GE-IC698CPE030 PACSystems RX7i VME‑bus Central Processing Unit Module

Description

Core performance features

‑ Processor: 600 MHz Pentium‑M microprocessor. ‑ Memory: 64 MB battery‑backed SRAM for user logic & data; 64 MB non‑volatile flash memory for program, configuration and event log storage. ‑ I/O capacity: supports up to 32 K discrete I/O bits and 32 K analog I/O words. Max 512 program blocks, each block maximum size 128 KB. Boolean execution speed: 0.069 ms per 1000 contacts‑coils. ‑ Communication interfaces:  Dual independent 10/100 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet ports, auto‑negotiation supported. Protocols include SRTP, Modbus TCP, IEC 60870‑5‑104. Built‑in web server and FTP service, allows maximum 16 combined web / FTP client connections for remote monitoring and file access.  One RS232 serial debug port for local programming with Proficy Machine Edition software. SNP slave protocol supported. ‑ Programming languages: Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, C language for advanced algorithm development. ‑ Diagnosis function: comprehensive self‑diagnosis, stores time‑stamped system fault logs and SOE sequence‑of‑event records. On‑board battery monitors warn users before SRAM data‑retention battery runs low. ‑ Backplane power consumption: draws 3.4 A @ 5 VDC from VME backplane, no separate field‑wired power supply terminal on this CPU board. ‑ Environmental specifications: operating temperature 0 ~ 60 ℃; storage temperature ‑40 ~ +85 ℃; humidity 5‑95 % non‑condensing; IP20 protection grade, cabinet‑mount only. ‑ Compatibility note: it can work with Series 90‑70 I/O modules and standard VME boards. Firmware revision must match other RX7i rack modules; mismatched firmware will trigger communication instability or partial function loss.

Physical appearance

Standard 6U VME horizontal plug‑in circuit board, fits RX7i VME rack slot. ‑ Front panel: two RJ45 Ethernet sockets, one RS232 debug port; multi‑LED status indicators: CPU OK, RUN, STOP, Output Enable, Battery, Ethernet channel health; metal ejector latches for insertion and extraction. Model label printed IC698CPE030. ‑ Rear side: large‑size VME golden‑finger contacts for back‑plane power supply and internal bus data exchange. ‑ No independent metal enclosure; bare PCB with front metal faceplate. No field signal wiring terminals, all external connections are finished on front‑panel connectors. ‑ On‑board replaceable lithium battery for SRAM data retention; battery aging is a common failure point for long‑running old‑site hardware.

On‑site application scenarios

Installed in power‑plant, petrochemical and heavy‑industry automation cabinets, acting as core controller for RX7i PACSystems system. It collects data from DI/DO/AI/AO and communication modules, executes safety interlock, sequence control and regulatory control logic, exchanges real‑time data with HMI and dispatching host via Ethernet. If this CPU fails, the whole rack will stop executing control logic and trigger unit‑related interlock actions. After replacement, download complete project configuration file, verify firmware consistency, check bus communication status of each I/O slot, test Ethernet and serial communication channels, inspect battery voltage status before online operation.

Installation & operating notes

‑ Although VME hot‑swap is theoretically supported under redundant architecture, power‑off replacement is strongly recommended in actual site to avoid scratch and oxidation damage to VME golden‑finger contacts. ‑ Ethernet cables must adopt industrial‑grade shielded twisted‑pair, keep physical separation from high‑voltage power cables to restrain electromagnetic interference causing link flapping. ‑ Pay regular attention to onboard backup lithium‑battery condition. When battery voltage drops below threshold, configuration and historical event data will be lost after power failure. ‑ Keep cabinet well‑ventilated; high ambient temperature will accelerate aging of onboard memory chips and electrolytic components. ‑ Do not disassemble PCB for component‑level repairing. Replace whole CPU board for permanent hardware damage.

Common field phenomena & troubleshooting

1. All front‑panel indicators stay off: Check rack VME back‑plane 5 VDC power supply, re‑seat CPU module firmly in slot. Suspect onboard power circuit damage if back‑plane power is normal.
2. One Ethernet link flickering frequently: Inspect network cable shielding and connector condition, verify IP address and network parameter setting, check cabinet dust accumulation and temperature.
3. Cannot download project configuration: Verify Proficy Machine Edition communication path, check whether CPU is locked in fault halt state, confirm firmware compatibility between CPU and rack I/O modules.
4. Historical event / SOE records disappear after power‑cycle: Replace onboard backup lithium‑battery, re‑download configuration and verify data retention function.
5. System reports partial I/O modules offline: Clean dust and oxidation on VME golden‑finger contacts, check back‑plane bus health, confirm firmware version matching.
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