Description
The GE PACSystems RX3i IC695CRU320 is a high-performance Redundancy Central Processing Unit (CPU). It is specifically designed for high-availability applications where system downtime is not an option. This CPU supports dual-unit redundancy, allowing two identical controllers to operate in a “Master/Backup” configuration with synchronized data transfer.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
- Model Number: IC695CRU320
- System Family: PACSystems RX3i
- Processor Speed: 1 GHz (Intel Celeron)
- User Logic Memory: 64 MB
- Redundancy Support: Dedicated hardware-based hot standby redundancy
- Communication Interfaces: * 1x RS-232 (Serial)
- 1x RS-485 (Serial)
- Backplane Support: Dual-bus (supports both PCI and Serial backplanes)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (32°F to +140°F)
- Floating Point Math: Yes
- Protocol Support: Modbus RTU Slave, SNP, Serial I/O
GE IC695CRU320
GE IC695CRU320
Application Fields
The IC695CRU320 is found in critical infrastructure and continuous process environments:
- Oil & Gas Pipelines: Managing leak detection and pumping stations where local control must never fail.
- Power Generation: Controlling synchronization and protection logic for generators.
- Water Treatment: Supervising large-scale filtration and chemical dosing systems.
- Marine & Offshore: DP (Dynamic Positioning) systems and engine room automation.
- Tunnel & Bridge Ventilation: Ensuring life-safety systems remain active during hardware maintenance.
Product Usage & Installation
- Chassis Slot: The CPU must be installed in a PACSystems RX3i Universal Backplane (IC695CHS series). It typically occupies two slots due to its thermal and processing density.
- Redundancy Link: To achieve hot standby redundancy, two IC695CRU320 units must be linked using specialized Redundancy Memory Xchange (RMX) modules (such as the IC695RMX128).
- Power Supply: Ensure the RX3i power supply (IC695PSA series) is sized correctly for the 1 GHz processor, which has a higher current draw than standard CPUs.
- Configuration: Use GE Proficy Machine Edition (PME) software to configure the “Redundancy” tab. Both CPUs must have identical hardware configurations and logic for the redundancy link to initialize.
- Battery Backup: Install a fresh battery (IC693ACC302) to preserve user memory and the real-time clock during power outages.
Product Technical Description
Technically, the IC695CRU320 is a PCI-based controller. By utilizing the high-speed PCI bus of the RX3i backplane, it can transfer massive amounts of I/O data to the RMX module for synchronization with the backup unit. This “synchronized memory” approach ensures that if the Primary CPU fails, the Backup CPU can take over the control loop in less than one scan cycle (bumpless transfer). Unlike standard CPUs, the CRU320 features specialized internal logic to handle state-matching and switch-over diagnostics without requiring complex user programming.
Q&A (Common Questions)
Q: Can I use the IC695CRU320 as a standalone CPU? A: Yes, it can function as a high-performance standalone CPU. However, its primary value and cost-justification lie in its hardware-level redundancy capabilities.
Q: What is the difference between the IC695CPU320 and the IC695CRU320? A: The “CPU320” is the standard high-speed processor, while the “CRU320” contains the additional firmware and hardware triggers necessary to manage a redundant partner unit.
Q: Do I need a special backplane for redundancy? A: You must use the IC695CHSxxx Universal Backplane series, as the redundancy link requires the high-speed PCI bus that these backplanes provide.
Q: Does it support Ethernet on the front panel? A: No. The CRU320 uses serial ports for local diagnostics. To add Ethernet capability (SRTP, Modbus TCP, or Profinet), you must add an IC695ETM001 or IC695PNC001 module to the rack.
Similar Model Recommendations
- GE IC695RMX128: Redundancy Memory Xchange module (required for sync).
- GE IC695CPU320: The non-redundant 1 GHz CPU equivalent.
- GE IC695PSA400: 120/240V AC, 125V DC, 40W Power Supply.
- GE IC695ETM001: Ethernet 10/100 Communications module.
- GE IC695PNC001: Profinet Controller module for distributed I/O.
For technical manuals, firmware updates, or to check availability for the GE IC695CRU320, please contact our PACSystems specialists.
