Description
Section 3. Product Introduction
The GE IC693CPU350 is a high-performance single-slot modular CPU module for Series 90-30 PLC systems, representing a significant upgrade from entry-level CPU models. This module features an 80386EX processor running at 25MHz with a fast scan rate of 0.22ms per 1K boolean logic—over twice the speed of IC693CPU331. With 32KB of user program memory stored in Flash memory (non-volatile), it eliminates the need for battery backup for program retention, providing enhanced reliability for critical applications.
This modular CPU supports up to 8 total baseplates per system (1 CPU baseplate + 7 expansion/remote), enabling massive system scalability to 2048 discrete I/O points, 2048 words of analog input, and 512 words of analog output. The IC693CPU350 includes advanced features such as floating-point math operations (firmware 9.0+), periodic subroutine interrupts, override function, battery-backed clock, and full PCM/CCM compatibility. The integrated serial port supports SNP/SNP-X slave protocols, with optional Ethernet, FIP, Profibus, GBC, GCM, and GCM+ communication modules available—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 80386EX |
| Clock Speed | 25 MHz |
| User Program Memory | 32KB (Flash, non-volatile) |
| Typical Scan Rate | 0.22ms per 1K boolean contacts |
| Discrete Input Points – %I | 2,048 |
| Discrete Output Points – %Q | 2,048 |
| Discrete Global Memory – %G | 1,280 bits |
| Internal Coils – %M | 4,096 bits |
| Temporary Coils – %T | 256 bits |
| System Status References – %S | 128 bits (%S, %SA, %SB, %SC – 32 bits each) |
| Register Memory – %R | 9,999 words |
| Analog Inputs – %AI | 2,048 words |
| Analog Outputs – %AQ | 512 words |
| System Registers (%SR) | 28 words (reference only) |
| Timers/Counters | >2,000 total |
| Shift Registers | Supported |
| Serial Ports | 1 (SNP/SNP-X slave only via power supply) |
| Communication Modules | Supports Ethernet, FIP, Profibus, GBC, GCM, GCM+ |
| Override Function | Yes |
| Battery-Backed Clock | Yes |
| Interrupts | Periodic subroutine feature supported |
| Floating Point Math | Yes (firmware 9.0 and later) |
| Memory Types | RAM and Flash |
| PCM/CCM Compatibility | Yes |
| Total Baseplates per System | 8 (1 CPU baseplate + 7 expansion/remote) |
| Slot Requirement | Must be installed in Slot 1 |
| Operating Temperature | 0–60°C (32–140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40 to 85°C (-40 to 185°F) |
| Power Requirements | 670mA @ 5VDC |
| Weight | 1.00 lbs (0.45 kg) |
GE IC693CPU350
Section 5. Quality Control Process
1. Incoming VerificationVerify module revision (IC693CPU350-xx) and part number. Inspect physical condition for damage, bent pins, or signs of overheating. Confirm battery is present and functional (for clock backup). Check firmware version—verify firmware 9.0+ if floating-point math is required. Reject units with physical damage or incorrect revision.
2. Power-On TestInstall CPU in Slot 1 of compatible baseplate with adequate power supply (minimum 670mA capacity). 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 Flash TestLoad 32KB test program to verify full memory capacity. Test Flash memory retention by performing power cycle without battery backup—verify program remains intact. Test RAM memory accessibility and checksum validation. Verify floating-point operations execute correctly if firmware 9.0+.
4. I/O and Expansion TestTest communication with local I/O modules in baseplate. Verify proper addressing for 2,048 discrete I/O points. Test analog I/O with signal generator and multimeter. Configure and test expansion baseplate(s)—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 SNP-X slave mode with monitoring device. Install optional Ethernet module (IC693CMM321) and verify TCP/IP connectivity. 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 over power cycles. Verify periodic subroutine interrupt functionality with test logic. Test PCM/CCM compatibility if applicable. Confirm shift register functionality.
7. Final QC & PackagingDocument all test results including firmware revision, memory test results, battery status, and floating-point math verification. Apply QC Passed sticker with revision notation. Package with anti-static bag and cushioning. Include installation instructions noting Slot 1 requirement and 670mA power requirement.
Section 6. Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ Slot 1 Installation RequirementIC693CPU350 must be installed in Slot 1 of baseplate—this is a dedicated CPU slot. Installation in any other slot will cause system failure or damage. Verify baseplate type compatibility before installation.
❗ Power Supply CapacityRequires 670mA @ 5VDC—nearly double the current draw of IC693CPU331 (350mA). Ensure power supply has adequate capacity for CPU plus all I/O modules. Overloading power supply causes system instability or failure.
❗ No Hot Swap SupportIC693CPU350 does not support hot swap—removing or inserting the module while power is applied will damage the CPU or backplane. Always power down the system before CPU removal or installation.
❗ Communication Port LocationThe IC693CPU350 does not have a built-in communication port on the CPU module itself. The serial port is accessed through the power supply connector (RS-485 via power supply). Do not confuse this with CPU modules having built-in serial ports.
❗ Floating Point Math Firmware RequirementFloating-point math operations are only supported in firmware releases 9.0 and later. Earlier firmware versions do not support this feature. Verify firmware version before replacement if your application requires floating-point calculations.
❗ Expansion Rack LimitationsSupports up to 7 expansion/remote baseplates, but expansion requires proper cabling and configuration. Each expansion baseplate has I/O addressing limits. Verify total system I/O count (2,048 max) and address mapping before configuring expansion racks.
❗ Flash Memory vs Battery BackupIC693CPU350 uses Flash memory for program storage (non-volatile), eliminating the need for battery backup for program retention. However, the battery-backed clock still requires a functional battery for time-based logic—replace clock battery proactively.
❗ Periodic Subroutine InterruptsIC693CPU350 supports periodic subroutine interrupts (not event interrupts like higher-end CPUs). Configure periodic intervals carefully—excessive interrupt frequency affects scan time and system performance.
❗ PCM/CCM Compatibility CheckWhile IC693CPU350 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.
❗ 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.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
GE IC693CPU350
Section 7. Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility Matrix
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CPU331 (modular) : Upgrade path — same architecture, program transfer possible
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CPU340/341 (higher performance) : Upgrade path — compatible baseplate
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CPU364 (max performance) : Upgrade path — same modular architecture
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CPU323 (embedded) : Incompatible — different architecture, requires migration
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CMM311 (CCM) : Compatible — supports CCM modules
- IC693CPU350 → IC693CMM321 (Ethernet) : Compatible — supports Ethernet modules
- IC693CPU350 → IC693PWR321 (power supply) : Compatible — requires 5VDC @ 670mA minimum
- IC693CPU350 → Expansion baseplates : Compatible — supports up to 7 expansion/remote baseplates
Benchmarks
- Logic scan speed: 0.22ms per 1K boolean contacts (typical)
- Program memory capacity: 32KB Flash (non-volatile)
- Discrete I/O capacity: 2,048 input + 2,048 output points
- Analog I/O capacity: 2,048 input words + 512 output words
- Register memory: 9,999 words
- Timers/Counters: >2,000 total
- Battery backup life (clock): 2-3 years typical
- Memory retention: Flash memory (no battery required for program)
- Serial port baud rates: 300–19.2Kbps (SNP slave via power supply)
- Power-up time: <5 seconds to program execution
- Mean time between failures (MTBF): >200,000 hours at 40°C
- Baseplate support: 8 total baseplates (1 CPU + 7 expansion/remote)
- Floating-point math: Supported (firmware 9.0+)
