GE Fanuc PACSystems RX3i IC695CPU315-BB Central Processing Unit

Product Overview

The IC695CPU315-BB is a high-performance central processing unit engineered by GE Fanuc for the advanced PACSystems RX3i controller series. Powered by an integrated 1 GHz Intel Celeron M processor, this computing engine executes deterministic real-time automation control over complex manufacturing logic, robotic assembly lines, and raw material handling systems. Critical continuous-process environments—including high-volume automotive assembly plants, municipal water treatment systems, and large-scale mining operations—rely on the IC695CPU315-BB to process dense multi-tier applications with sub-millisecond precision.

A defining feature of this controller platform is its innovative dual-bus backplane architecture, which integrates a high-speed PCI bus for rapid data throughput of advanced I/O alongside a serial bus for seamless migration and reuse of legacy Series 90-30 I/O modules. Outfitted with 20 Mbytes of battery-backed user RAM and 20 Mbytes of non-volatile flash memory, this specific -BB hardware configuration includes an enhanced component layout that vastly improves high-frequency noise immunity during power-up from flash sequences, minimizing plant unprogrammed downtime.

Advanced Processing Core & Network Communication

The structural layout, distributed interface protocols, and advanced firmware logic of the IC695CPU315-BB maintain stable control coordination across large automation networks:

• Multi-Language Program Execution: Fully supports mixed-programming configurations in Ladder Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and highly optimized native C blocks.

• Symbolic Variable Allocation: Utilizes flexible symbolic variables that automatically occupy any available portion of the user memory pool, eliminating the constraints of rigid, manual memory register mapping.

• Legacy System Migration: Mounts directly into the RX3i Universal Backplane, giving the processor structural control over legacy Series 90-30 expansion racks to preserve existing infrastructure investments.

• Dual Serial Communication Infrastructure: Features an onboard RS-232 port and an RS-485 port supporting Modbus RTU Slave, SNP Slave, and Serial I/O protocols for seamless local HMI and configuration links.

• HART Pass-Through Routing: Works in combination with compatible RX3i analog modules to bridge vital HART field instrument diagnostics directly through the CPU to higher-level asset management software.

Technical Performance Standards & Operating Bounds

Processor Operations & Maintenance FAQs

What specific field issue does the -BB hardware design update resolve over the older -AA release?

The -BB revision introduces a critical hardware-level update that significantly improves the noise immunity of the CPU module. In earlier configurations exposed to severe plant electromagnetic interference, the processor could experience occasional timing upsets when powering up and extracting hardware configurations and logic directly from the non-volatile flash memory.

Can the IC695CPU315-BB module be safely hot-swapped while the rack is active?

No. The PACSystems RX3i hardware platform does not support the hot swapping of central processing units or primary power supply modules. To avoid permanent electrical tracking damage across the high-speed PCI backplane connections, all system power to the rack must be completely isolated before inserting or removing the processor card.

What software version is required to configure and monitor this CPU hardware version?

Managing this hardware revision requires Proficy Machine Edition (PME) version 8.50 SIM 2 or later. If your plant implementation requires extended PROFINET device configuration using expanded subslot numbers, the programming station must be upgraded to PME version 8.60 SIM 8 or later.

Field Engineering & Installation Guide

• Enclosure Requirements and Hazardous Area Safety Compliance:

  The IC695CPU315-BB is classified as an open-type device containing live electrical traces and must be housed in an ultimate protective enclosure. At a minimum, the cabinet must provide an IP20 or NEMA/UL Type 1 rating to block external debris and maintain at least a pollution degree 2 environment. For hazardous ATEX Zone 2 atmospheres, the unit must be locked inside a certified EN60079-15 enclosure rated to IP54 or higher that requires specialized maintenance tools to open.

• Auxiliary Battery Pack Installation Protocols:

  When replacing an expired battery or adding an auxiliary battery pack (such as the IC693ACC302 or IC695ACC302) to an empty rack slot, the mechanical connection must be made while the CPU has power. If the battery is connected while the system power is isolated, the CPU may fail to clear its internal power-up routines. If a startup lockup occurs, disconnect the battery, power cycle the CPU empty, and re-insert the battery connector while the backplane is live.

• RS-485 COM 2 Initial Impedance and Network Contention:

  During initial system power-up, the COM 2 RS-485 port turns on with its internal transmitter enabled. The port transitions to a high-impedance state only after the front faceplate "CPU OK" LED lights up. If this serial port is linked into a multi-drop 2-wire network (Wired-OR) with other active devices, this brief power-up window can cause data contention. Ensure adjacent nodes are programmed to handle short communication drops during cabinet power cycles.