IC687BEM731
Product Name
GE Fanuc IC687BEM731 Profinet Industrial Ethernet Communication Module (VersaMax PLC Dedicated)
(Naming convention explanation for GE VersaMax modules:
- IC687: Base product code identifying the module as part of GE’s VersaMax industrial I/O and communication family (distinguished from “IC697” for Series 90-70 PLCs).
- BEM: Suffix denoting “Ethernet Communication Module”—specifically optimized for industrial Ethernet protocols.
- 731: Model-specific identifier for the Profinet variant (vs. “730” for Modbus TCP/IP or “732” for Ethernet/IP), confirming compatibility with the Profinet standard.
- Core positioning: Acts as the “Profinet gateway” for VersaMax PLCs, enabling seamless integration into Profinet-based automation networks for real-time control and monitoring.
2. Product Description
The GE Fanuc IC687BEM731 is a rugged, industrial-grade Profinet communication module engineered to address high-speed network connectivity challenges in manufacturing (e.g., automotive assembly lines, packaging machinery) and process industries (e.g., food & beverage, pharmaceuticals). As a key component of the VersaMax PLC ecosystem, it delivers four critical capabilities for Profinet network integration:
2.1 Profinet Real-Time (RT) & IRT Compliance
Supports time-sensitive industrial communication:
- Complies with Profinet RT (Real-Time) for cycle times as low as 1ms—suitable for fast-response control tasks (e.g., robot-to-conveyor synchronization).
- Optional Profinet IRT (Isochronous Real-Time) support (via firmware update) for deterministic cycle times (<100µs) in high-precision applications (e.g., CNC machine tool coordination).
- Acts as a Profinet “Device” (slave) to communicate with Profinet “Controllers” (masters) such as Siemens S7 PLCs or Rockwell Allen-Bradley Logix controllers.
2.2 High-Speed Data Transfer & Network Flexibility
Optimizes bandwidth for industrial workflows:
- Ethernet port: 1× 10/100Mbps RJ45 with auto-negotiation (half/full duplex) and auto-crossover (MDI/MDI-X)—eliminates the need for crossover cables.
- Supports Profinet IO-Link (via optional expansion) for connecting IO-Link sensors/actuators, reducing wiring complexity in distributed field setups.