GE PACSystems RX3i Modules: IC695CPE310-ABAH

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 programmable automation controller (PAC) architectures in global heavy industry. Installed across petrochemical complexes, nuclear power stations, offshore platforms, LNG terminals, and continuous-process refineries, the RX3i backplane-based architecture provides deterministic scan-cycle control with high-availability redundancy options. Its universal backplane accepts both legacy Series 90-30 I/O modules and native RX3i modules, making it the preferred migration path for facilities that cannot afford full system replacement. The IC695CPE310-ABAH is a dual-Ethernet CPU module within this ecosystem, supporting embedded SRTP, Modbus TCP, and EGD protocols without requiring an external communications coprocessor.

The Evolution of PACSystems RX3i Architecture

The RX3i platform was introduced by GE Fanuc Automation in the early 2000s as the successor to the Series 90-70 and Series 90-30 controllers. The original CPE305 and CPE310 processors established the 300 MHz Intel architecture baseline. The IC695CPE310 (single Ethernet port) was the first widely adopted CPU in this family, followed by the IC695CPE310-ABAH revision which added a second embedded Ethernet port and revised firmware supporting Enhanced Security and role-based access control. Subsequent generations introduced the CPE330 (dual-core, 1.1 GHz), CPE400 (Linux-based, edge-capable), and CPL410 (IIoT-ready with Node-RED integration). Compatibility across generations is maintained at the backplane and I/O bus level; however, CPU firmware versions must be matched to the Machine Edition Logic Developer programming environment version. Facilities running IC695CPE310-ABAH units are typically on ME 8.x or 9.x toolchains. Migration to CPE400/CPL410 requires a project conversion step and hardware re-rack but preserves ladder logic and function block libraries.

PACSystems RX3i Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

CPU / Controller Modules

• IC695CPE305: 300 MHz single-Ethernet CPU, 5 MB user memory, legacy entry-level controller
• IC695CPE310: 300 MHz single-Ethernet CPU, 10 MB user memory, standard RX3i processor
• IC695CPE310-ABAH: 300 MHz dual-Ethernet CPU, 10 MB user memory, enhanced security firmware revision
• IC695CPE330: Dual-core 1.1 GHz CPU, 64 MB user memory, high-speed motion & process control
• IC695CPE400: Linux-based PAC CPU, 1 GB RAM, supports C/C++ user programs and OPC UA server
• IC695CPL410: IIoT-enabled CPU, Node-RED runtime, MQTT/Sparkplug B, edge analytics capable

Analog I/O Modules

• IC695ALG600: 8-ch universal analog input, configurable per-channel for V/mA/RTD/TC/resistance
• IC695ALG608: 8-ch analog input, 4–20 mA / 0–10 V, 16-bit resolution, HART pass-through
• IC695ALG616: 16-ch analog input, high-density process measurement module
• IC695ALG704: 4-ch analog output, 0–20 mA / ±10 V, 16-bit DAC, isolated outputs
• IC695ALG728: 8-ch analog output, high-density current/voltage output module

Digital I/O Modules

• IC695MDL654: 32-ch 24 VDC digital input, source/sink configurable, group isolated
• IC695MDL664: 32-ch 24 VDC digital output, 0.5 A per point, short-circuit protected
• IC695MDL740: 16-ch 120 VAC digital input, optically isolated, zero-cross detection
• IC695MDL752: 16-ch relay output, Form C contacts, 2 A per point, mixed voltage loads

Communications & Specialty Modules

• IC695ETM001: Single-port 10/100 Ethernet module, SRTP/Modbus TCP/EGD, for CPE305 expansion
• IC695PBM300: PROFIBUS DP master module, up to 125 slave devices, 12 Mbps
• IC695CMM002: Serial communications module, 2-port RS-232/RS-485, Modbus RTU/SNP/SNPX
• IC695RMX128: Redundancy memory exchange module, hot-standby CPU synchronization

Power Supply Modules

• IC695PSA040: 40 W AC power supply, 120/240 VAC input, 5 VDC/3.3 VDC backplane output
• IC695PSD040: 40 W DC power supply, 24–48 VDC input, backplane regulated output

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete PACSystems RX3i Parts

GE has transitioned active development to the CPE400 and CPL410 platforms. The IC695CPE310 and IC695CPE310-ABAH are classified as mature/sustaining products, meaning no new feature firmware is issued, but security patches and hardware replacements remain available through authorized channels. DriveKNMS maintains a dedicated inventory of RX3i modules sourced from decommissioned plant assets, factory overstock, and certified refurbishment pipelines. Each unit is cross-referenced against GE's hardware revision matrix to confirm firmware compatibility before dispatch. For end-users operating legacy RX3i racks in long-lifecycle applications (nuclear, defense, water treatment), DriveKNMS provides multi-year supply agreements with guaranteed lead times. Modules such as IC695CMM002, IC695PBM300, and IC695RMX128 are no longer manufactured; DriveKNMS holds tested stock of these items and can provide certificates of conformance upon request.

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 32-bit parallel bus with arbitration logic) and embedded firmware state machines. DriveKNMS applies the following test protocol to all RX3i units: (1) Visual inspection against GE hardware revision documentation — PCB revision codes, ASIC markings, and capacitor date codes are verified. (2) Backplane bus continuity test using a dedicated RX3i rack fixture with a known-good CPE310 reference CPU. (3) Firmware version readback via Machine Edition programmer — units are confirmed to boot to the correct firmware revision and pass self-diagnostics (I/O Fault Table clear). (4) For CPU modules: Ethernet port link negotiation test at 10/100 Mbps, SRTP connection establishment, and EGD exchange validation. (5) For analog modules: calibration verification against NIST-traceable reference sources at 0%, 50%, and 100% of rated input range. (6) Burn-in: 48-hour powered soak at 40°C ambient prior to shipment.