GE PACSystems RX3i IC695CRU320CA CPU Module

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

GE PACSystems RX3i Series: Comprehensive Module Range and Technical Overview

The GE PACSystems RX3i platform is one of the most widely deployed distributed control architectures in global heavy industry. Installed across petrochemical complexes, nuclear power stations, offshore oil & gas platforms, and continuous-process refineries, the RX3i backplane-based system provides deterministic scan-cycle control with high-availability redundancy options. The IC695CRU320CA is a CPU Redundancy Unit within this platform, designed for hot-standby configurations where unplanned downtime carries direct safety or financial consequences. Its deployment base spans facilities operated under IEC 61511, ISA-84, and equivalent functional safety standards.

The Evolution of PACSystems RX3i Architecture

GE introduced the PACSystems RX3i platform in the early 2000s as a successor to the Series 90-30 and Series 90-70 PLC families. The RX3i retained backward compatibility with 90-30 I/O modules via the IC694 adapter interface, enabling phased migration without full system replacement. Early CPU generations (IC695CPU310, IC695CPU315) operated on a 300 MHz processor core with 10 MB user memory. Subsequent revisions introduced the IC695CPU320 and IC695CRU320 lines, expanding memory to 64 MB and adding integrated Ethernet ports. The IC695CRU320CA represents the redundancy-capable variant of the CPU320 generation, supporting synchronized primary/secondary switchover with sub-100ms failover. Later platform evolution introduced the IC695CPE302, IC695CPE305, and IC695CPE330 CPU Expansion modules, which added multi-core processing and IEC 61131-3 structured text optimization. As of 2024, GE Vernova (formerly GE Digital / Emerson GE Automation) has transitioned active development to the PACSystems RX3i CPE400 and CPL410 Linux-based controllers, positioning the CRU320 generation in a sustained-support lifecycle phase. Facilities running IC695CRU320CA units should plan for long-term spare parts management rather than platform migration in the near term.

PACSystems RX3i Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

CPU & Redundancy Modules

• IC695CRU320CA: CPU Redundancy Unit, 64 MB user memory, hot-standby switchover, dual Ethernet ports
• IC695CPU320: Standard CPU, 64 MB user memory, single Ethernet, non-redundant configuration
• IC695CPU315: Mid-range CPU, 10 MB user memory, single Ethernet, legacy rack compatible
• IC695CPU310: Entry CPU, 10 MB user memory, serial port only, Series 90-30 migration target
• IC695CPE302: CPU Expansion, dual-core, 64 MB, enhanced motion and process control
• IC695CPE305: CPU Expansion, quad-core, 128 MB, high-speed data logging
• IC695CPE330: CPU Expansion, Linux-based, 512 MB, IIoT-ready with OPC UA native

Analog & Digital I/O Modules

• IC695ALG600: 8-channel analog input, 4–20 mA / 0–10 V, 16-bit resolution
• IC695ALG616: 16-channel analog input, configurable range, HART pass-through capable
• IC695ALG704: 8-channel analog output, 4–20 mA, 16-bit DAC, loop-powered
• IC695MDL664: 32-channel discrete input, 24 VDC, sink/source configurable
• IC695MDL754: 32-channel discrete output, 24 VDC, 0.5 A per point, short-circuit protected
• IC695MDL940: 16-channel relay output, 2 A per contact, AC/DC mixed load

Communication & Network Adapter Modules

• IC695ETM001: Ethernet interface module, 10/100 Mbps, SRTP / Modbus TCP / EGD protocols
• IC695PBM300: PROFIBUS DP master, up to 125 slave nodes, 12 Mbps
• IC695CMM002: Serial communications module, 2-port RS-232/RS-485, DNP3 / Modbus RTU
• IC695RMX128: Redundancy memory exchange module, fiber-optic sync link for CRU320 pairs

Power Supply Modules

• IC695PSA040: 40 W AC power supply, 120/240 VAC input, backplane regulated output
• IC695PSD040: 40 W DC power supply, 24 VDC input, for field-powered installations

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete PACSystems RX3i Parts

The IC695CRU320CA and associated RX3i modules are no longer in active production at GE Vernova's primary manufacturing lines. Lead times through authorized distribution channels frequently exceed 26 weeks for CPU and redundancy modules. DriveKNMS maintains a dedicated inventory of tested RX3i spare parts sourced from decommissioned plant assets, authorized surplus channels, and factory-refurbished stock. For end-users operating under long-term service agreements (LTSA) or plant turnaround schedules, DriveKNMS provides advance reservation of critical spares including IC695CRU320CA units, RMX128 fiber sync modules, and PSA040 power supplies. Lifecycle extension support includes firmware version documentation, configuration backup assistance, and cross-reference to modern replacement options where applicable.

Quality Control for the PACSystems RX3i Range

RX3i modules present specific test challenges due to their high-speed backplane bus (RX3i Universal Backplane operates at 90 MB/s) and the synchronization protocol used by redundant CPU pairs. DriveKNMS applies the following verification procedures to all IC695-series modules prior to dispatch:

• Backplane bus continuity and impedance verification using dedicated RX3i test rack
• CPU module boot sequence validation: firmware version confirmation, memory self-test pass, Ethernet port link negotiation
• For IC695CRU320CA specifically: primary/secondary role assignment test, RMX128 sync link establishment, and forced switchover cycle (minimum 3 cycles) with scan-time continuity measurement
• Analog I/O modules: full-range calibration check at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of rated input/output span
• Burn-in period: 48-hour powered operation under simulated cyclic load prior to final inspection
• All units shipped with test report documentation referencing serial number and firmware revision