Description
The IC697CMM742 is a high-performance Ethernet Interface Module designed for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) system. It enables the PLC to communicate over an Ethernet network using standard protocols, allowing for high-speed data exchange with other PLCs, Host computers, and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs).
Product Introduction
The IC697CMM742 acts as a gateway between the Series 90-70 backplane and a TCP/IP network. It supports the SRTP (Service Request Transfer Protocol) and Ethernet Global Data (EGD) protocols. This dual-protocol capability makes it a versatile solution for both point-to-point messaging and high-speed, “publish-subscribe” data broadcasting across an industrial facility.
The module features its own dedicated onboard processor to handle network traffic, ensuring that the main PLC CPU is not burdened by communication overhead. This architecture maintains deterministic control over the industrial process while providing robust networking capabilities.
GE IC697CMM742
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Module Type | Ethernet Interface (CMM) |
| System Compatibility | GE Fanuc Series 90-70 |
| Processor Speed | Dedicated onboard RISC processor |
| Communication Ports | 10Base5 (AUI) or 10Base2 (BNC) via transceiver |
| Protocols Supported | TCP/IP, SRTP, EGD, ICMP, ARP |
| EGD Performance | Up to 1000 exchanges (Published/Subscribed) |
| Current Consumption | 1.8 Amps @ +5V DC (from backplane) |
| Number of Slots | Occupies a single slot in the IC697 rack |
| Status Indicators | LEDs: Module OK, LAN Online, Serial Port Active, etc. |
| Configuration | Setup via MS-DOS Logicmaster or Proficy Machine Edition |
Country of Origin
- Origin: United States (USA)
Technical Description
The IC697CMM742 provides a bridge to the plant-wide network.
- SRTP Support: Ideal for peer-to-peer communication where confirmed delivery of data is required. It is commonly used for HMI/SCADA connections.
- EGD Support: Designed for real-time synchronization between multiple PLCs. EGD allows a PLC to broadcast a specific memory range to any other device on the network without requiring a handshake for every packet, significantly reducing network latency.
- Diagnostics: The module includes extensive internal diagnostics and a station manager port for troubleshooting network physical layer issues or viewing traffic statistics.
Product Usage Instructions
1. Hardware Setup
- Ensure the Series 90-70 rack is powered off.
- Insert the IC697CMM742 into a standard IC697 PLC slot.
- Connect an Ethernet transceiver to the 15-pin AUI port if using standard RJ45 cabling (10Base-T).
2. IP Addressing
- Configuration of the IP address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway is performed through the PLC programming software.
- Download the hardware configuration to the CPU; the CPU will then initialize the CMM742 with the assigned network parameters.
3. Maintenance
- Check the LED status. A solid “Module OK” indicates the hardware has passed its power-on self-test.
- The “LAN” LED indicates active communication with the network switch or hub.
Common Problems Q&A
Q: Does the IC697CMM742 support 100Mbps (Fast Ethernet)? A: No. This is a legacy module designed for 10Mbps (10Base-T/2/5) networks. However, it can communicate with 10/100/1000Mbps switches as long as the switch supports auto-negotiation or is forced to 10Mbps half-duplex.
Q: What is the purpose of the Station Manager port? A: The RS-232 Station Manager port allows a technician to connect a terminal or PC to run low-level diagnostics, view the routing table, and monitor error logs without interrupting the main PLC program.
Q: Can I replace an IC697CMM741 with an IC697CMM742? A: Yes. The CMM742 is the functional successor to the CMM741, offering expanded memory for Ethernet Global Data (EGD) and improved processing stability.
Q: Why is the “Module OK” LED flashing? A: A flashing LED typically indicates that the module has not received a valid configuration from the CPU or that the hardware has failed a self-test. Re-download the configuration or check for rack address conflicts.
Recommended Related Models
- GE IC697CPU782: The high-speed CPU module often paired with the CMM742 for Series 90-70 systems.
- GE IC697PWR711: The standard 100W power supply required to drive high-current modules like the Ethernet interface.
- GE IC697BEM731: Genius Bus Controller for distributed I/O.
- GE IC693CMM321: The Ethernet interface equivalent for the smaller Series 90-30 PLC systems.
- GE IC697MDL650: 24VDC Discrete Input module for field signal acquisition.
