High-Speed Communication Backbone for Series 90-70 Systems
The GE IC697BEM731P serves as a dedicated bus controller module within the Series 90-70 programmable controller platform. This module manages data exchange between the main CPU and remote I/O stations over a high-speed serial bus network. Its compact enclosure measures 250 mm in height, 35 mm in width, and 150 mm in depth, fitting standard VME-style racks. The total weight reaches approximately 0.5 kg, offering lightweight integration without sacrificing functional capability.
This controller supports up to 31 remote drops on a single bus segment, with a maximum cable length of 1500 meters. The following table summarizes the complete technical specifications for this bus communication solution:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Brand | GE Fanuc |
| Product Model | IC697BEM731P |
| Product Category | Bus Controller Module |
| Platform Compatibility | Series 90-70 |
| Network Type | Serial bus (RS-485) |
| Maximum Remote Drops | 31 |
| Maximum Cable Length | 1500 meters |
| Baud Rate | 115.2 kbps |
| Data Format | 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 250 mm x 35 mm x 150 mm |
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V DC (from backplane) |
| Power Consumption | 4.0 W typical |
| Indicators | LED status (power, run, fault) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Isolation Voltage | 1500 V AC (bus-to-backplane) |
Network Architecture and Communication Protocol
The IC697BEM731P employs a master-slave polling protocol for deterministic data exchange with remote I/O stations. This module serves as the bus master, initiating all communication cycles and managing token passing. The serial bus operates at 115.2 kbps, providing sufficient bandwidth for discrete and analog I/O updates. Such deterministic communication ensures consistent scan times for critical control loops.
Remote Drop Configuration and Expansion Capability
Users can connect up to 31 remote drops on a single bus segment, each containing multiple I/O modules. The maximum cable length of 1500 meters accommodates large distributed control systems across extensive facilities. Repeater modules extend this distance further when required by plant layouts. Engineers can therefore scale their I/O count without replacing the existing controller hardware.
Diagnostic Features and Status Indication
LED indicators provide immediate visual feedback for power status, module health, and communication activity. The module also reports detailed diagnostic information to the CPU for system monitoring. These diagnostics help operators identify communication faults or configuration errors quickly. Maintenance teams benefit from these features during routine checks and failure investigations.
Details
| Weight | 0.1 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 25 × 108 × 127 mm |



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