure IP settings via Station Manager or programming software.

Ongoing maintenance involves periodic checks of the four front LEDs during routine inspections to spot anomalies like LAN OFFLINE or MODULE faults early. Inspect Ethernet connectors and cables for wear, especially in environments with vibration or contaminants, and clean as necessary. Use Station Manager commands periodically to review error logs, traffic statistics, and network tallies for proactive issue detection. Firmware updates, when available from Emerson support, should be applied during planned outages to address any known bugs or enhance compatibility.