GE IC697 Series 90-70 Modules – IC697HSC700

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

GE Fanuc IC697 Series 90-70 Technical Notes

The Evolution of IC697 Architecture

The IC697 platform was introduced as part of GE Fanuc's Series 90-70 product line, designed to compete with Allen-Bradley's PLC-5 and Siemens S5 in large-scale process control applications. The original architecture centered on a VME-based backplane with a 32-bit CPU, supporting up to 12 modules per rack and multi-rack expansion via the IC697BEM731 Bus Expansion Module.

First-generation CPUs (IC697CPU731, IC697CPU771) provided basic ladder logic execution with limited floating-point support. Second-generation units (IC697CPX782, IC697CPX935) introduced structured text programming, enhanced diagnostics, and expanded memory addressing. The IC697CPM790 represented the final evolution of the platform — a high-performance CPU with Ethernet connectivity and compatibility with GE's Proficy Machine Edition software environment.

IC697 Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

CPU Modules

• IC697CPX935: Series 90-70 high-performance CPU, 32 MB user memory, Ethernet port, Proficy ME compatible
• IC697CPX782: Mid-range CPU module, 512 KB program memory, floating-point math, structured text support
• IC697CPU771: Standard CPU, 128 KB memory, ladder logic execution, legacy rack compatible
• IC697CPU731: Entry-level Series 90-70 CPU, 32 KB memory, basic I/O scan, first-generation architecture
• IC697CPM790: Enhanced CPU with built-in Ethernet, expanded diagnostics, final-generation IC697 processor

Digital Input Modules

• IC697MDL250: 32-point 24 VDC discrete input module, isolated, high-density rack mount
• IC697MDL241: 16-point 120 VAC discrete input, optically isolated, standard rack format
• IC697MDL340: 32-point 120 VAC input module, group isolated, suitable for field device interfacing

Digital Output Modules

• IC697MDL350: 32-point 24 VDC output module, sourcing type, 0.5 A per point
• IC697MDL653: 16-point relay output module, Form C contacts, 2 A per point, AC/DC load compatible
• IC697MDL752: 32-point 120 VAC output module, triac-based, zero-crossing switching

Analog Modules

• IC697ALG320: 8-channel analog input, 4–20 mA / 0–10 V selectable, 12-bit resolution
• IC697ALG230: 4-channel analog output, 4–20 mA, 12-bit DAC, loop-powered field devices

Communication & Specialty Modules

• IC697BEM731: Bus Expansion Module, multi-rack I/O extension, fiber or copper backplane link
• IC697CMM741: Communications co-processor, supports Genius Bus, SNP, and serial protocols
• IC697HSC700: High Speed Counter module, 4-channel quadrature encoder input, 1 MHz count rate, position/velocity measurement for motion feedback applications

Power Supply Modules

• IC697PWR710: 120/240 VAC input power supply, 30 W output, standard Series 90-70 rack
• IC697PWR711: High-capacity power supply, 55 W, supports fully populated 10-slot rack with mixed I/O

Accessories

• IC697ACC735: Memory backup battery module, lithium cell, retains program and data RAM during power loss

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete IC697 Parts

DriveKNMS specializes in lifecycle extension support for the IC697 platform, including: locating discontinued CPU and I/O modules with verified firmware revisions; providing tested replacements for failed backplane components; and supplying matched power supply units for specific rack configurations. All obsolete IC697 parts are cross-referenced against GE Fanuc's original part numbering system to ensure compatibility with existing rack and software configurations.

Quality Control for the IC697 Range

IC697 modules present specific test challenges due to their VME backplane architecture and multi-protocol communication interfaces. DriveKNMS applies a structured validation protocol to all IC697 inventory:

• Backplane continuity and slot impedance verification prior to module insertion
• CPU modules: full boot sequence validation, memory addressing test, and Proficy ME communication handshake
• I/O modules: point-by-point functional test under rated voltage and current load conditions
• Communication modules (IC697CMM741, IC697BEM731): protocol stack verification via loopback and live-bus simulation
• High-speed counter modules (IC697HSC700): quadrature encoder signal injection at rated frequency (up to 1 MHz) with count accuracy verification
• Power supplies: output voltage regulation test under full-load and transient conditions, with ripple measurement
• All units are inspected for capacitor aging, corrosion on edge connectors, and EPROM/firmware integrity before dispatch