IC695CPE330 | GE Fanuc PACSystems RX3i 1.6GHz Dual-Core 64MB CPU Controller

Module Overview

The IC695CPE330 is a flagship high-performance controller within the GE Fanuc (Emerson) PACSystems RX3i series. Engineered for data-intensive applications and high-speed synchronized motion, it features a 1.6 GHz Dual-Core microprocessor. This CPU is designed to reside on the RX3i Universal Backplane, leveraging PCI bus speeds for rapid I/O data throughput. A standout feature is its native support for high-availability configurations, including full controller redundancy, ensuring zero-downtime operation in critical infrastructure environments.

Detailed Engineering Specifications

The IC695CPE330 transitions away from traditional backplane power, drawing its requirements specifically from the 24VDC rail to drive its advanced dual-core architecture.

Networking and Protocol Integration

The IC695CPE330 is a communication powerhouse, featuring three built-in Gigabit Ethernet ports. LAN 1 is a dedicated independent interface, while LAN 2 consists of two ports connected via an internal switch, ideal for daisy-chaining or Ring topologies. It supports a comprehensive suite of industrial protocols, including PROFINET (as an I/O Controller), Modbus TCP/RTU, and Ethernet Global Data (EGD). Unlike legacy CPUs, this model does not include onboard serial ports, shifting all primary telemetry to high-speed Ethernet-based standards.

Memory Protection and Energy Pack

To safeguard critical logic and variable data, the IC695CPE330 is designed to work in tandem with the IC695ACC402 Energy Pack. This capacitor-based backup system provides the necessary power to write the entire 64MB of user memory to non-volatile storage during a power failure event. This maintenance-free solution eliminates the need for lithium batteries and ensures long-term reliability for remote or inaccessible installations.

Technical FAQ

Why does the IC695CPE330 occupy two slots?

Due to the high-performance dual-core processor and integrated heat dissipation requirements, the physical housing is wider than standard I/O modules. It must be installed in the CPU slots of a Universal Backplane (IC695CHS007, CHS012, or CHS016).

Does this CPU support Hot Swapping?

While RX3i I/O modules support Hot Insertion and Removal, the IC695CPE330 controller itself should only be installed or removed when the rack power is completely disconnected to prevent bus synchronization errors or electrical damage.

How is the 1.6GHz clock speed different from the 1.0GHz listed in some documentation?

The IC695CPE330 utilizes an adaptive 1.6GHz Dual-Core processor. Some early technical overviews referenced 1.0GHz during initial development, but the production-grade units operate at the higher 1.6GHz frequency to handle the overhead of redundant synchronization and gigabit networking.