Description
IC697CPU771 Product Overview
The IC697CPU771 is a single-slot, expandable CPU module for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 programmable controllers. Built around a 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor, it delivers deterministic Boolean execution (0.4 µs per instruction) and can address up to 512 KB of battery-backed CMOS RAM for program, data, and retentive variables.
The IC697CPU771 is a single-slot, expandable CPU module for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 programmable controllers. Built around a 12 MHz 80C186 microprocessor, it delivers deterministic Boolean execution (0.4 µs per instruction) and can address up to 512 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 VME C.1 backplane, and communicates with programming tools or SCADA via an on-board RS-485 port. Expansion is plug-and-play—add a memory daughter-card or coprocessor module in the same slot to boost RAM or add math/floating-point functions without changing the program file.
Because the module is passive (no fans or rotating media) 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.
GE IC697CPU771
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC697CPU771
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Manufacturer: GE / Emerson
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Product Type: Expandable CPU Module
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Microprocessor: 80C186, 12 MHz
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Boolean Speed: 0.4 µs per function
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Digital I/O: 2 K points (any mix)
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Analog I/O: 8 K points maximum
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Memory: Up to 512 KB battery-backed CMOS RAM (via plug-in daughter-card)
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Battery: Lithium, 10-year shelf life, 6-month retention without power
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Serial Port: 1× RS-485 (programmer/SCADA)
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Backplane: VME C.1 standard; single-slot
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Current Draw: 1.1 A @ +5 VDC (with expansion memory)
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Temperature: 0 … +60 °C operational; -40 … +85 °C storage
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Weight: 0.37 kg (0.8 lb)
GE IC697CPU771
Core Features & Customer Value
Deterministic 0.4 µs Boolean – Fast enough for turbine protection or high-speed packaging lines without adding a separate coprocessor.
Deterministic 0.4 µs Boolean – Fast enough for turbine protection or high-speed packaging lines without adding a separate coprocessor.
512 KB battery-backed RAM – Store large ladder programs, data tables, and retentive variables; battery retention eliminates re-download after power loss.
Single-slot VME form factor – No extra rack space; same slot holds memory or math coprocessor daughter-cards, so performance can be upgraded in place.
Native RS-485 port – Eliminates an external serial card; connect a laptop or SCADA directly for program download, monitor, or Modbus RTU master/slave.
Passive, fan-less design – No moving parts; survives 5 g vibration and 50 g shock common in turbine skids or marine engine rooms.
Typical Applications
In combined-cycle plants the IC697CPU771 is installed as the main PLC in Series 90-70 racks that govern gas-turbine fuel valves, inlet-guide-vane actuators, and cooling-water pumps. The 0.4 µs Boolean execution keeps the speed-control loop responsive, while battery-backed RAM retains the last known valve position during power dips.
In combined-cycle plants the IC697CPU771 is installed as the main PLC in Series 90-70 racks that govern gas-turbine fuel valves, inlet-guide-vane actuators, and cooling-water pumps. The 0.4 µs Boolean execution keeps the speed-control loop responsive, while battery-backed RAM retains the last known 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.
