GE IC670MDL640 | 16-Point 24VDC Discrete Input Module – Field Service Notes

  • Model: IC670MDL640
  • Alt. P/N: IC670MDL640S (revisions), IC670MDL640REP (remanufactured)
  • Product Series: GE Fanuc Field Control Series
  • Hardware Type: 16-point 24VDC discrete input module with positive/negative logic support
  • Key Feature: Single group of 16 inputs supporting both positive and negative logic wiring configurations
  • Primary Field Use: Receives discrete signals from sensors and switches in material handling and assembly line applications
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Part number: GE IC670MDL640
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Description

Hard-Numbers: Technical Specifications

  • Input Type: Discrete (Positive/Negative Logic Selectable)
  • Number of Points: 16 channels (single group)
  • Rated Voltage: 24 Volts DC
  • Input Voltage Range: 0 to 30 Volts DC
  • User Input Current: 7.5 mA per point at 24 VDC
  • Input Impedance: 3K ohms (typical)
  • On-State Voltage: +15 to +30V (positive logic) / -15 to -30V (negative logic)
  • Off-State Voltage: 0 to +5V (positive logic) / 0 to -5V (negative logic)
  • On-State Current: 3.0 to 8 mA
  • Off-State Current: 0 to 1.5 mA
  • Response Time (On): 6 ms typical / 10 ms maximum
  • Response Time (Off): 6 ms typical / 10 ms maximum
  • Isolation (Input to Logic/Ground): 250 VAC continuous / 1500 VAC for 1 minute
  • Current Draw from BIU: 75 mA typical (all points on) / 83 mA maximum
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (32°F to +140°F)
  • Dimensions: 10.2 x 7.6 x 10.2 cm (4.02″ x 3.00″ x 4.02″)
  • Weight: 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs)
    GE IC670MDL640

    GE IC670MDL640

The Real-World Problem It Solves

Multi-regional manufacturing facilities face compatibility headaches when installing I/O modules across different plant locations where positive and negative logic standards vary by country. The IC670MDL640 eliminates this friction by supporting both logic configurations in a single module, letting you standardize on one part number globally while meeting local wiring conventions.
Where you’ll typically find it:
  • Automotive assembly line limit switches and presence sensors
  • Conveyor system photoeyes and proximity switches
  • Packaging machine start/stop pushbutton stations
This module simplifies inventory management for international operations by reducing SKU complexity while maintaining field flexibility.

Hardware Architecture & Under-the-Hood Logic

The IC670MDL640 is an expansion module that derives its 5V logic power from the Bus Interface Unit (BIU) and requires an external 24VDC supply for input devices. Intelligent processing is handled by the BIU, not the module itself—this input module is essentially a signal conditioning and isolation front-end.
  1. Input signal from field device (0-30VDC) enters through terminal block
  2. Input signal passes through opto-isolation barrier to logic circuitry
  3. On/off threshold detection compares input voltage to logic levels
  4. 3K ohm input impedance draws 7.5mA at 24V for reliable sensing
  5. Individual LEDs for each channel display logic-side status
  6. Data transmitted to BIU via backplane for processor access
  7. PWR LED illuminates when both field power and backplane 5V are present
    GE IC670MDL640

    GE IC670MDL640

Field Service Pitfalls: What Rookies Get Wrong

Logic Configuration MismatchTechnicians often assume all inputs use positive logic by default, then wonder why European equipment wired for negative logic won’t register signals. A pharmaceutical plant in Germany lost a shift of production when maintenance replaced a correctly-configured module with one wired for positive logic.
  • Field Rule: Verify the logic requirement for each input device before wiring—check the PLC program documentation or device datasheet to confirm if sinking or sourcing is required.
Missing External 24VDC Field PowerNew engineers connect the module to the BIU and backplane but forget the separate 24VDC supply needed to power the input sensors. The PWR LED won’t illuminate, and no inputs will function regardless of wiring. This happened at a bottling plant when a contractor replaced a module but didn’t reconnect the external supply.
  • Quick Fix: Always verify two power sources before declaring the module defective: 5V from BIU (for logic) and 24VDC external (for field devices).
Exceeding BIU Current BudgetEach IC670MDL640 draws 83mA maximum from the BIU power supply. Installers sometimes load a BIU with too many modules, causing voltage drop and intermittent input failures. A warehouse automated storage system failed because five input modules exceeded the BIU’s current capacity.
  • Field Rule: Sum the maximum current draw of all modules attached to a single BIU; never exceed the BIU’s rated current output (typically 1-2 amps depending on model).
Please note: The listed price is for reference only and is not binding. Final pricing and terms are subject to negotiation based on current market conditions and availability.