GE Fanuc IC695CRU320

GE Fanuc IC695CRU320 Product Overview

The GE Fanuc IC695CRU320 is a high-performance, hot-redundant central processing unit (CPU) designed for the PACSystems RX3i programmable automation controller platform. Engineered to deliver high availability and system reliability in mission-critical industrial applications, the IC695CRU320 supports bumpless redundancy, large program memory capacity, and flexible communication options.

It is based on a 1 GHz Intel Celeron-M processor and integrates 64 MB of battery-backed RAM along with 64 MB of non-volatile flash memory. The IC695CRU320 is a powerful control engine suitable for complex automation environments such as continuous process industries, manufacturing systems, infrastructure control, and utility automation.

Key Features

1. True Hot-Standby Redundancy

• The IC695CRU320 is designed to operate in a redundant CPU configuration. It supports bumpless transfer between primary and backup CPUs, with a switchover time as low as one logic scan cycle.

• Redundancy is achieved by pairing two CPUs with dedicated redundancy memory exchange modules (RMX). These allow synchronized data sharing of up to 2 MB of user-defined variables between the primary and secondary CPUs.

2. High-Performance Processor

• The CPU is equipped with a 1 GHz Intel Celeron-M processor, offering high-speed execution of control logic.

• Boolean execution speed is typically 0.047 ms per 1,000 instructions, enabling quick response times in time-critical systems.

3. Flexible Memory Architecture

• 64 MB of battery-backed RAM allows retention of critical data during power failures.

• 64 MB of flash memory is used for permanent program storage and firmware.

• Supports up to 512 user-program blocks with a maximum of 128 KB per block.

• Error correction code (ECC) ensures memory integrity by detecting and correcting single-bit memory faults.

4. Communication Capabilities

• Dual onboard serial ports (RS-232 and RS-485) support multiple protocols, including SNP, Modbus RTU (Master/Slave), and serial I/O.

• Ethernet communication can be added through optional modules.

• Supports both high-speed PCI backplane and traditional RX3i/90-30 serial I/O modules, providing backward compatibility.

5. Diagnostics and Monitoring

• Eight status LEDs on the front panel provide real-time indication of system status, including CPU OK, Run mode, Outputs enabled, I/O force active, battery status, system fault, and communication activity on COM1 and COM2.

6. Built for Harsh Industrial Environments

• Operating temperature range: 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F).

• Designed to meet industrial EMC and safety standards.

• Flash memory rated for at least 100,000 write/erase cycles, ensuring long service life.

• Real-time clock (RTC) with low drift, less than 2 seconds per day.

Applications

The IC695CRU320 is ideal for high-reliability automation systems where uptime and data integrity are critical. Common application areas include:

• Oil & Gas: Control of compressors, separators, pipeline automation, and safety shutdown systems.

• Chemical and Petrochemical Plants: Batch control, continuous process automation, and redundancy for critical units.

• Power Generation and Distribution: Substation automation, turbine control, and energy management.

• Water and Wastewater: Pump station control, treatment plant redundancy systems.

• Manufacturing and Assembly Lines: Robotic assembly cells, production line coordination, SCADA integration.

• Material Handling and Logistics: Conveyor systems, automatic sorting lines, airport baggage control.

• Public Infrastructure: Tunnel and bridge automation, traffic management systems.

Why Choose GE Fanuc IC695CRU320

1. High Availability Design

The IC695CRU320 is built with true redundancy in mind. With synchronized data exchange and fast CPU switchover capabilities, system downtime is reduced to a minimum, making it suitable for 24/7 operations where interruptions can be costly.

2. Scalability and Compatibility

It supports legacy Series 90-30 I/O modules as well as modern RX3i I/O systems, allowing easy system expansion or migration. Engineers can reuse existing hardware, protecting investment in legacy equipment.

3. Reliable Performance in Harsh Environments

With robust industrial specifications, ECC memory, and high write endurance flash, the CRU320 is built for reliability in demanding applications.

4. Powerful Programming Support

Supports ladder logic, function block diagrams, structured text, and C programming through GE’s Proficy Machine Edition software. This gives engineers the flexibility to develop control strategies using the most appropriate language for their needs.

5. Enhanced Diagnostic Capabilities

The integrated status LEDs and communication fault monitoring provide engineers with rapid system visibility, reducing troubleshooting time and enhancing system maintainability.

6. Long-Term Support and Proven Platform

The RX3i platform, supported by Emerson (formerly GE Automation), is widely deployed and backed by long-term service support, documentation, and spare parts availability.

Conclusion

The GE Fanuc IC695CRU320 is a powerful, reliable, and flexible CPU module designed for high-availability industrial automation. It combines redundancy, performance, and legacy support in a single package, making it ideal for industries where downtime is unacceptable and system integrity is essential. Its robust architecture, proven reliability, and advanced diagnostics make it a go-to solution for automation professionals seeking long-term control performance with minimal risk.