GE Series 90-70 IC697 Modules: IC697MDL940 Discrete Logic Output Module —

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

GE Series 90-70 (IC697) Series: Comprehensive Module Range and Technical Overview

The GE Series 90-70 PLC platform, identified by the IC697 prefix, is one of the most widely deployed programmable logic controller architectures in global heavy industry. Installed across petrochemical complexes, nuclear power generation facilities, offshore oil platforms, and continuous-process refineries, the Series 90-70 established the benchmark for rack-based, high-density I/O control in the 1990s and 2000s. Its 9-slot and 16-slot VME-based backplane architecture supports mixed analog, discrete, and specialty modules within a single chassis, enabling system integrators to configure high-availability control nodes without external communication bridges. The IC697MDL940 — a 32-point 120VAC discrete logic output module — represents the core discrete output layer of this platform, directly switching field devices including solenoids, motor starters, and indicator panels.

The Evolution of IC697 Architecture

The Series 90-70 architecture was introduced by GE Fanuc Automation in the early 1990s as a successor to the Series Six and Series Five PLC families. The platform adopted a VMEbus-compatible backplane, allowing third-party module integration and high-speed inter-module communication at rates up to 32 MB/s. Early CPU modules such as the IC697CPU731 operated at 8 MHz with 32KB of user memory; successive generations culminated in the IC697CPX935 and IC697CPX928, which introduced floating-point math co-processors and expanded memory to 512KB and beyond.

The Series 90-70 coexisted with GE's Series 90-30 (IC693) and Series 90-70 Genius I/O bus, creating a layered control hierarchy common in distributed control system (DCS) architectures of that era. With the introduction of the PACSystems RX7i platform (IC698 prefix) in the mid-2000s, GE provided a direct migration path: the RX7i chassis accepts legacy IC697 I/O modules via a compatibility backplane, preserving field wiring investments while upgrading CPU and communications infrastructure. As of 2026, the IC697 series is in the end-of-life and mature-support phase. GE Vernova (formerly GE Digital / Emerson) no longer manufactures new IC697 hardware; however, the installed base remains extensive, and third-party MRO suppliers such as DriveKNMS continue to provide tested surplus and refurbished units to support long-term plant maintenance cycles.

IC697 Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

The following SKUs represent verified, commonly stocked modules within the GE Series 90-70 IC697 platform, organized by functional category:

CPU Modules

IC697CPU731: 8 MHz CPU, 32KB user memory, Series 90-70 base controller.
IC697CPU771: Enhanced CPU with 128KB memory and floating-point support.
IC697CPU781: High-performance CPU, 512KB memory, math co-processor.
IC697CPX935: Advanced CPU with 10MB memory, Ethernet-ready, RX7i-compatible.
IC697CPX928: Redundancy-capable CPU, 10MB memory, dual-port Ethernet.

Discrete Input Modules

IC697MDL340: 32-point 24VDC discrete input module, sink/source configurable.
IC697MDL640: 32-point 120VAC discrete input, optically isolated, DIN-rail compatible.
IC697MDL653: 16-point 120VAC isolated discrete input, high-noise-immunity design.

Discrete Output Modules

IC697MDL940: 32-point 120VAC discrete logic output, 0.5A per point, relay-driven field switching.
IC697MDL753: 16-point relay output module, 2A per contact, Form C contacts.
IC697MDL740: 32-point 24VDC discrete output, transistor sourcing, 0.5A per point.

Analog I/O Modules

IC697ALG230: 16-channel analog input, 4–20mA / 0–10V selectable, 12-bit resolution.
IC697ALG320: 8-channel analog output, 4–20mA, 12-bit DAC, loop-powered compatible.
IC697ALG440: 16-channel analog input, high-speed, 14-bit resolution, thermocouple-ready.

Communication & Specialty Modules

IC697CMM711: Serial communications module, RS-232/RS-422/RS-485, multi-protocol.
IC697BEM711: Genius Bus Controller, interfaces Series 90-70 CPU to Genius I/O field bus.
IC697PCM711: Programmable co-processor module, user-configurable BASIC/C logic offload.

Power Supply Modules

IC697PWR710: 120/240VAC input power supply, 30W output, standard 9/16-slot chassis.
IC697PWR724: 24VDC input power supply, 30W, battery-backed memory retention support.

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete IC697 Parts

The IC697 series reached end-of-active-production status, and OEM replacement stock is no longer available through standard distribution channels. DriveKNMS maintains a dedicated inventory of tested surplus IC697 modules sourced from decommissioned plant assets, controlled-environment warehouses, and verified MRO liquidation channels. Each unit undergoes functional verification prior to listing. For critical-path procurement — including emergency plant shutdowns, scheduled turnarounds, and long-lead capital projects — DriveKNMS provides same-day quotation on IC697 modules including the IC697MDL940, IC697CPU781, IC697ALG230, and IC697BEM711. Cross-reference requests (e.g., identifying RX7i equivalents for IC697 modules) are handled by our technical team at no charge. Customers operating aging Series 90-70 systems are advised to establish a strategic spare parts buffer covering CPUs, power supplies, and high-cycle discrete output modules such as the IC697MDL940, which are subject to relay contact wear under continuous industrial duty.

Quality Control for the IC697 Range

IC697 modules present specific test challenges due to their VMEbus backplane interface, multi-point I/O density, and age-related component degradation. DriveKNMS applies a structured test protocol to all IC697 units:

Each module is powered in a live IC697 chassis with a known-good CPU and power supply. Discrete output modules including the IC697MDL940 are tested point-by-point under resistive load at rated voltage (120VAC, 0.5A per point) to verify triac or relay switching integrity. Analog modules are calibrated against a traceable reference standard with full-range linearity verification. CPU modules are loaded with a diagnostic ladder program that exercises all memory regions, math functions, and communication ports. Modules exhibiting intermittent faults, degraded output drive, or backplane communication errors are quarantined and not listed for sale. All tested units are shipped with an individual test record and a 12-month warranty against functional failure.