Description
Product Description
GE IC698CHS009A is a VME-based rack or chassis, serving as the foundational hardware platform for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC system, also marketed as the RX7i. This component, the IC698CHS009A, is not a programmable module but the critical physical backbone that houses and interconnects all other system components. Its primary function is to provide the mechanical structure, the high-speed VME backplane for data exchange, and the regulated power distribution to the CPU, I/O, and communication modules. The selection of the correct chassis, such as the GE IC698CHS009A, is the first and most fundamental decision in building a 90-70 system, as it determines the total number of modules that can be installed, the power supply requirements, and the system’s physical footprint. The reliability and integrity of the entire PLC system depend on a robust and properly configured chassis like the IC698CHS009A.
Product Parameters / Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: GE Fanuc (now part of Emerson)
- Series: Series 90-70 / RX7i PLC System
- Functional Designation: Main Rack / Chassis
- Form Factor: Standard 19-inch rack-mount enclosure.
- Backplane Type: VME (Versa Module Eurocard) bus.
- Number of Slots: Contains a specific number of slots for modules (e.g., 5, 9, or 17 slots total). The model “009A” typically indicates a chassis with slots, often a 9-slot configuration.
- Power Supply Integration: May include an integrated power supply or have slots for plug-in power supply modules (like the IC698PSAxxx). The exact configuration is defined by the chassis model suffix.
- Input Power: Accepts AC or DC input power, specified for the chassis model, which is then distributed to the modules via the backplane.
- Cooling: Includes fans or provisions for airflow to cool the installed electronic modules.
- Communication Ports: The chassis itself does not have communication ports; these are provided by modules installed in its slots.
Advantages and Key Features
- High-Speed VME Backplane: Provides a deterministic, high-bandwidth data pathway between the CPU, I/O processors, and communication cards, which is essential for large, fast, and complex control applications.
- Robust Mechanical Construction: Built as a heavy-duty industrial enclosure designed to withstand vibration and provide reliable operation in harsh environments.
- Modular and Scalable: The slot-based design allows for flexible system configuration. The GE IC698CHS009A can be populated with a mix of CPUs, discrete/analog I/O, special function modules, and network interfaces to meet exact application needs.
- Integrated Power Management: Designed to work seamlessly with compatible GE power supplies, providing clean, regulated power to all modules and often supporting N+1 redundant power configurations for high availability.
- Hot-Swap Capability (in configured systems): When used with a compatible redundant CPU and power system, modules in the chassis can often be replaced without powering down the entire control system.
- Proven Legacy Platform: The 90-70/RX7i platform, anchored by chassis like the IC698CHS009A, is known for its extreme ruggedness and reliability in demanding industrial sectors.
Application Cases in Industry
- Large Process Automation: Serves as the main controller rack in chemical plants, oil refineries, and pharmaceutical facilities where high I/O counts and complex regulatory control are required.
- Power Generation (Balance of Plant): Used for controlling critical auxiliary systems such as coal handling, ash removal, water treatment, and flue gas desulfurization.
- Metals Production & Rolling Mills: Provides the high-speed processing and deterministic scan times needed for controlling rolling mills, furnace charging, and continuous casting lines.
- Material Handling Mega-Systems: Forms the core of control systems for large airport baggage handling networks, automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS), and parcel distribution centers.
Comparison with Competing Products
| Feature | GE IC698CHS009A (Series 90-70 VME Rack) | Modern Modular PLC Chassis (e.g., Allen-Bradley 1756-Axx) |
|---|---|---|
| Backplane Technology | VME Bus: A mature, high-performance parallel bus standard from the 1980s/90s. Offers deterministic performance but is a legacy architecture. | Proprietary High-Speed Parallel Bus: Modern implementations (like ControlLogix backplane) offer significantly higher data throughput and more advanced features. |
| Module Interchangeability | VME Standard: In theory, can accept any standard VME bus card, but for PLC functionality, it requires specific GE Series 90-70 compatible modules. | Vendor-Locked: Only accepts modules from the same manufacturer’s specific product family. |
| System Performance | High-Performance for its Era: Excellent for large-scale control but is based on older bus and processor technology. | State-of-the-Art: Leverages modern processor and bus speeds for faster execution and larger memory capacities. |
| Future-Proofing | Legacy/Discontinued: The platform is no longer developed. Expansion is limited to the used/surplus market. | Actively Developed: New modules, firmware updates, and long-term support are available. |
Selection Suggestions and Precautions
- Determine Required Number of Slots: Carefully count all modules needed (CPU, power supply, I/O, comms, special function) and select a chassis like the GE IC698CHS009A with sufficient slots. Always leave room for future expansion.
- Verify Power Supply Configuration: Determine if the IC698CHS009A has an integrated power supply or requires separate plug-in power supply module(s). Ensure the total power capacity meets the sum of all module requirements.
- Check Compatibility with Existing Modules: If this is a replacement or expansion, ensure all existing Series 90-70 modules are compatible with this specific chassis model. Consult the hardware compatibility guide.
- Consider Redundancy Needs: For critical applications, select a chassis model and configuration that supports redundant power supplies and, if needed, a redundant CPU pair.
- Environmental Factors: Ensure the chassis’ environmental specifications (temperature, humidity) are suitable for its intended location (e.g., inside a conditioned control room vs. a field cabinet).
- Legacy Sourcing Strategy: The Series 90-70 is a discontinued platform. When sourcing a GE IC698CHS009A, work with specialized surplus dealers who can verify the condition of the backplane, connectors, and cooling fans. Consider the long-term maintenance plan for the entire system.

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