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GE IC697CPU771 Series 90-70 Expandable PLC CPU

  • Model: IC697CPU771
  • Brand: GE Fanuc / GE Intelligent Platforms
  • Series: Series 90-70 PLC
  • Core Function: Real-time PLC logic execution
  • Product Type: Expandable Central Processing Unit
  • Key Specs: 12 MHz 80C186 processor, 2K discrete I/O, up to 512 KB expansion memory
  • Condition: New Original / New Surplus Available
  • Application: Machine control, process automation, material handling systems
Categories: , , , , SKU: IC697CPU771 Brand:

Description

Key Technical Specifications

  • Module Type: Expandable Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Platform: GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC
  • Catalog Number: IC697CPU771
  • Processor: Intel 80C186 microprocessor
  • Processor Speed: 12 MHz
  • Boolean Execution Speed: 0.4 microseconds per Boolean instruction
  • Discrete I/O Capacity: 2,048 points maximum (any combination of inputs and outputs)
  • Analog I/O Capacity: Up to 8,000 analog I/O points
  • Memory Type: Battery-backed CMOS RAM expansion memory
  • Maximum Expansion Memory: Up to 512 KB
  • Backplane Interface: VME C.1 standard
  • Rack Position: Slot 1 of IC697 rack
  • Power Requirement: 5 V DC backplane supply, approximately 1.1 A with expansion memory
  • Serial Communication: RS-422 compatible programmer port
  • Programming Software: Logicmaster 90-70, VersaPro, Proficy Machine Edition
  • Operation Modes: RUN, STOP, RUN with outputs enabled/disabled
  • Status Indicators: MODULE OK, RUN, OUTPUTS ENABLED LEDs
  • Battery Backup: IC697ACC701 lithium battery
  • Supported I/O: IC697 discrete and analog I/O modules, IC660/IC661 Genius I/O modules
  • Configuration Method: Software configuration, no DIP switches or jumpers required

 

Product Introduction

The GE Fanuc IC697CPU771 is a Series 90-70 expandable PLC CPU designed for real-time control of industrial machines, process equipment, and material handling systems. It uses a 12 MHz 80C186 processor and communicates with Series 90-70 I/O and intelligent option modules through the VME C.1 backplane architecture.

The CPU771 supports up to 2K discrete I/O points, 8K analog I/O points, and expandable battery-backed memory up to 512 KB. It remains common in installed Series 90-70 systems where migration projects are delayed due to validated machine logic, spare inventory requirements, or production downtime concerns. Verify firmware revision, memory board type, and programming software compatibility before replacement.

 

Installation & Configuration Guide

 

Stage 1: Pre-Installation Preparation (15–20 minutes)

⚠️ Safety First:

  • Notify operations before stopping the PLC system.
  • Place the controlled machine or process into a safe condition.
  • Apply lockout/tagout procedures before removing rack power.
  • Allow capacitors and power supplies to discharge before handling hardware.

Tools Required:

  • ESD wrist strap
  • PH1 screwdriver
  • Digital multimeter
  • Wire labels
  • Smartphone/camera for documentation

Data Backup:

  • Upload and save the existing Series 90-70 PLC program.
  • Record CPU catalog number and revision letter.
  • Document memory expansion board type.
  • Photograph rack layout and module positions.
  • Record communication settings.
  • Verify battery condition.

⚠️ Compatibility Check:

Confirm the replacement CPU is the same model family. The IC697CPU771 requires an IC697 Series 90-70 rack and communicates through the VME C.1 backplane. It is not a direct replacement for newer PACSystems RX3i CPUs without a migration plan.

IC697CPU771

IC697CPU771

Stage 2: Removing the Old Module (10 minutes)

Steps:

  1. Place the CPU operation switch in STOP position.
  2. Remove rack power.
  3. Disconnect the programmer cable if connected.
  4. Release the CPU retaining clip.
  5. Pull the CPU module straight out of slot 1.
  6. Inspect the backplane connector for dust or bent contacts.

⚠️ Important:
Keep the original CPU until the replacement has completed testing. The old module provides critical reference information including memory configuration and revision details.

 

Stage 3: Installing the New Module (15 minutes)

Steps:

  1. Wear an ESD wrist strap.
  2. Verify the label shows IC697CPU771.
  3. Install the memory expansion board if required.
  4. Insert the CPU into slot 1 of the Series 90-70 rack.
  5. Secure the retaining clip.
  6. Install or replace the IC697ACC701 battery according to procedure.
  7. Restore programmer communication.

Configuration Clone Checklist:

☐ CPU revision verified
☐ Memory expansion installed
☐ Battery installed correctly
☐ Rack configuration restored
☐ Program backup available
☐ Communication settings checked

 

Stage 4: Power-On & Testing (20–30 minutes)

Pre-Power Check:

  • Verify 5 V DC backplane voltage.
  • Confirm CPU seating.
  • Check battery connection.
  • Verify all rack modules are installed correctly.

Power-On Steps:

  1. Restore rack power.
  2. Observe MODULE OK LED.
  3. Confirm RUN status.
  4. Connect programming software.
  5. Download or restore PLC program.
  6. Verify hardware configuration.
  7. Test discrete inputs and outputs.
  8. Confirm machine sequence operation.

⚠️ Troubleshooting Notes:

  • MODULE OK OFF: Check power supply, backplane connection, and CPU hardware.
  • BATTERY fault: Replace IC697ACC701 battery and verify memory retention.
  • PLC will not RUN: Check program validity, CPU revision, and configuration.
  • Communication failure: Verify RS-422 programmer connection and software settings.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the GE IC697CPU771 used for?

The IC697CPU771 is the main processing unit for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC systems. It executes user logic and manages communication with I/O modules and intelligent option modules.

Q2: How much memory does support?

The CPU supports expansion memory boards with up to 512 KB of battery-backed CMOS RAM for program and data storage.

Q3: Is compatible with Series 90-30 or RX3i systems?

No. The belongs to the Series 90-70 platform. It requires compatible IC697 racks and cannot directly replace Series 90-30 or RX3i CPUs.

Q4: Will replacing erase my PLC program?

The CPU replacement does not automatically preserve the original application program. Always upload and save the PLC project before removing the old CPU.

If the memory contents are not transferred, the replacement CPU must be initialized and programmed again.

Q5: Is obsolete?

Yes, the Series 90-70 family is a legacy PLC platform. However, many plants continue operating these controllers because validated control logic, spare parts availability, and production requirements make immediate migration impractical.

New Original, New Surplus, and tested refurbished units are commonly used for lifecycle support.

Q6: What are common replacement mistakes with ?

Common issues include:

  • Installing the wrong CPU revision
  • Forgetting memory expansion compatibility
  • Removing the battery incorrectly
  • Loading an incompatible project file
  • Missing rack configuration differences

Always document the original hardware before replacement.

Q7: Which programming software supports ?

The CPU can be programmed using GE Fanuc Series 90-70 programming tools including Logicmaster 90-70 and later Windows-based engineering software such as VersaPro and Proficy Machine Edition.

Q8: Can support Genius I/O?

Yes. The CPU supports IC660 and IC661 Genius I/O through compatible Genius Bus Controller modules installed in the Series 90-70 rack.