Description
IC693CPU363 Product Overview
The IC693CPU363 is the flagship CPU module for GE Fanuc Series 90-30 programmable controllers. Built around a 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor, it delivers deterministic Boolean execution (0.22 ms per 1 K contacts) and can address up to 240 KB of battery-backed CMOS RAM for program, data, and retentive variables.
The IC693CPU363 is the flagship CPU module for GE Fanuc Series 90-30 programmable controllers. Built around a 25 MHz 80386EX microprocessor, it delivers deterministic Boolean execution (0.22 ms per 1 K contacts) and can address up to 240 KB of battery-backed CMOS RAM for program, data, and retentive variables.
In the control hierarchy the CPU sits at the “main processor” level: it executes the user ladder or SFC program, scans discrete and analog I/O across the Series 90-30 backplane, and communicates with programming tools or SCADA via three built-in serial ports (RS-485/RS-232). Expansion is plug-and-play—add memory daughter-cards or option modules in the same rack to increase RAM or add Ethernet without changing the program file.
Because the module is passive (no fans) and stores its program in battery-backed RAM, it is widely used in turbine, compressor, and process-skid applications where a simple, deterministic PLC is preferred over a full DCS.
IC693CPU363
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC693CPU363
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Manufacturer: GE / Emerson
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Product Type: Central Processing Unit (CPU) Module
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Microprocessor: 80C186/80386EX, 25 MHz
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Boolean Speed: 0.22 ms per 1 K contacts (typical)
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User Memory: 240 KB (245,760 bytes) battery-backed CMOS RAM
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Digital I/O: 2,048 inputs + 2,048 outputs (any mix)
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Analog I/O: 8 K words (%AI/%AQ) configurable
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Battery: Lithium, 10-year shelf life, 6-month retention without power
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Serial Ports: 3 (Port 1 RS-232, Port 2 RS-485, Port 3 via power-supply connector)
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Backplane Current: 890 mA @ +5 VDC
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Temperature: 0 … +60 °C operational; –40 … +85 °C storage
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Weight: ≈ 0.37 kg (0.8 lb)
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Form Factor: Single-slot Series 90-30 backplane
Core Features & Customer Value
Sub-millisecond scan – 0.22 ms/1K Boolean execution keeps turbine protection or high-speed packaging loops responsive without adding a coprocessor.
Sub-millisecond scan – 0.22 ms/1K Boolean execution keeps turbine protection or high-speed packaging loops responsive without adding a coprocessor.
240 KB battery-backed RAM – Store large ladder programs and retentive data; lithium battery maintains memory for 6 months without power, eliminating re-download after outages.
Three built-in serial ports – Native RS-232/RS-485 eliminates an external communication card; connect a laptop, operator panel, or SCADA master directly.
Single-slot footprint – No extra rack space; same slot accepts memory or coprocessor daughter-cards, so performance can be upgraded in place.
Passive, fan-less design – No moving parts; survives 5 g vibration and 50 g shock common in turbine skids or marine engine rooms.
IC693CPU363
Typical Applications
In combined-cycle plants the IC693CPU363 is installed as the main PLC in Series 90-30 racks that govern gas-turbine fuel valves, inlet-guide-vane actuators, and cooling-water pumps. The 0.22 ms scan keeps the speed-control loop responsive, while battery-backed RAM retains the last valve position during power dips.
In combined-cycle plants the IC693CPU363 is installed as the main PLC in Series 90-30 racks that govern gas-turbine fuel valves, inlet-guide-vane actuators, and cooling-water pumps. The 0.22 ms scan keeps the speed-control loop responsive, while battery-backed RAM retains the last valve position during power dips.
In pipeline compressor stations the same CPU runs anti-surge PID and communicates with remote I/O over Genius bus, using the native RS-485 port to publish compressor maps to the station SCADA.
Because the module is certified for marine environments, it is also used on off-shore platforms for well-head control and engine governors where a simple, deterministic PLC is preferred over a full DCS.
