Description
Section 3. Product Introduction
The GE IC693CPU331 is a single-slot modular CPU module for Series 90-30 PLC systems, designed as a significant upgrade from embedded CPU baseplates. This module features an 80188 processor running at 10MHz with a faster scan rate of 0.4ms per 1K boolean logic, providing improved performance for complex control applications. With 16KB of user program memory—double the capacity of embedded CPUs—the IC693CPU331 supports larger and more sophisticated programs.
Unlike embedded CPUs like the IC693CPU323, this modular CPU is installed in Slot 1 of a 5-slot or 10-slot baseplate, leaving all other slots available for I/O modules. The IC693CPU331 supports up to 5 total baseplates per system (1 CPU baseplate + 4 expansion/remote), enabling system scalability up to 512 discrete I/O points, 128 words of analog input, and 64 words of analog output. This CPU includes advanced features such as override function, battery-backed clock, and PCM/CCM compatibility—features absent in embedded CPU variants—verify with OEM datasheet.
Section 4. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Module Type | Single-slot CPU module |
| Product Line | Series 90-30 |
| Processor Type | Intel 80188 |
| Clock Speed | 10 MHz |
| User Program Memory | 16KB |
| Typical Scan Rate | 0.4ms per 1K boolean contacts |
| Discrete Input Points – %I | 512 |
| Discrete Output Points – %Q | 512 |
| Discrete Global Memory – %G | 1280 bits |
| Internal Coils – %M | 1024 bits |
| Temporary Coils – %T | 256 bits |
| System Status References – %S | 128 bits |
| Register Memory – %R | 2048 words |
| Analog Inputs – %AI | 128 words |
| Analog Outputs – %AQ | 64 words |
| Timers/Counters | 680 total |
| Shift Registers | Supported |
| Serial Ports | 1 (SNP/SNP-X slave only; requires CMM module for master/CCM/RTU) |
| Communication Modules | Supports Ethernet, FIP, Profibus, GBC, GCM, GCM+ |
| Override Function | Yes |
| Battery-Backed Clock | Yes |
| Interrupts | No |
| Memory Types | RAM, optional EPROM/EEPROM |
| PCM/CCM Compatibility | Yes |
| Total Baseplates per System | 5 (1 CPU baseplate + 4 expansion/remote) |
| Slot Requirement | Must be installed in Slot 1 |
| Operating Temperature | 0–60°C (32–140°F) |
| Power Requirements | 350mA @ 5VDC |
| Weight | 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs) |
GE IC693CMM321
Section 5. Quality Control Process
1. Incoming VerificationVerify module revision (IC693CPU331-xx) and part number. Inspect physical condition for damage, bent pins, or signs of overheating. Confirm battery is present and functional. Check firmware revision and compatibility with target system. Reject units with physical damage or incorrect revision.
2. Power-On TestInstall CPU in Slot 1 of compatible baseplate with proper power supply. Apply power and verify OK LED illuminates within 5 seconds. Confirm battery LED indicates clock backup status. Listen for relay click indicating successful initialization. Allow 5-minute warm-up period.
3. Memory and Clock TestLoad 16KB test program to verify full memory capacity. Test memory retention with power cycle—verify clock maintains time after 30-minute power-off (battery backup). Check checksum validation for program integrity. Test optional EPROM/EEPROM socket functionality if installed.
4. I/O and Expansion TestTest communication with local I/O modules in baseplate. Verify proper addressing for 512 discrete I/O points. Test analog I/O with signal generator and multimeter. Configure and test expansion baseplate (if available)—verify proper communication via expansion cable. Test remote I/O functionality (if applicable).
5. Communication TestVerify serial port communication at 9600 baud via SNP slave protocol. Test SNMP-X slave mode with monitoring device. Install optional CMM module and verify enhanced communication capabilities. Test LAN multidrop functionality with multiple devices.
6. Advanced Features TestVerify override function operates correctly—test force inputs/outputs. Test battery-backed clock accuracy and retention. Verify PCM/CCM compatibility if applicable. Confirm shift register functionality with test logic.
7. Final QC & PackagingDocument all test results including firmware revision, memory test results, and battery status. Apply QC Passed sticker with revision notation. Package with anti-static bag and cushioning. Include installation instructions noting Slot 1 requirement.
Section 6. Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ Slot 1 Installation RequirementIC693CPU331 must be installed in Slot 1 of the baseplate—this is a dedicated CPU slot. Installation in any other slot will cause system failure or damage. Verify baseplate type (5-slot or 10-slot) compatibility before installation.
❗ Battery Backup DependencyThe battery-backed clock requires the CPU module battery. Unplugging the CPU from the baseplate disconnects battery from clock circuitry. Battery typically provides 2-3 years of clock backup—replace proactively to avoid time-based logic errors. Note: clock is separate from program memory backup.
❗ Communication Module RequirementsThe built-in serial port only supports SNP/SNP-X slave protocols. For SNP master, CCM, or RTU communication, you must install a CMM module. For RTU master communication, a PCM module is required. Do not assume built-in port supports all protocols—verify protocol requirements.
❗ Expansion LimitationsSupports up to 4 expansion/remote baseplates, but expansion requires proper cabling and configuration. Each expansion baseplate has I/O addressing limits. Verify total system I/O count (512 max) and address mapping before configuring expansion racks.
❗ PCM/CCM Compatibility CheckWhile IC693CPU331 supports PCM/CCM modules, verify memory and processing requirements for your specific application. Complex communication protocols may consume significant memory resources, leaving less capacity for user program—calculate total memory requirements.
❗ Override Function SafetyOverride function allows forcing I/O points, which can be hazardous in active processes. Never enable override mode without proper safety protocols. Document all forced points and disable override immediately after maintenance to prevent unintended operation.
❗ No Interrupt SupportIC693CPU331 does not support interrupt functionality—event-driven logic must be implemented via polling in main program scan. This may affect response time for time-critical applications requiring immediate response to specific events. Consider upgrading to higher-performance CPU (IC693CPU340+) if interrupts are required.
❗ Baseplate Power SupplyRequires 350mA @ 5VDC—ensure power supply has adequate capacity for CPU plus all I/O modules. Overloading power supply causes system instability. Calculate total current draw and select appropriate power supply (IC693PWR321 or higher capacity models).
❗ Memory Type ConsiderationsDefault memory is RAM volatile—requires battery backup for program retention. For applications requiring non-volatile storage without battery dependency, consider installing EPROM or EEPROM option for program storage. Note: EPROM/EEPROM programming requires special equipment.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
GE IC693CMM321
Section 7. Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility Matrix
- IC693CPU331 → IC693CPU323 (embedded) : Incompatible — different architecture, requires migration
- IC693CPU331 → IC693CPU340/341 (higher performance) : Upgrade path — same modular architecture, program transfer possible
- IC693CPU331 → IC693CPU313 (smaller modular) : Partially compatible — downgrades I/O and memory capacity
- IC693CPU331 → IC693CMM311 (CCM) : Compatible — supports CCM modules
- IC693CPU331 → IC693CMM321 (Ethernet) : Compatible — supports Ethernet modules
- IC693CPU331 → IC693PWR321 (power supply) : Compatible — requires 5VDC @ 350mA minimum
- IC693CPU331 → Expansion baseplates : Compatible — supports up to 4 expansion/remote baseplates
Benchmarks
- Logic scan speed: 0.4ms per 1K boolean contacts (typical)
- Program memory capacity: 16KB maximum
- Discrete I/O capacity: 512 input + 512 output points
- Analog I/O capacity: 128 input words + 64 output words
- Timers/Counters: 680 total
- Battery backup life (clock): 2-3 years typical
- Memory retention: Battery-backed RAM (program + clock)
- Serial port baud rates: 300–19.2Kbps (SNP slave)
- Power-up time: <5 seconds to program execution
- Mean time between failures (MTBF): >150,000 hours at 40°C
- Baseplate support: 5 total baseplates (1 CPU + 4 expansion/remote)
