Product Overview
The GE IC697CPM790-GD is a high-performance Central Processing Unit (CPU) module for the GE Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system, a flagship platform in industrial automation for demanding control applications. This module serves as the intelligent core and central nervous system of the PLC rack, responsible for executing the user-defined control logic, managing I/O (Input/Output) data exchange, handling communication tasks, and coordinating all system functions. Based on an Intel 486DX2 microprocessor, the GE IC697CPM790-GD delivers the robust computational power required for complex, high-speed, and data-intensive automation tasks, solidifying its position as a critical component for system integrators and end-users maintaining or operating legacy 90-70 based infrastructure.
As the main controller, the IC697CPM790-GD features 1 Megabyte of battery-backed memory for storing the control program, configuration data, and register values, ensuring program retention during power cycles. It supports a large I/O capacity, capable of managing configurations across multiple racks. A key feature is its integrated Genius communications capability, allowing it to act as a controller on a high-speed Genius LAN for distributed I/O and peer-to-peer messaging. The GE IC697CPM790-GD is designed for reliability in industrial environments, offering features like a built-in real-time clock, comprehensive system diagnostics, and a lithium battery for memory backup. Its value lies in providing a stable, powerful, and communicative control foundation for extensive automation systems in industries ranging from manufacturing to critical infrastructure.
Main Features and Advantages
The GE IC697CPM790-GD CPU module stands out for its combination of processing power, communication flexibility, and large memory capacity, making it suitable for complex and distributed control applications.
High-Performance Processing and Large Memory: At the heart of the IC697CPM790-GD is an Intel 486DX2 microprocessor, providing significant computational power for executing complex ladder logic, performing data handling, and running arithmetic functions swiftly. This enables the control of fast processes and intricate sequences. Complementing this is a full 1 Megabyte of user memory, which is substantial for its era. This large capacity allows for extensive control programs, substantial data table storage for recipes and logs, and the use of more advanced programming techniques without memory constraints, supporting sophisticated automation strategies.
Integrated Genius Communication and Versatile Serial Ports: A defining advantage of this CPU is its embedded Genius Bus Controller. The Genius LAN is a high-speed, peer-to-peer serial network that allows the IC697CPM790-GD to communicate directly with distributed Genius I/O blocks and other Genius-enabled devices (like other PLCs or drives) with deterministic performance. This facilitates highly distributed control architectures. Additionally, the two onboard configurable serial ports (CH1 and CH2) provide flexible connectivity for programming terminals (using SNP or SNPX protocol), operator interfaces (HMIs), bar code scanners, weigh scales, or other serial devices, reducing the need for additional communication modules in many cases.
Robust System Diagnostics and Reliability: The module is engineered for high availability. Comprehensive diagnostic LEDs provide instant visual status on CPU operation, communication activity, and fault conditions, enabling quick troubleshooting. The battery-backed memory and real-time clock ensure that the control program and critical timing data are preserved during power outages. Its rugged industrial design allows it to operate reliably across a standard temperature range in demanding factory environments. The GE IC697CPM790-GD provides a dependable and powerful control engine for mission-critical 90-70 systems.
