General Electric IC697BEM711 Series 90-70 Bus Receiver Module

Description

The General Electric IC697BEM711 is a high-performance Bus Receiver Module designed specifically for the Series 90-70 programmable controller platform. This single-slot module serves as the critical parallel interface that allows expansion from a main PLC rack to a maximum of seven additional IC697 expansion racks. Operating with high-speed parallel data transfer, the IC697BEM711 ensures seamless multi-rack communication over an inter-rack cable length of up to 50 feet (15 meters).

Equipped with dual connectors for upstream CPU connection and daisy-chained rack configurations, the module must be installed strictly in slot 1 of each expansion rack. It features three diagnostic green LEDs that provide immediate visual confirmation of module status, rack activity, and the proper termination plug presence. Fully software-configurable via programming software, the IC697BEM711 supports advanced industrial control strategies including hold-last-state output behavior during communication faults.

Features

• High-speed parallel bus expansion interface for General Electric Series 90-70 systems
• Supports expansion up to seven additional PLC racks
• Supports hold-last-state output functionality upon CPU communication loss
• Built-in system fault isolation for rapid diagnostics
• Three status LED indicators for module health, rack activity, and bus terminator presence
• Software-configurable with no hardwired DIP switches required
• Includes mechanical keying to prevent incorrect slot insertion

Applications

• Large-scale industrial automation and discrete manufacturing lines
• Multi-rack PLC architecture expansion in processing plants
• Legacy General Electric Series 90-70 system upgrades and maintenance
• Distributed control rooms requiring reliable high-speed rack-to-rack data exchange

Technical Specifications

Connections / Interfaces

• Expansion Port In (Towards CPU): Connects upstream to a BTM (Bus Transmitter Module) or preceding BEM 711 module.
• Expansion Port Out (Away from CPU): Connects downstream to subsequent expansion racks; requires IC697ACC702 terminator plug on the final rack in the chain.
• Status Indicators: Rack Configured, Termination Installed, and Expansion Port Enabled LEDs.

Installation Guidelines

• Ensure all rack power is turned off before installing or removing any module.
• Insert the module exclusively into slot 1 of the designated expansion rack.
• Set the remote rack identification address using the BERG jumpers located behind the power supply.
• Install the required IC697ACC702 terminator plug on the expansion port out of the final rack in the daisy-chain configuration.
• Configure the module into the system using the applicable programming software utility.