Description
- Model: GE IC695CPE310-ACAT
- Brand: GE Fanuc / Emerson (PACSystems)
- Series: RX3i PACSystems
- Core Function: High-performance Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Product Type: Controller Module
- Key Specs: 1.1 GHz Intel Processor, 10 MB User Memory, Dual Ethernet, Energy Pack Support
GE IC695CPE310-ACAT
Key Technical Specifications
- Processor Speed: 1.1 GHz (Intel Celeron)
- User Memory: 10 MB (Battery-backed or Energy Pack supported)
- Ethernet Ports: 1x RJ-45 (10/100/1000 Mbps) / 1x Embedded RS-232
- Backplane Compatibility: PCI (High Speed) and Serial (Legacy) RX3i backplanes
- Discrete I/O: Up to 32,768 points
- Analog I/O: Up to 32,768 channels
- Protocol Support: SRTP, Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet Global Data (EGD), OPC-UA (with firmware updates)
- Current Draw: 1.5 A at 3.3 V DC; 1.2 A at 5 V DC
- Revision: -ACAT (Specific hardware/software bundle version)
GE IC695CPE310-ACAT
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
The IC695CPE310 is the “powerhouse” of the RX3i line. It was designed to replace the aging Series 90-30 CPUs while providing a massive leap in processing speed and memory. In high-speed manufacturing or complex material handling, this CPU handles the massive logic trees and high-speed communication required for synchronized motion. The most common pain point for maintenance teams is the transition from battery-backed memory to “Energy Pack” technology—if the SuperCap fails or the battery dies, you lose your variables, and your turbine or conveyor won’t restart after a power cycle.
1. High-Speed Packaging & Bottling
Managing high-speed encoder inputs and synchronized servo outputs where millisecond scan times are required to prevent product breakage.
2. Water/Wastewater SCADA Integration
Acting as the central node for distributed I/O across large geographical areas, leveraging its 10 MB memory for significant data logging and alarming.
3. Power Generation Monitoring
Found in balance-of-plant (BOP) systems where the CPU must interface with both legacy serial devices and modern Ethernet-based protection relays.
Case Study: The “Monday Morning” Memory Loss
Background: A large distribution center in the Northeast was running an RX3i system with a CPE310. Following a routine weekend power shutdown for electrical maintenance, the PLC came back “blank” on Monday morning.
The Problem: The site was still using the old CR2450 lithium battery instead of the modern IC695ACC402 Energy Pack. The battery had depleted during the 48-hour outage. The original programmer was long gone, and the backup files on the HMI were two years out of date.
The Solution: We supplied a fresh IC695CPE310-ACAT and, more importantly, an IC695ACC402 Energy Pack. We helped the site team walk through the “Logic Developer” settings to enable the “Flash to RAM” power-up sequence, ensuring the program is always restored from non-volatile memory even if the power is out for months.
The Result: The system was restored in hours once the board arrived.
- Avoided Loss: Prevented an estimated $40,000 per day in shipping delays and labor idle time.
- Takeaway: If you aren’t using the Energy Pack, you’re playing Russian Roulette with your uptime. Upgrade to the capacitor-based backup immediately.
GE IC695CPE310-ACAT
Compatible Replacement Models
| Original Model | Replacement Model | Compatibility | Key Differences | Workload |
| IC695CPE305 | IC695CPE310 | ✅ Direct | 5MB vs 10MB Memory; faster CPU | Plug & Play |
| IC695CPE310-ABAB | IC695CPE310-ACAT | ✅ Direct | ACAT is a newer hardware revision | Plug & Play |
| IC695CPE330 | IC695CPE310 | ⚠️ Software | CPE330 is significantly faster | Check scan time limits |
| IC693CPU374 | IC695CPE310 | ❌ Incompatible | 90-30 vs RX3i platform | Full rack migration |
Engineer’s Advice: The “ACAT” suffix refers to a specific bundle or firmware revision level. Most RX3i hardware is backward compatible, so a newer CPE310 will almost always run an older project. However, make sure your Proficy Machine Edition (PME) version is 7.0 or higher. If you have PME 5.5, it won’t even “see” the CPE310 in the hardware configuration.
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | CPU Related? | Quick Check | Action |
| “Run” LED Off | Processor in Stop Mode | ✅ High | Check PME software status | Switch to Run Mode |
| “Fault” LED Red | I/O Configuration Mismatch | ⚠️ Medium | Check the PLC Fault Table | Resolve I/O hardware conflict |
| “Outputs Enabled” Off | Force Active / Safety Trip | ⚠️ Medium | Check for “Forced” bits in PME | Clear forces; check safety loop |
| “LAN” LED Off | Network/Port Failure | ✅ High | Ping the CPU IP address | Replace cable/CPU |
Expert Maintenance Tips:
- Energy Pack vs. Battery: ❗ Critical! If your CPE310 has a small cable plugged into the bottom, that’s the Energy Pack. Do not unplug this while the system is powered down, or you will lose your RAM data. If you are using a battery, replace it every 12 months—don’t wait for the “Low Bat” light.
- The “PCI” Backplane: The RX3i uses a high-speed PCI bus. Ensure the pins on the back of the CPE310 are clean and straight. I’ve seen many “Comm Errors” that were simply caused by a bent pin on the high-speed bus connector.
- Firmware Updates: If you are experiencing random “Watchdog Timeouts,” check your firmware version. Versions prior to 8.00 had several known communication stack bugs that were fixed in later ACAT-level revisions.
