Description
Section 3. Product Introduction
The GE IC693CPU323 is a 10-slot embedded CPU baseplate designed for Series 90-30 PLC systems. It integrates an 80188 processor running at 10MHz, with 12KB of user program memory and a typical scan rate of 0.6ms per 1K logic. The embedded CPU design makes it a cost-effective solution for entry-level industrial control applications.
This baseplate provides 10 full I/O slots since the CPU is embedded in the backplane. It supports up to 320 discrete I/O points, 64 words of analog input, and 32 words of analog output. One serial port supports SNP slave and SNP-X slave protocols for programming and monitoring. Note that this embedded CPU cannot be expanded or changed, and lacks interrupt capability and battery-backed clock—verify with OEM datasheet.
Section 4. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Module Type | 10-slot embedded CPU baseplate |
| Product Line | Series 90-30 |
| CPU Processor | 80188 |
| Clock Speed | 10 MHz |
| User Program Memory | 12KB (6KB prior to Release 7) |
| Typical Scan Rate | 0.6ms per 1K boolean contacts |
| Discrete I/O Capacity | 320 combined input/output points |
| Analog Input | 64 words |
| Analog Output | 32 words |
| Register Memory | 1024 words |
| Timers/Counters | 340 combined |
| Shift Registers | Supported |
| Serial Ports | 1 (SNP Slave, SNP-X Slave protocols only) |
| Baseplate Configuration | 10 I/O slots, 1 power supply slot |
| Expansion Support | No expansion or remote racks |
| Interrupts | Not supported |
| Override Features | Not supported |
| Battery-Backed Clock | Not supported (battery in power supply) |
| PCM/CCM Compatibility | Not recommended |
| Operating Temperature | 0–60°C (32–140°F) |
| Power Requirements | 430mA @ 5VDC (from power supply) |
| Weight | 2.13 lbs (0.96 kg) |
GE IC693CMM321
Section 5. Quality Control Process
1. Incoming VerificationVisually inspect baseplate for bent pins or damage to slot connectors. Verify serial number matches GE Fanuc records. Check for proper labeling and documentation. Reject units with physical damage or missing components.
2. Power-On TestInstall compatible power supply and power on. Verify power supply LEDs indicate proper voltage. Check for normal backplane initialization—listen for relay click. Wait 5 minutes to ensure stable operation.
3. Logic I/O TestInstall I/O modules in slots 1 and 2. Configure simple test program to verify I/O scanning. Test discrete inputs and outputs with digital multimeter. Verify analog input and output functionality with signal generator.
4. Memory and Clock TestVerify user program memory capacity by loading 12KB test program. Test memory retention by powering down for 30 seconds and verifying program integrity (super capacitor backup maintains memory for ~1 hour). Note: No battery-backed clock to test.
5. Serial Communication TestConnect programming terminal to serial port via SNP protocol. Verify successful communication and program upload/download capability. Test SNP-X slave mode with remote monitoring device.
6. Final QC & PackagingDocument all test results and firmware version. Apply QC Passed sticker with test date and technician initials. Package with foam inserts to protect slot connectors during shipping.
Section 6. Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ Non-Expandable ArchitectureIC693CPU323 is an embedded CPU that cannot be changed or upgraded. No expansion racks supported—system is limited to 10 slots total. Plan system architecture accordingly before purchase.
❗ Power Supply DependencyMemory backup battery is located in power supply module. Unplugging power supply disconnects battery from memory circuits. Super capacitor maintains memory for only ~1 hour—avoid prolonged power loss.
❗ PCM/CCM IncompatibilityEmbedded CPU is not recommended for use with CCM (Communication Coprocessor Module) or PCM (Programmable Coprocessor Module) devices. Use dedicated communication option modules instead.
❗ No Advanced FeaturesLacks interrupt capability, override features, and battery-backed clock. These features are not available and cannot be added. Upgrade to modular CPU (IC693CPU331+) if advanced features required.
❗ Serial Protocol LimitationSingle serial port supports only SNP Slave and SNP-X Slave protocols. Cannot operate as SNP master—remote programming only. Add Ethernet module (IC693CMM321) for TCP/IP connectivity.
❗ Memory Capacity DifferencesFirmware Release 7 increased memory from 6KB to 12KB. Verify firmware version before purchasing replacement. Earlier versions cannot be upgraded to 12KB without hardware replacement.
❗ Default Rack NumberEmbedded CPU baseplate is always assigned Rack Number 0. Cannot configure different rack number in software. This affects I/O addressing and system configuration.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
GE IC693CMM321
Section 7. Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility Matrix
- IC693CPU323 → IC693CPU311/313 : Direct replacement (different slot counts)
- IC693CPU323 → IC693CPU331+ (modular) : Incompatible — different baseplate architecture
- IC693CPU323 → IC693CMM311 (CCM) : Not recommended — compatibility issues
- IC693CPU323 → IC693CMM321 (Ethernet) : Compatible — can be installed as option module
- IC693CPU323 → IC693PWR321 (power supply) : Compatible — recommended power supply
- IC693CPU323 → Hand-Held Programmer : Compatible — SNP programming only
Benchmarks
- Logic scan speed: 0.6ms per 1K boolean contacts (typical)
- User program memory: 12KB maximum (Release 7+)
- Memory retention: Up to 1 hour with super capacitor (without power supply battery)
- Discrete I/O response: <1ms typical latency
- Analog conversion time: <10ms typical per channel
- Serial communication speed: Up to 9600 baud (SNP protocol)
- Power-up time: <30 seconds from power-on to normal operation
- Mean time between failures (MTBF): >100,000 hours
