GE Fanuc PACSystems RX3i IC695NIU001 Ethernet Network Interface Unit

Description

The IC695NIU001 functions as a high-performance Ethernet Network Interface Unit (NIU) within the PACSystems RX3i control platform series. This dual-width communication module is engineered to enable the remote deployment and automatic execution of standard PACSystems RX3i and Series 90-30 I/O modules across a distributed Ethernet network architecture. Once established via user configuration, data exchange operates completely automatically, allowing system control to be driven by any master device capable of handling Ethernet Global Data (EGD) transfers. The IC695NIU001 continuously delivers diagnostic status markers back to the primary controller during every single data exchange, allowing application logic to dynamically monitor link health and issue real-time commands to the remote chassis. It utilizes basic Ethernet modules (such as the IC695ETM001) mounted in an RX3i Universal Backplane to establish network pathways, supporting secure SRTP TCP/IP communications and seamless integration with high-availability redundancy controllers.

Features

• Coordinates fully automatic, high-speed remote I/O data transfers over network lines via Ethernet Global Data (EGD) services.
• Provides 20 Kbytes of selectable local logic memory space supporting standard programming languages (excluding C programming).
• Embeds 10 Mbytes of non-volatile flash user memory for secure local application data and hardware configuration backup.
• Features an integrated, battery-backed calendar clock to preserve precise system time logs during host chassis power outages.
• Incorporates two dedicated onboard serial communication ports (one RS-232 COM1 port and one RS-485 COM2 port) for local peripheral or programmer connections.
• Supports execution of unique COMMREQ commands issued via Ethernet by C application blocks running in a master PACSystems RX7i or RX3i controller.

Applications

• Distributed Remote I/O Networks: Extending and centralizing remote PACSystems RX3i and Series 90-30 I/O drops across expansive plant locations.
• High-Speed Process Synchronization: Utilizing Ethernet Global Data highways to manage fast data exchanges in multi-node continuous manufacturing operations.
• Infrastructure Redundancy Frameworks: Deploying automated fieldbus interfaces alongside redundancy controllers in mission-critical water, power, or oil and gas utilities.

Technical Specifications

Connections/Interfaces

Installation Guidelines

• Verify that all incoming electrical power to the RX3i Universal Backplane is completely turned off before inserting or removing the network hardware.
• Position the unit firmly inside a primary Universal Backplane (IC695CHS0xx) slot 0. As a dual-width module, it occupies two physical slots (typically slots 2 and 3). Do not place it in the rightmost slot of the backplane, as this slot lacks a physical securing latch.
• Upon turning on rack power and completing internal system initialization, ensure that the front-panel NIU OK LED shines steady green, while the NIU SCANNING I/O and EN LEDs remain unlit until active scanning is configured.
• To maximize the operational shelf life of the external lithium cell, do not attach the backup battery connector until after the module has been plugged in and powered up for the first time.
• When executing field maintenance or replacing an exhausted battery, always leave rack power turned on; inserting a new battery pack while the system is completely powered down can trigger a startup fault during the next power cycle.

Compliance and Certifications

• CSA: Certified by the Canadian Standards Association for safe deployment as industrial process control equipment within ordinary, non-hazardous locations.
• Factory Mutual (FM): Approved as nonincendive equipment intended for use in Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, and D hazardous environments.