GE IC698ETM001

Description

Product Overview

The GE IC698ETM001 is a versatile and powerful Ethernet interface module for the GE Fanuc (now part of Emerson) RX3i and RX7i series of programmable automation controllers (PACs). This module serves as the primary high-speed communication gateway between the PLC/PAC backplane and an industrial Ethernet network. Its primary function is to enable the RX3i/RX7i CPU to communicate via Ethernet/IP and SRTP (Services Request Transport Protocol) for peer-to-peer communication, data exchange with HMIs and SCADA systems, and programming from a workstation. For comprehensive technical specifications, configuration guides, and firmware details, please refer to the official product resource: GE IC698ETM001. The GE IC698ETM001 is a foundational component for building networked control systems, facilitating integration with other GE PLCs, third-party devices, and enterprise-level systems.

Product Parameters and Specifications

• Function: Dual-Port Ethernet Interface Module for RX3i/RX7i PACs.
• Communication Protocols: Primarily supports:
  • EtherNet/IP (Explicit Messaging & I/O): For integration with Rockwell and other EtherNet/IP compatible devices.
  • SRTP (GE Fanuc’s native protocol): For high-speed peer-to-peer communication between GE PLCs (e.g., Rx3i to Rx3i), HMI connectivity (e.g., QuickPanel), and programming via Proficy Machine Edition.
• Ports: Features two 10/100 Mbps RJ-45 Ethernet ports with auto-negotiation and auto-MDI/X. These ports often support daisy-chaining (linear topology) without an external switch.
• Backplane Interface: Connects to the high-speed PCI-based bus of the RX3i/RX7i rack, offering much faster data transfer than older serial-based modules.
• Configuration: Configured within GE’s Proficy Machine Edition logic development software. Settings include IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and protocol-specific parameters.
• Diagnostics: Provides extensive diagnostic capabilities through status LEDs (power, network activity, fault) and software-readable status bits for network health and connection status.
• Memory: Contains onboard memory for firmware and connection management.

Advantages and Key Features

The GE IC698ETM001 offers significant advantages for system connectivity. Its dual-port design with integrated switch functionality allows for easy daisy-chaining of multiple controllers or devices, reducing network infrastructure costs and cabinet space by eliminating the need for external Ethernet switches in linear networks. It provides high-speed backplane communication via the PCI bus, ensuring minimal latency for data exchange between the CPU and the network. The module supports multiple protocols simultaneously, allowing a single IC698ETM001 to handle programming traffic (SRTP) and peer-to-peer data exchange (SRTP or EtherNet/IP) concurrently. It enables seamless integration within the GE ecosystem and with third-party systems, making it a cornerstone for modern, open architecture control systems. Its robust design ensures reliable operation in industrial environments.

Application Cases in Industry

This Ethernet module is ubiquitous in industries utilizing the RX3i platform. In Automotive Manufacturing, multiple RX3i PACs with IC698ETM001 modules communicate over a daisy-chained Ethernet network to synchronize welding, sealing, and assembly processes. Within Water and Wastewater Treatment, it connects PACs controlling different plant areas (headworks, aeration, filtration) to a central SCADA system. For Material Handling and Packaging lines, it enables high-speed data exchange between distributed I/O, drives, and the main controller. The GE IC698ETM001 is also widely used in Oil & Gas pipeline pump stations and Food & Beverage processing lines for integrated control and data collection.

Comparison with Competing Products

• vs. Older GE Serial Modules (e.g., IC690CMM321): The IC698ETM001 provides dramatically higher speed, more connectivity options, and modern protocol support (EtherNet/IP), making it the standard for new installations.
• vs. Embedded CPU Ethernet Ports: Some newer RX3i CPUs have a built-in Ethernet port. The IC698ETM001 offers additional ports for network expansion, dedicated processing for network traffic, and often supports a broader range of protocol services than the basic CPU port.
• vs. Third-Party Communication Gateways: An external gateway to translate a proprietary GE bus to Ethernet would be more complex, slower, and less integrated than the native IC698ETM001 module.
• vs. Other PLC Ethernet Modules (e.g., Allen-Bradley 1756-ENBT, Siemens CP 343-1): These are protocol-specific to their respective ecosystems (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET). The IC698ETM001‘ key strength is its deep integration with the RX3i hardware and Proficy software, and its native support for GE’s high-performance SRTP protocol alongside open standards.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

• Selection Advice:
  1. Rack Compatibility: Confirm the GE IC698ETM001 is used in a compatible RX3i or RX7i rack. It will not work in older 90-30 or 90-70 series racks.
  2. Network Topology Planning: Decide if you will use a star topology (requiring an external switch) or a linear daisy-chain topology using the module’s dual ports. Plan IP addresses accordingly.
  3. Protocol Requirements: Determine if you need EtherNet/IP for communication with devices like PanelView HMIs or other vendors’ PLCs, or if SRTP for GE-to-GE communication is sufficient. The IC698ETM001 supports both.
  4. Firmware Version: Ensure the module’s firmware is compatible with your version of Proficy Machine Edition and the CPU firmware.
• Important Precautions:
  1. IP Address Configuration: Always assign a static IP address within the correct subnet for industrial networks. Avoid using DHCP for critical control devices.
  2. Network Segmentation: Isolate the control network containing the IC698ETM001 from the business IT network using firewalls or a demilitarized zone (DMZ) to enhance cybersecurity.
  3. Cable Specification: Use industrial-grade, shielded Cat5e or better Ethernet cables. Properly ground the cable shield at one end only (typically at the switch or first device in the chain) to prevent ground loops.
  4. Configuration Backup: Always back up the hardware configuration of the rack, including the IC698ETM001 settings, within the Proficy Machine Edition project. This simplifies recovery after a module replacement.

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