IC693CPU331 GE Fanuc Series 90-30 10MHz PLC Processor

Product Overview

The GE Fanuc IC693CPU331 is a reliable, single-slot modular CPU belonging to the widely deployed Series 90-30 PLC family. Powered by an Intel 80188 microprocessor running at a 10 MHz clock speed, this module offers a solid, cost-effective processing engine for small-to-medium industrial applications. It features 16 Kbytes of battery-backed user program memory, a swift typical scan rate of 0.4 milliseconds per 1K of Boolean logic, and a built-in serial port supporting SNP/SNP-X slave communication protocols. Weighing approximately 0.35 kg (0.77 lbs), this compact modular CPU easily slides into Slot 1 of any standard 5-slot or 10-slot Series 90-30 CPU baseplate, making system scaling straightforward and efficient.

Core Technical Advantages

• Flexible I/O Addressing Grid: Seamlessly coordinates up to 512 discrete inputs, 512 discrete outputs, 128 words of analog inputs, and 64 words of analog outputs to handle mixed-signal automation cells.
• Onboard System Diagnostics & Overrides: Unlike basic embedded controllers, the IC693CPU331 supports direct I/O forces and overrides, giving maintenance teams excellent troubleshooting flexibility during commissioning.
• Scalable Baseplate Expansion: Supports up to 4 local expansion baseplates or remote I/O baseplates, allowing your hardware architecture to grow organically alongside your factory floor footprint.

Technical Specifications

Installation & Engineering Guide

• Baseplate Mounting Slot: Always install the 0.35 kg IC693CPU331 in **Slot 1** (the dedicated CPU slot) of your Series 90-30 baseplate. It is fully compatible with both 5-slot (IC693CHS397) and 10-slot (IC693CHS391) CPU baseplates. Fully isolate power to the rack before sliding the module into its alignment tracks.
• Memory Backup Options: Out of the box, user program files are stored in volatile RAM backed up by the power supply battery. For long-term non-volatile storage, consider installing an optional EEPROM or EPROM chip directly into the CPU board socket to prevent code loss during prolonged power outages.
• Comm Interface Wiring: The CPU’s built-in serial port does not reside on the card itself; it is routed to the 15-pin D-shell connector found on the system's Power Supply module. If your project demands multi-point master communication (such as Modbus RTU or CCM), integrate a dedicated CMM (IC693CMM301) or PCM module.

Technical FAQs

Q1: There are some references listing the operating temperature up to 140°C. Is that correct?
A1: That is actually a classic datasheet unit typo! The true operating temperature range for the IC693CPU331 is 32°F to 140°F, which translates to a standard industrial range of 0°C to 60°C. Operating the module anywhere near 140°C would instantly destroy the circuitry.

Q2: Can I program or monitor this PLC using standard Modbus RTU out of the box?
A2: No, the built-in serial port on the power supply only supports SNP and SNP-X slave protocols. To run Modbus RTU or act as an SNP/SNP-X Master, you will need to add a Coprocessor/Communications Control Module (like the IC693CMM301) or a Programmable Coprocessor Module (PCM).

Q3: Does the lightweight 0.35 kg construction affect its mechanical resilience in heavy-vibration environments?
A3: Not at all. The 0.35 kg form factor is designed to lock securely into the baseplate rails using positive-locking plastic tabs. This ensures the electrical backplane connections remain highly robust and completely seated, even under continuous industrial vibration.