Description
GE Fanuc IC687BEM742 is a dual-channel FIP (Factory Instrumentation Protocol) Bus Controller module engineered specifically for the GE Series 90-70 programmable logic controller (PLC) system. Designed to manage remote I/O communications and expand system architecture, this module acts as a high-speed bridge between the local CPU rack and remote I/O nests across complex industrial automation environments.
Product Specifications (Datasheet)
- Brand: GE Fanuc (General Electric)
- Model: IC687BEM742
- Series: Series 90-70 PLC / FIP Fieldbus Series
- Product Name: FIP Bus Controller (FBC) Module
- Place of Origin: United States
- Lifecycle Status: Obsolete / Specialized Industrial Surplus
- Slot Requirement: Occupies a single half-slot in an IC697 VME Integrator rack (CPU/Rack slot)
- Weight: Approx. 0.79 lbs (0.36 kg)
- Country of Origin: USA
- Power Consumption: Powered via the PLC rack backplane at 5 VDC (approx. 1.4A)
- Communication Ports: Two dual-channel RS-485 FIP bus connectors and a front-panel 15-pin serial port for firmware upgrades
Operating Guidelines and Usage Methods
Proper integration and handling of the bus controller require strict adherence to standard electronic safety and PLC networking practices.
- ESD Precautions: Always utilize a certified grounded electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling the module to protect sensitive internal microprocessors and transceiver chips from static damage.
- Rack Installation: Insert the module firmly into any available I/O or expansion slot within an IC697 VME Integrator backplane rack, ensuring the board guides and edge connectors seat completely before securing fastening screws.
- Environmental Control: Operate the host control cabinet within a clean, climate-controlled environment shielded from excessive humidity, airborne dust, and severe temperature fluctuations (0°C to +60°C operating range).
Power-On and Power-Off Sequence
Following proper energization protocols prevents communication dropouts and protects PLC backplane bus integrity.
- Power-On Sequence:
- Verify that the IC687BEM742 module is securely seated in its designated rack slot and FIP communication cables are firmly connected to the channel ports.
- Switch on the primary rack power supply feeding the Series 90-70 system.
- Monitor the front-panel LED indicators (OK, RUN, CD1/TEN1, CD2/TEN2) to confirm proper power-up diagnostics, active scanning, and bus synchronization.
- Power-Off Sequence:
- Safely take the remote I/O drops offline or place the PLC CPU into a non-run/stop mode via programming software if required by the application.
- Power down the main electrical feeds supplying the PLC control rack.
- Allow circuits to fully de-energize before unseating or servicing the module.
Product Instructions
The FIP Bus Controller manages asynchronous scanning of remote drops (such as IC693 remote I/O nests or Field Control stations) and transfers data to the CPU once per scan. Module parameters and network configurations are configured entirely through MS-DOS or Windows-based programming software, eliminating physical DIP switches. Keep ventilation paths unblocked to prevent localized thermal stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
- Q: What system is the IC687BEM742 module designed for?
- A: It is deployed within the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC architecture to handle FIP network communications and remote rack expansion.
- Q: Does this module run independent control programs?
- A: No, it is a bus controller, not a CPU; its sole function is bus signal forwarding, data exchange, and remote rack network management alongside a host CPU.
- Q: What do the front-panel LEDs indicate?
- A: The top LEDs (OK and RUN) display module health and scanning status, while the bottom LEDs track carrier detect (CD) and transmit enable (TEN) activity for both communication channels.
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