The GE Fanuc IC697PWR720 is a high-capacity power supply module specifically designed for the Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) family. As the primary energy source for the system rack, it is engineered to convert standard AC input voltages into the stabilized DC power required by the CPU, I/O modules, and various specialized communication cards.
Product Introduction
The IC697PWR720 is a “high-output” power supply, capable of delivering a substantial current to the backplane to support large-scale industrial configurations. The Series 90-70 architecture is based on the VMEbus standard, which requires precise voltage regulation and high noise immunity. The PWR720 meets these demands by utilizing a sophisticated switching regulator design that ensures a constant +5V DC, +12V DC, and -12V DC output even under varying load conditions.
This module occupies a single slot on the far left of the IC697 chassis. Its robust construction reflects the industrial heritage of GE Fanuc, focusing on long-term reliability in environments characterized by thermal stress and electrical interference. It includes integrated protection circuits to safeguard the expensive processor and I/O modules against power surges, overvoltage, and short circuits.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
The technical specifications of the IC697PWR720 are summarized in the following table:
| Parameter | Specification |
| Model Number | IC697PWR720 |
| Nominal Input Voltage | 120V / 240V AC (Auto-ranging or Jumper selectable) |
| Input Voltage Range | 85 to 264V AC |
| Input Frequency | 47 to 63 Hz |
| Output Power (Total) | 100 Watts (Max) |
| +5V DC Output Current | 20 Amps |
| +12V DC Output Current | 2 Amps |
| -12V DC Output Current | 1 Amp |
| Ride-through Time | 20 milliseconds (minimum) |
| Power Factor Correction | Passive |
| Isolation | 1500V AC (Input to Output) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Relative Humidity | 5% to 95% (Non-condensing) |
Technical Description & Logic
The IC697PWR720 utilizes a high-frequency switching architecture. This design allows for a relatively compact module that can output high current (20A at 5V) without the excessive heat generated by linear power supplies.
- Status Indicators: The front panel features three primary LEDs. The OK LED indicates that the power supply is functioning within normal parameters. The RUN LED reflects the state of the PLC CPU, and the I/O LED indicates if the I/O system is enabled.
- Battery Backup: The module includes a slot for a lithium battery. This battery is critical for maintaining the CPU’s RAM and the internal Time-of-Day clock when the main power is disconnected.
- Protection Systems: The module employs “fold-back” current limiting. If a short circuit occurs on the backplane, the power supply will reduce its output to a safe level to prevent fire or hardware melting, and it will automatically recover once the fault is cleared.
- Cooling: It relies on natural convection cooling. The slotted metal case is designed to channel air upwards through the module, which is why proper vertical mounting of the Series 90-70 rack is mandatory.
Country of Origin
- Primary Origin: United States (USA). Manufactured in GE’s Charlottesville, Virginia facility during its primary production run.
Product Related News
In the landscape of 2025-2026 industrial automation, the IC697PWR720 is categorized as a Legacy Mission-Critical Component. While the Series 90-70 was succeeded by the PACSystems RX7i and eventually the RX3i, the 90-70 remains the “backbone” of many nuclear power plants, water treatment facilities, and large-scale manufacturing sites globally.
Recent news regarding this module focuses on Lifecycle Extension and Sustainability. GE (now Emerson Automation Solutions) and third-party specialists have expanded “Remanufacturing Programs” for the PWR720. These programs involve the proactive replacement of electrolytic capacitors—the components most likely to age—to ensure another 10 to 15 years of service. This is part of a broader industrial trend where companies are choosing to maintain robust legacy hardware rather than undergoing the extreme capital expenditure and risk associated with a complete software migration to newer platforms. Furthermore, with the rising focus on cybersecurity, air-gapped legacy systems powered by the IC697 series are being recognized for their inherent immunity to modern network-based ransomware, compared to cloud-connected modern PLCs.
Installation & Maintenance Guidelines
- Chassis Slotting: Always install the IC697PWR720 in the leftmost slot (Slot 1) of the IC697 rack. The power connections to the backplane are physically located to align only with this slot.
- Voltage Selection: Before applying power, verify the input voltage jumper (if present on your version) matches the local utility (110V vs 220V). Applying 220V to a module set for 110V will cause immediate internal fuse failure.
- Battery Replacement: It is recommended to replace the lithium battery every 2 to 3 years. Perform this replacement while the power is ON to avoid losing the CPU’s memory registers.
- Wiring Integrity: Ensure the terminal screws for the AC input are tightened to the specified torque. Loose connections in high-current power modules can lead to arcing and localized overheating.
Recommended Related GE Fanuc Models
If you are maintaining a Series 90-70 system, the following models are frequently used in conjunction with the IC697PWR720:
- IC697CPX935: A high-end 80486DX4-based CPU module often powered by this supply.
- IC697CHS750: The standard 9-slot rear-mount rack that houses the PWR720.
- IC697BEM731: A Genius Bus Controller module for distributed I/O.
- IC697ALG230: A high-density Analog Input module (8 channels).
- IC697MDL650: A 32-point 24V DC Discrete Input module.
- IC697VAL232: A specialized VME-based motion control module.
- IC690ACC001: The replacement lithium battery kit required for memory retention.
