Description
Section 3. Product Introduction
The GE IC693CPU360 is a high-performance single-slot modular CPU module for Series 90-30 PLC systems, representing a significant upgrade from the IC693CPU350 series. This advanced CPU module features 240KB of configurable user memory (expandable up to 240KB for program storage) and supports up to 4K I/O points across 8 baseplates (1 CPU + 7 expansion/remote). Powered by an 80386EX processor running at 25MHz with a fast scan rate of 0.22ms per 1K boolean logic, the IC693CPU360 delivers exceptional processing power for complex industrial automation applications.
Unlike the IC693CPU350 with its fixed 32KB memory, the IC693CPU360 offers configurable memory allocation—register memory (%R) ranges from 128 to 32,640 words in 128-word increments with firmware 9.0+, while analog inputs (%AI) and outputs (%AQ) are configurable up to 16,384 words combined. This flexible memory architecture allows optimization for specific application requirements. The module supports advanced features including floating-point math (firmware 9.0+), periodic subroutine interrupts, override function, battery-backed clock, and full PCM/CCM compatibility. Communication is via RS-485 port on the power supply module (SNP/SNP-X slave), with optional Ethernet (IC693CMM321), Profibus, FIP, GBC, GCM, and GCM+ 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 | 240KB configurable maximum (firmware 9.0+) / 80KB fixed (pre-firmware 9.0) |
| Typical Scan Rate | 0.22ms per 1K boolean contacts |
| Discrete Input Points – %I | 2,048 (configurable to 4,096 total with expansion) |
| Discrete Output Points – %Q | 2,048 (configurable to 4,096 total with expansion) |
| 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 | 128 to 32,640 words (configurable, 128-word increments) / 9,999 words (pre-firmware 9.0) |
| Analog Inputs – %AI | Configurable with %AQ, up to 16,384 words combined |
| Analog Outputs – %AQ | Configurable with %AI, up to 16,384 words combined |
| System Registers – %SR | 28 words (reference only) |
| Timers/Counters | >2,000 total |
| Shift Registers | Supported |
| Serial Ports | 1 (RS-485 via power supply, SNP/SNP-X slave) |
| Communication Modules | Supports Ethernet, FIP, Profibus, GBC, GCM, GCM+ |
| Override Function | Yes |
| Battery-Backed Clock | Yes |
| Interrupts | Periodic subroutine feature supported |
| Memory Types | RAM and Flash |
| PCM/CCM Compatibility | Yes |
| Floating Point Math | Yes (firmware 9.0 and later) |
| Total Baseplates per System | 8 (1 CPU + 7 expansion/remote) |
| Slot Requirement | Slot 1 of baseplate |
| 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) |
| Product Lifecycle Status | Discontinued/Obsolete |
IC693CPU360
Section 5. Quality Control Process
1. Incoming VerificationValidate part number IC693CPU360 and revision level. Inspect module for physical damage, bent pins, or signs of overheating. Verify battery presence for clock backup functionality. Check firmware version—confirm memory configuration capability (240KB with firmware 9.0+). Note that the CPU does not have an embedded communication port.
2. Power-On TestInstall CPU in Slot 1 of compatible baseplate with 5VDC power supply (minimum 670mA capacity). Power on and verify OK LED illuminates within 5 seconds. Confirm RUN LED activates correctly. Monitor for error LEDs or fault conditions during 30-minute burn-in period.
3. Memory Configuration TestVerify maximum configurable memory (240KB with firmware 9.0+). Test register memory (%R) configuration from 128 to 32,640 words in 128-word increments. Configure analog I/O memory (%AI, %AQ) allocation and verify combined capacity up to 16,384 words. Test Flash memory programming/erasure cycle. Validate floating-point math operations with precision checks (firmware 9.0+ required).
4. I/O and Expansion TestConfigure local and remote I/O modules up to 4K points total across 8 baseplates. Verify analog input/output accuracy with signal calibrator. Test communication with expansion baseplates (maximum 7 remote/expansion). Verify IC693ALG220/221G analog module compatibility (requires appropriate firmware).
5. Communication TestVerify serial port communication at 9600 baud via RS-485 through power supply connector (SNP/SNP-X slave). If Ethernet module (IC693CMM321) is installed, confirm firmware version compatibility. Test Ethernet TCP/IP connectivity with programming workstation. Verify Profibus module functionality if installed.
6. Advanced Features TestVerify override function by forcing I/O points. Test battery-backed clock retention after 24-hour power-off. Validate periodic subroutine interrupt functionality. Confirm PCM/CCM module compatibility with data transfer tests. Verify shift register operations with large data patterns.
7. Final QC & PackagingDocument hardware revision, firmware version, memory configuration settings, and battery status. Apply QC Passed sticker with revision notation. Include firmware upgrade requirements (if applicable) and memory configuration documentation. Package with anti-static materials.
Section 6. Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ Memory Configuration DependencyIC693CPU360 supports configurable memory starting with firmware 9.0. Earlier firmware versions have fixed 80KB user program memory and 9,999-word register memory. Verify firmware version before replacement if your application requires 240KB memory or expanded register memory (up to 32,640 words).
❗ No Embedded Communication PortIC693CPU360 does NOT have an embedded communication port on the CPU module. All serial communication uses the RS-485 port located on the power supply module. Do not attempt to connect programming devices directly to the CPU—access communication through power supply swing door.
❗ Analog Module CompatibilityIC693ALG220/221F (version F and earlier) may exhibit erratic %AI values when used with CPU360 modules. Use IC693ALG220/221G (version G or later) or ensure CPU firmware is upgraded to resolve timing issues with optocouplers.
❗ Memory Allocation ConstraintsWhile total configurable memory is 240KB, actual available user-programmable memory depends on assigned values for %R, %AI, and %AQ at maximum 240KB. Calculate memory requirements carefully—assigning more memory to %R reduces available capacity for %AI and %AQ.
❗ Power Supply CapacityRequires 670mA @ 5VDC—same as IC693CPU350. Ensure power supply has adequate capacity for CPU360 plus all I/O modules when replacing lower-power CPUs. Insufficient power causes system instability or failure.
❗ Firmware Version ImpactFirmware 9.0+ enables configurable memory (240KB) and floating-point math. Pre-firmware 9.0 versions have fixed 80KB memory and 9,999-word register memory. Upgrade firmware if application requires advanced features—upgrade requires specific hardware and software.
❗ Expansion Baseplate AddressingSupports up to 7 expansion/remote baseplates, but total I/O cannot exceed 4K points. Verify address mapping when replacing CPUs with different I/O capacities (IC693CPU350 supports 2K I/O). Use configuration software to validate system topology.
❗ Ethernet Module FirmwareIf using IC693CMM321 Ethernet Interface Module, ensure module firmware is compatible with CPU360 firmware version. Some combinations may require updates to both CPU and Ethernet module for stable operation.
❗ No Hot Swap SupportIC693CPU360 does not support hot swapping. Module removal during operation causes system shutdown. Plan maintenance during scheduled downtime and ensure proper power-off procedure before removing CPU.
❗ Battery Replacement RequirementsBattery-backed clock uses internal battery with 2-3 year lifespan. Replace battery during scheduled maintenance to prevent time-based logic errors. Battery replacement requires system downtime for CPU module removal.
❗ Register Memory ConfigurationWith firmware 9.0+, register memory (%R) ranges from 128 to 32,640 words in 128-word increments. Programs using fixed addressing from older CPUs may require memory reconfiguration when migrating to CPU360.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
IC693CPU360
Section 7. Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility Matrix
- IC693CPU360 → IC693CPU350 : Upgrade path — expanded memory (240KB vs 32KB), increased I/O (4K vs 2K), configurable memory
- IC693CPU360 → IC693CPU363 : Compatible baseplate — different performance characteristics
- IC693CPU360 → IC695CPU310 (RX3i) : Migration target — modern replacement with enhanced features
- IC693CPU360 → IC693CMM321 (Ethernet) : Compatible — verify firmware compatibility between CPU and Ethernet module
- IC693CPU360 → IC693PCM300 (RTU master) : Compatible — adds RTU master functionality
- IC693CPU360 → IC693ALG220/221G : Compatible — requires firmware compatibility for stable operation
- IC693CPU360 → IC693ALG220/221F (version F) : Not recommended — erratic behavior possible
- IC693CPU360 → Expansion baseplates : Compatible — supports up to 7 expansion/remote baseplates
- IC693CPU360 → IC693PWR321 : Compatible — ensure 670mA+ capacity
Benchmarks
- Logic scan speed: 0.22ms per 1K boolean contacts (typical)
- User program memory: 240KB configurable maximum (firmware 9.0+) / 80KB fixed (pre-firmware 9.0)
- Discrete I/O capacity: 4,096 input + 4,096 output points total (configurable)
- Analog I/O capacity: Configurable %AI and %AQ up to 16,384 words combined
- Register memory: 128 to 32,640 words configurable (firmware 9.0+) / 9,999 words fixed (pre-firmware 9.0)
- Timers/Counters: >2,000 total
- Battery backup life (clock): 2-3 years typical
- Memory retention: Flash (non-volatile), RAM (battery-backed)
- Serial port baud rates: 300–19.2Kbps (RS-485 via power supply)
- Ethernet port: N/A (requires IC693CMM321 module)
- 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 and later)
- Configurable memory: Yes — 240KB maximum (firmware 9.0+)
