Description
The GE Fanuc IC697CPX928 is a high-performance, single-slot Central Processing Unit (CPU) from the Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) family. It is designed for complex industrial applications requiring high-speed processing, large memory capacity, and advanced floating-point mathematical capabilities.

GE IC697CPX928
Product Introduction
The IC697CPX928 is a 32-bit CPU based on the Intel 80486DX4 microprocessor. This module is engineered to handle large-scale automation tasks that demand rapid logic execution and extensive data storage. It features a built-in coprocessor for high-speed floating-point calculations, making it ideal for motion control and process optimization. The module is programmed via MS-DOS or Windows-based software (Logicmaster 90, Control, or Proficy Machine Edition) using a serial port or Ethernet interface via an additional module.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Model Number | IC697CPX928 |
| Microprocessor | Intel 80486DX4 (32-bit) |
| Clock Speed | 96 MHz |
| User Memory | 1 Megabyte (Non-volatile Flash) |
| Floating Point | Integrated Math Coprocessor |
| Boolean Execution Speed | 0.4 microseconds per function |
| Backplane Current Draw | 3.1 Amps @ +5V DC |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F) |
| I/O Capacity | 12,000 Discrete Inputs/Outputs |
| Analog Capacity | 8,000 Analog Inputs/Outputs |
| Communication | 3-pin Serial Port (RS-485) on front panel |
Country of Origin
- Origin: United States (USA)
Application Areas
The IC697CPX928 is commonly deployed in mission-critical industrial sectors, including:
- Power Generation: Coordinating turbine controls and grid synchronization logic.
- Oil & Gas: Managing offshore platform safety systems and pipeline monitoring.
- Metals & Mining: High-speed control of rolling mills and blast furnace automation.
- Water Treatment: Large-scale SCADA integration for municipal water management.
- Automotive: Controlling complex assembly lines and high-precision robotic synchronization.
Product Technical Description
The CPU utilizes a VME64 standard backplane for high-speed communication with I/O modules. It includes three toggle switches on the front panel for controlling the PLC state (Run/Stop) and memory protection. It supports advanced programming features such as “C” programming, interrupt-driven I/O, and periodic subroutines. The non-volatile memory ensures that the user program and configuration are retained without the need for a battery, although a battery is used for time-of-day clock and data retention in RAM.
Product Usage Instructions
- Installation: Turn off the power to the Series 90-70 rack. Insert the IC697CPX928 into Slot 1 (the leftmost slot) of the primary rack.
- Configuration: Connect a PC to the front-panel serial port using an IC693CBL316 cable and a HE693SNP232 adapter. Use Proficy Machine Edition to configure the hardware rack.
- Battery Setup: Connect the lithium battery to the small 2-pin connector on the module to maintain the internal clock and RAM-based registers during power loss.
- Startup: Move the top toggle switch to the “Run” position. Ensure the “OK” and “RUN” LEDs are solid green.
- Troubleshooting: If the “FAULT” LED is illuminated, check the PLC Fault Table in the software to identify specific hardware or software conflicts.
Product Related News
As the Series 90-70 enters its legacy phase, the IC697CPX928 remains a highly sought-after component for “Sustainability” programs. Many global manufacturing plants are opting to maintain their existing 90-70 architecture by using refurbished CPX928 modules rather than undergoing expensive full-system migrations. Recent industrial shifts have seen these modules being paired with Ethernet bridge modules to allow 30-year-old hardware to communicate with modern IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) cloud analytics platforms.
Product Q&A (Common Questions)
Q: Can I use the IC697CPX928 to replace an older IC697CPX772? A: Yes, the CPX928 is a significantly more powerful CPU and is backward compatible with the 90-70 I/O modules, though it may require a newer version of the programming software to configure.
Q: What happens if the battery fails? A: The user program is stored in Flash memory and will remain intact. However, the Real-Time Clock (RTC) will reset, and any data stored in %R (Register) memory that hasn’t been saved to Flash will be lost.
Q: Why is the “OK” LED flashing? A: A flashing “OK” LED usually indicates that the CPU has not yet been configured or the power-up self-test has failed. Check the connection to the backplane.
Q: Does this CPU support Hot Swapping? A: No. You must always remove power from the PLC rack before inserting or removing the IC697CPX928 CPU to prevent electrical damage to the VME pins.
Q: What is the maximum number of racks this CPU can control? A: The IC697CPX928 can support up to 7 remote racks in addition to the local rack using Bus Transmitter and Receiver modules.


