Description
Section 3. Product Introduction
The GE IC693CPU364 is a single-slot CPU module for Series 90-30 PLC systems featuring an embedded Ethernet interface—eliminating the need for separate Ethernet modules like IC693CMM321. Powered by an 80386EX processor running at 25MHz with a scan rate of 0.22ms per 1K boolean logic, this module provides 240KB of configurable user memory, support for up to 4K I/O points across 8 baseplates (1 CPU + 7 expansion/remote), and register memory ranging from 128 to 32,640 words with Control v2.2 software. The embedded Ethernet interface supports Ethernet Global Data (EGD) protocol with firmware Release 9.1+ adding configurable Name Resolution features—enabling efficient PLC-to-PLC communication without backplane dependency.
The Ethernet interface offers two connection options: 10BaseT port with built-in transceiver for direct network connection, and AAUI port for external transceiver (IEEE 802.3 compliant) when longer cable runs or specialized networking equipment are required. Communication is faster than separate CPU + Ethernet module combinations since the embedded interface bypasses the PLC backplane. The module includes one RS-232 serial port (Port 1) for terminal emulation and programming, plus RS-485 port via power supply connector supporting SNP/SNPX slave protocols. For SNP/SNPX master, RTU master, or CCM functionality, a CMM module is required. Key features include RAM and Flash memory storage, battery-backed clock, override functionality, periodic subroutine interrupts, floating-point math support (firmware 9.0+), and a replaceable Ethernet fuse (1A @ 125V, part 44A725214-001). The 1.51A @ 5VDC power requirement is the highest in the 90-30 CPU family, necessitating high-capacity power supplies—IC693PWR330 (3.0A) recommended. Critical installation requirement: frame ground connection at CPU slot using provided ground wire—verify with OEM datasheet.
Section 4. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Module Type | Single-slot CPU module with embedded Ethernet Interface |
| 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 |
| 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 | 128 to 32,640 words configurable (Windows programmer Control v2.2+) / 128 to 16,384 words (DOS Logicmaster) |
| Analog Inputs – %AI | 128 to 32,640 words configurable (Windows programmer) / 128 to 16,384 words (DOS Logicmaster) |
| Analog Outputs – %AQ | 128 to 32,640 words configurable (Windows programmer) / 128 to 16,384 words (DOS Logicmaster) |
| System Registers – %SR | 28 words (reference only) |
| Timers/Counters | >2,000 total |
| Shift Registers | Supported |
| Ethernet Interface | Embedded — 10BaseT (built-in transceiver) + AAUI (external transceiver) |
| Ethernet Protocol | Ethernet Global Data (EGD) |
| Serial Port 1 | RS-232 (15-pin D-sub on CPU) — terminal emulator, programming |
| Serial Port 2 | RS-485 (via power supply) — SNP/SNPX slave |
| Communication Modules | Supports additional Ethernet modules, Profibus, FIP, Genius (GBC, GCM, GCM+) |
| Override Function | Yes |
| Battery-Backed Clock | Yes |
| Interrupts | Periodic subroutine feature supported |
| Memory Types | RAM and Flash |
| PCM/CCM Compatibility | Yes (CMM module required for SNP/SNPX master, RTU master, CCM) |
| Floating Point Math | Yes (firmware 9.0 and later) |
| EGD Support | Yes (firmware 9.1+ with configurable Name Resolution) |
| 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 | 1.51A @ 5VDC |
| Ethernet Fuse | 1A @ 125V slow-acting (part 44A725214-001) |
| Weight | 1.69 lbs (0.77 kg) |
| Grounding Requirement | Frame ground connection mandatory at CPU slot |
| Indicators | 4 LEDs (EOK, LAN, STAT for Ethernet; PS for power) + Ethernet Restart button |
| Product Lifecycle Status | Discontinued/Obsolete |
GE IC693CPU364
Section 5. Quality Control Process
1. Incoming VerificationValidate part number IC693CPU363 through label inspection. Verify embedded Ethernet interface (10BaseT and AAUI ports) and RS-232 Port 1 are present. Check Ethernet fuse (1A @ 125V, part 44A725214-001) for integrity. Verify frame ground connection tab and ground wire presence. Check for physical damage, bent pins, corrosion, or signs of overheating. Confirm Flash memory integrity and check battery voltage for clock backup functionality. Confirm firmware version—note if upgrade to 9.1+ is required for EGD features.
2. Power-On TestInstall CPU in Slot 1 of compatible baseplate with 5VDC power supply (minimum 1.51A capacity—IC693PWR330 recommended). CRITICAL: Connect frame ground wire to ground terminal at CPU slot before powering on. Power on and verify OK LED illuminates within 5 seconds. Confirm RUN LED activates correctly. Monitor Ethernet LEDs (EOK, LAN, STAT) for proper network initialization. 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 with Windows programmer (Control v2.2+). Verify DOS Logicmaster limitation to 16,384 words. Configure analog I/O memory (%AI, %AQ) allocation and verify capacity up to 32,640 words with Windows programmer. Test Flash memory programming/erasure cycle. Validate floating-point math operations with precision checks.
4. Ethernet Interface TestTest 10BaseT port connectivity with standard CAT5 cable to network switch. Verify EOK, LAN, and STAT LEDs indicate proper link status. Test AAUI port with external transceiver (if applicable). Load EGD configuration and test PLC-to-PLC data exchange. Verify Name Resolution functionality with firmware 9.1+. Test Ethernet Restart button functionality (LED test, Restart, Software Load state, Maintenance state). Verify communication bypasses backplane for improved speed.
5. Serial Port Communication TestTest Port 1 (RS-232) communication at 9600/19200 baud for terminal emulator and programming. Test power supply RS-485 port for SNP/SNPX slave functionality. If CMM module is installed, verify SNP/SNPX master and RTU master protocols.
6. 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.
7. Final QC & PackagingDocument firmware version, EGD configuration, memory configuration settings, and battery status. Test Ethernet interface and all serial ports for functionality. Verify frame ground connection is documented. Apply QC Passed sticker with Ethernet verification notation. Include firmware upgrade requirements (if applicable) and EGD configuration documentation. Package with anti-static materials.
Section 6. Replacement Pitfall Guide
❗ Highest Power RequirementIC693CPU364 requires 1.51A @ 5VDC—the highest power draw in the 90-30 CPU family. Replacing IC693CPU350 (480mA), IC693CPU360 (670mA), or IC693CPU363 (890mA) with IC693CPU364 typically requires power supply upgrade. Verify existing power supply capacity:
- IC693PWR321: 1.5A (marginal—not recommended)
- IC693PWR330: 3.0A (recommended)Insufficient power causes boot failures, Ethernet interface malfunctions, or system instability.
❗ Frame Ground Connection MandatoryIC693CPU364 must be connected to frame ground at the slot where it’s installed using the provided ground wire. Failure to ground properly causes erratic Ethernet behavior, communication failures, and potential ESD damage. This requirement is unique to CPU364 due to embedded Ethernet circuitry—verify ground wire is connected before applying power.
❗ Ethernet Fuse ReplacementThe Ethernet interface is protected by a replaceable fuse (1A @ 125V slow-acting, part 44A725214-001). Fuse dimensions: 2.69 x 2.69 x 6.1 mm. Do not substitute with incorrect fuse ratings. If Ethernet fails to initialize, check fuse first before replacing module. Fuse is accessible from module front panel.
❗ 10BaseT vs AAUI Port SelectionThe module offers two Ethernet connection options:
- 10BaseT: Built-in transceiver, direct network connection (≤100 meters to hub/switch)
- AAUI: External transceiver required, bypasses internal transceiverDo not connect both ports simultaneously. Choose based on network infrastructure. AAUI requires IEEE 802.3 compliant transceiver—verify compatibility before installation.
❗ Ethernet Restart Button ModesThe Ethernet Restart button has four modes depending on press duration:
- Short press: LED test
- 1-2 second press: Normal restart
- 3-4 second press: Restart and enter Software Load state
- 5+ second press: Restart and enter Maintenance stateUnderstand each mode before use—accidental long-press during operation can force system into maintenance state.
❗ Limited Serial Master CapabilitiesPort 1 (RS-232) and power supply RS-485 port support SNP/SNPX slave only. For SNP/SNPX master, RTU master, or CCM protocols, a CMM module (IC693CMM321 or compatible) is required. The embedded Ethernet interface does not provide serial master functionality.
❗ EGD Firmware DependencyEthernet Global Data (EGD) and configurable Name Resolution require firmware 9.1 or later. Earlier firmware versions (9.0) support basic Ethernet but lack advanced EGD features. Verify firmware version before configuring EGD data exchanges—upgrade firmware if Name Resolution is required.
❗ Backplate Communication BypassThe embedded Ethernet interface communicates directly without using the PLC backplane. This improves speed but means Ethernet traffic is isolated from backplane diagnostic tools. Troubleshoot Ethernet issues using EOK/LAN/STAT LEDs, not backplane diagnostics.
❗ No Hot Swap SupportLike all Series 90-30 CPUs, IC693CPU364 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.
❗ Analog Module CompatibilityIC693ALG220/221F (version F and earlier) may exhibit erratic %AI values when used with IC693CPU364. Use IC693ALG220/221G (version G or later) or upgrade CPU firmware to resolve timing issues with optocouplers.
❗ Grounding Tab LocationThe frame ground connection tab is located on the CPU module front panel. Use the provided ground wire to connect to the ground terminal at the CPU slot in the baseplate. Do not rely on backplane ground alone—CPU364 requires direct frame ground for Ethernet interface stability.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
GE IC693CPU364
Section 7. Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
Compatibility Matrix
- IC693CPU364 → IC693CPU363 : Downgrade path — lose embedded Ethernet, lower power (890mA)
- IC693CPU364 → IC693CPU360-EL : Downgrade path — lose embedded Ethernet, lower power (670mA)
- IC693CPU364 → IC693CPU350 : Downgrade path — lose Ethernet, half memory (32KB), lower power (480mA)
- IC693CPU364 → IC695CPU310 (RX3i) : Migration target — modern replacement with enhanced Ethernet features
- IC693CPU364 → IC693CMM321 (Ethernet) : Not needed — embedded Ethernet replaces this module
- IC693CPU364 → IC693PCM300 (RTU master) : Compatible — adds RTU master functionality (CMM module required)
- IC693CPU364 → IC693ALG220/221G : Compatible — requires firmware compatibility for stable operation
- IC693CPU364 → IC693ALG220/221F (version F) : Not recommended — erratic behavior possible
- IC693CPU364 → Expansion baseplates : Compatible — up to 7 expansion/remote baseplates
- IC693CPU364 → IC693PWR321 : Not recommended — insufficient capacity (1.5A)
- IC693CPU364 → IC693PWR330 : Recommended — 3.0A capacity provides adequate headroom
- IC693CPU364 → Genius modules (GBC, GCM, GCM+) : Compatible — supports multidrop
- IC693CPU364 → Profibus/FIP modules : Compatible — LAN option modules required
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 (2,048 each)
- Analog I/O capacity: Configurable %AI and %AQ up to 32,640 words combined (Windows programmer) / 16,384 words (DOS Logicmaster)
- Register memory: 128 to 32,640 words configurable (Windows programmer) / 16,384 words (DOS Logicmaster)
- Timers/Counters: >2,000 total
- Battery backup life (clock): 2-3 years typical
- Memory retention: Flash (non-volatile), RAM (battery-backed)
- Ethernet port types: 10BaseT (built-in transceiver), AAUI (external transceiver)
- Ethernet protocol: Ethernet Global Data (EGD) — firmware 9.1+
- Ethernet speed: 10 Mbps (10BaseT standard)
- Ethernet cable length: ≤100 meters to hub/switch (10BaseT)
- Serial port baud rates: 300–19.2Kbps (RS-232 and RS-485)
- Serial protocols: SNP/SNPX slave (Port 1 and power supply), master/CCM/RTU (requires CMM module)
- Power-up time: <8 seconds to program execution (Ethernet initialization adds ~2 seconds)
- 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+)
- Power consumption: 1.51A @ 5VDC (7.55W) — highest in 90-30 CPU family
