Description
GE Fanuc / Emerson IC695CRU320 | PACSystems RX3i Redundancy CPU
The IC695CRU320 is a high-performance Central Processing Unit (CPU) designed for the PACSystems RX3i platform. It is specifically engineered for Control Redundancy applications, allowing for synchronized dual-processor configurations to ensure zero downtime in mission-critical industrial processes.
Product Technical Description
The IC695CRU320 is a Celeron-based processor that provides high-speed logic execution and large memory capacity. Unlike standard CPUs, the “CRU” designation indicates its ability to act as either a Primary or Secondary unit in a redundant pair.
- Redundancy Link: It utilizes dedicated fiber-optic redundancy modules (such as the IC695RMX128/228) to synchronize data between two identical CPUs in separate racks.
- Switchover Performance: In the event of a hardware failure on the primary unit, the secondary IC695CRU320 takes over control in less than one logic scan (typically under 3.1ms).
- Architecture: Built on the PCI-based RX3i backplane, it supports high-speed data throughput and is programmed using the Machine Edition software suite.

GE IC695CRU320
Product Datasheet (Parameters)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Product ID | IC695CRU320 |
| Processor Type | 1 GHz Celeron |
| User Memory | 64 MB (Battery-backed RAM) |
| I/O Capacity | 32k bits Discrete, 32k words Analog |
| Redundancy Support | Hot Standby / Dual CPU Redundancy |
| Ethernet Support | Requires IC695ETM001 module for networking |
| Serial Ports | 1x RS-232, 1x RS-485 (Built-in) |
| Current Consumption | 1.0 Amps @ 3.3V DC; 1.2 Amps @ 5.0V DC |
| Programming Language | Ladder Logic, Structured Text, C, Function Block |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Technical Characteristics
- Data Synchronization: Automatically synchronizes I/O data, internal registers, and system variables between the two racks.
- Hot Swapping: Supports the replacement of the redundant CPU or associated modules without interrupting the process.
- Diagnostics: Features a seven-segment display on the front panel to provide error codes and status information (e.g., “P” for Primary, “B” for Backup).
- Security: Integrated hardware security features to protect intellectual property and prevent unauthorized access to logic.
Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)
Q: Can I use one IC695CRU320 as a standalone CPU? A: Yes, the CRU320 can operate as a standard standalone CPU. However, its primary value is its redundancy capability, so it is typically more cost-effective to use the CPE series for non-redundant tasks.
Q: Do I need a special backplane for the CRU320? A: It requires a Universal Backplane (IC695CHS series) to leverage the PCI bus speed, which is necessary for the high-speed data synchronization required in redundancy.
Q: How do I store the program permanently? A: The CPU uses non-volatile Flash memory. You must “Write to Flash” in the software to ensure the program is retained during long-term power loss when the battery is depleted.
Q: What is the maximum distance between the redundant CPUs? A: This depends on the fiber-optic cable used with the RMX modules. Standard multimode fiber supports up to 300 meters, while single-mode fiber can extend much further for geographically separated racks.
Similar Model Recommendations (8 Units)
- IC695CPE330: The modern RX3i CPU with integrated Ethernet and much higher processing speeds.
- IC695CPU320: The non-redundant version of the CRU320.
- IC695CRU320-CA: A variant of the CRU320 often designated for specific conformal coating or region-specific applications.
- IC695CPE305: A compact version of the RX3i CPU for smaller I/O counts.
- IC695RMX128: The Redundancy Memory Xchange module required to link two CRU320s.
- IC695PSA040: The 120/240V AC power supply typically used in the same rack.
- IC695ETM001: The dedicated Ethernet interface module for communication with the CRU320.
- IC693CPU374: A legacy Series 90-30 CPU (for users considering system upgrades to RX3i).


