GE IC697CMM741 Ethernet Controller Module

1. Working Principle

• Data Reception and Conversion
  The module receives data from the CPU (such as PLC operating status, I/O point data, control commands, etc.) through the internal backplane bus of the PLC (such as the VME bus of the 90-70 series), and converts this data into digital signals that comply with Ethernet communication standards.
• Protocol Parsing and Encapsulation
  The built-in communication processor supports industrial Ethernet protocols such as TCP/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, and Ethernet/IP. It encapsulates PLC data in the selected protocol format (such as packaging into TCP data packets). At the same time, it parses external commands from Ethernet (such as remote control commands, configuration parameters), converts them into signals recognizable by the PLC, and transmits them to the CPU through the backplane bus.
• Ethernet Transmission and Interaction
  It sends the encapsulated data to the Ethernet network through its own Ethernet interface (such as 10Base-T/100Base-TX), realizing real-time communication with upper computers (such as SCADA systems, HMI), other PLCs, or industrial equipment. At the same time, it monitors data in the network to complete responses or data reception.

2. Functional Characteristics

• Powerful Communication Capability
  • Supports multiple industrial Ethernet protocols: including the basic TCP/IP protocol, as well as Modbus TCP/IP (for data reading and writing between devices), Ethernet/IP (for industrial equipment networking), etc., compatible with mainstream industrial automation communication standards.
  • Dual-port design: Usually equipped with 2 Ethernet ports, which can realize “daisy chain” or “redundant network” connections, improving the flexibility and reliability of network topology (such as building a ring network through dual ports to avoid communication interruption caused by single-point faults).
  • High-speed data transmission: Supports 10Mbps/100Mbps adaptive Ethernet rates, meeting the transmission needs of real-time data (such as high-frequency collected sensor data) in industrial scenarios.
• High Reliability and Stability
  • Built-in power-off protection: The module is equipped with a backup battery, which can provide at least 6 months of backup for configuration information and cached data in RAM after power-off, ensuring no need for reconfiguration after restart.
  • Self-inspection and diagnostic functions: The firmware integrates a self-inspection program, which can real-time monitor the hardware status of the module (such as interface connection, power supply, protocol operation), and feed back fault information (such as network interruption, protocol errors) through indicator lights or diagnostic tools, facilitating quick troubleshooting.
  • Industrial-grade design: Supports wide temperature operation (usually 0-60℃) and anti-electromagnetic interference (complies with industrial EMC standards), adapting to complex electromagnetic environments such as factory workshops.
• Flexible Configuration and Management
  • Supports multiple configuration methods: Parameter configuration (such as IP address, protocol selection, communication baud rate) can be performed through dedicated software in Windows or MS-DOS environments (such as GE Fanuc’s programming software), and remote configuration via the network is also available.
  • Site management tools: Provide complete network diagnostic functions, allowing viewing of connected device lists, data transmission rates, packet loss rates, etc., facilitating network status monitoring and optimization.
• Data Security and Continuity
  • Supports data caching: In case of temporary network interruption, it can temporarily cache key data and retransmit after the network is restored to avoid data loss.
  • Permission management: Some versions support simple access control (such as IP address filtering) to restrict illegal device access and ensure communication security.

3. Application Fields

• Manufacturing Automation
  In automobile production lines and mechanical processing workshops, the module connects the 90-70 series PLCs to the factory Ethernet, realizing data interaction with SCADA systems and HMI, real-time monitoring of production line operation status (such as equipment start-stop, fault alarms), and receiving remote control commands (such as adjusting production parameters).
  Supports multi-PLC collaboration: When the production line includes multiple 90-70 series PLCs, the module can realize synchronous control between PLCs through Ethernet (such as process connection, data sharing).
• Process Control Field
  In process industries such as chemical engineering, petroleum, and water treatment, the module can transmit process data collected by PLCs (such as temperature, pressure, flow) to upper computers, and receive remotely set control parameters (such as valve opening, pump speed) to realize distributed process control.
• Energy and Infrastructure
  In power substations and new energy power stations (such as photovoltaic and wind power), the module connects the 90-70 series PLCs to the monitoring network, realizing remote status monitoring and control of equipment (such as circuit breakers, inverters) to ensure the stable operation of energy systems.
  In the signal systems of rail transit (such as subways and light rails), it is used for communication between PLCs and dispatch centers to transmit train operation status and dispatch commands.
• Building Automation
  In the air conditioning, lighting, and security systems of large buildings, if controlled by the 90-70 series PLCs, the module can realize Ethernet connection between the PLCs and the Building Management System (BMS) for centralized management of equipment energy consumption and operation status.