GE IC698CHS009 9-Slot Rear-Mount Rack

Description

In modern industrial automation and process control environments, scaling control systems to accommodate growing I/O requirements, advanced CPUs, or third-party VME modules often runs into physical constraints like limited rack space, manual configuration hassles, or thermal management issues in dense panels. Legacy migrations from Series 90-70 to PACSystems RX7i further complicate this, as engineers need backward compatibility without sacrificing performance or forcing complete panel redesigns.

The GE IC698CHS009 tackles these challenges head-on by offering a versatile 9-slot rear-mount rack that supports a mix of RX7i CPUs, I/O modules, Series 90-70 legacy hardware, and standard VME cards—all in a compact footprint suitable for wall or panel installation. This rack becomes essential in situations demanding modular expansion in space-constrained cabinets, such as retrofitting existing enclosures or building distributed control architectures where high reliability and ease of integration are priorities. With built-in slot sensing and automatic daisy-chaining of bus signals, the GE IC698CHS009 eliminates traditional jumper settings and DIP switches, streamlining setup and reducing configuration errors that could otherwise delay commissioning in critical process control applications. Its compatibility with high-power modules and optional cooling fans ensures stable operation under heavy loads, making it a go-to choice for achieving system stability and long-term scalability in industrial automation projects.

The GE IC698CHS009 serves as a VME-based backplane chassis in the PACSystems RX7i platform, providing nine slots for housing the controller ecosystem while supporting rear mounting for efficient cable management in enclosed panels. Slot 0 is dedicated to the power supply, slot 1 typically hosts the CPU (with provisions for double-width units spanning slots 1-2), and the remaining slots accommodate single- or double-width I/O, communication, or VME modules.

It integrates into the automation stack as the foundational hardware layer, connecting via the high-speed VME64 backplane for data transfers up to 64 bits per cycle. The rack automatically senses occupied slots for I/O addressing—handled entirely through Machine Edition software—and daisy-chains interrupt acknowledge and bus grant lines without manual intervention. Power distribution comes from compatible RX7i supplies (like IC698PSA100 or PSA350), and it supports optional fan assemblies for active cooling when deploying heat-intensive modules such as high-performance CPUs. While primarily for local I/O, it fits seamlessly in multi-rack setups with expansion via bus transmitter modules, maintaining deterministic performance across Genius, Ethernet, or other fieldbus integrations common in process control environments.

Deploying the GE IC698CHS009 gives you a rack engineered for enduring flexibility in mixed-module environments, where backward compatibility with Series 90-70 hardware allows cost-effective migrations while preserving investments in existing I/O. The slot-sensing and software-driven configuration reduce engineering overhead significantly—no more tracing jumper settings during troubleshooting or expansions.

Thermal management options, like compatible fan trays, ensure long-term performance consistency even in densely populated setups, preventing overheating-related faults that plague older racks. Grounding provisions and robust construction contribute to EMI resistance and overall system reliability, supporting high-uptime demands without frequent interventions. In practice, this translates to smoother project execution and lower maintenance burdens, as the GE IC698CHS009 adapts to evolving needs—whether adding VME third-party cards or scaling RX7i I/O—while maintaining clean panel layouts through its rear-mount design.

The GE IC698CHS009 is widely used in power generation plants for housing controllers managing turbine auxiliaries or substation automation, where its compatibility with legacy modules supports gradual upgrades amid harsh ambient conditions and demands for critical system uptime. In water treatment facilities, it accommodates expanded I/O for pump sequencing and monitoring in distributed process control environments.

Manufacturing lines in metals or automotive sectors often leverage it for mixed RX7i and VME setups handling motion control or vision systems, benefiting from the rack’s space-efficient design in control cabinets requiring fast module swaps during maintenance. Across these industrial automation applications—frequently involving multi-rack expansions or high-density installations—the GE IC698CHS009 delivers the structural foundation for reliable, scalable performance in continuous operations.

IC698CHS017 – 17-slot rear-mount alternative for larger I/O expansions

IC698CHS117 – 17-slot front-mount version for different panel access needs

IC698CHS109 – Companion 9-slot rack with alternative mounting or slot configuration

IC697CHS791 – Series 90-70 9-slot front-mount rack for legacy-focused systems

IC698PSA100 – 100W power supply commonly installed in slot 0

IC698CPE020 – High-performance RX7i CPU often deployed in slot 1

IC697ACC721 – Optional fan assembly for enhanced cooling in dense configurations

Before mounting the GE IC698CHS009, confirm panel space allows for the required clearances—especially 9 inches below if using fans—and verify the enclosure meets IP54 requirements since the rack is open equipment. Check grounding studs for proper AWG #12 connection to earth, and ensure the selected power supply matches module current demands to avoid overloads.

During ongoing use, maintenance centers on visual inspections: confirm module seating and faceplate screws for grounding integrity, monitor for dust buildup in fan-equipped setups, and review system diagnostics in Machine Edition for any backplane faults. Periodic torque checks on mounting hardware prevent vibration issues in industrial settings. If swapping modules, power down the rack unless hot-swap capable components are involved. These straightforward practices help preserve high reliability over extended deployment.