IC697BEM742 | GE Fanuc | Fanuc Fip Bus Controller

Product Overview

The GE IC697BEM742 is a FIP Bus Controller (FBC) module for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC family. It interfaces the Series 90-70 PLC with FIP (Factory Instrumentation Protocol) or WorldFIP (EN50170) industrial networks, enabling high-speed deterministic communication with remote I/O, Field Control stations, and generic FIP devices. With 2MB RAM + 2MB Flash memory and dual redundant bus connectors, it is ideal for mission-critical distributed control applications.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: IC697BEM742
• Product Type: FIP Bus Controller (FBC)
• Series: GE Fanuc Series 90-70
• Network Protocol: FIP / WorldFIP (EN50170), 1.0 MHz operation
• Memory: 2MB RAM + 2MB Flash
• Data Rate: 1 Mbit/second
• Bus Connectors: Dual FIP interfaces (supports redundant bus cable)
• Backplane Current: 1.3A @ 5VDC
• Serial Port: RS-485 for diagnostics/configuration
• Status Indicators: 6 LEDs + Restart pushbutton
• Weight: 1.25 lbs (0.57 kg)
• Max per PLC: Up to 4 FIP Bus Controllers per Series 90-70 system

Features & Benefits

• Dual Bus Connectors: Supports optional redundant FIP bus cabling for fault-tolerant networks
• High-Speed Communication: 1 Mbit/s deterministic data exchange for real-time control
• Large Memory Buffer: 2MB RAM + 2MB Flash handles extensive I/O configurations
• Wide Device Support: Connects Field Control BIUs, Series 90-30 remote I/O, and generic FIP devices
• Network Scalability: Supports up to 128 devices per FIP bus segment

Applications

• Power plant distributed turbine control
• Oil & gas pipeline SCADA with FIP networks
• Water/wastewater treatment remote I/O integration
• Manufacturing lines with Field Control I/O stations

Installation Guide

1. Slot Placement: Install in the main rack only — FBC cannot be placed in expansion racks
2. Power Down: Turn OFF rack power before module insertion
3. Insert Module: Align the IC697BEM742 with the VME backplane connector and press firmly until seated
4. Bus Wiring: Connect FIP bus cable to the dual 9-pin D-sub connectors on the front panel
5. Configuration: Use CIMPLICITY Control 90 or Proficy Machine Edition to configure FIP exchanges and device addresses
6. Redundancy: If using dual bus cables, connect both ports to separate bus segments
7. Power Up & Test: Verify LED status and confirm communication with remote devices

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between IC697BEM742 and IC697BEM744?
A: The IC697BEM742 operates at 1.0 MHz on FIP/WorldFIP networks, while the IC697BEM744 supports 2.5 MHz WorldFIP for higher-speed applications.

Q: Can I use this with Series 90-30 PLCs?
A: No, the IC697BEM742 is specifically for Series 90-70 main racks. Series 90-30 uses different FIP interface modules.

Q: How many FIP devices can one controller support?
A: Up to 128 devices per FIP bus segment, including Field Control stations, remote I/O racks, and generic devices.

Q: Is redundant bus cabling supported?
A: Yes, the dual FIP connectors allow for redundant bus configuration to improve network reliability.

Selection Tips

• Verify your FIP network speed requirement (1.0 MHz vs 2.5 MHz) before selecting between BEM742 and BEM744
• Ensure your Series 90-70 CPU is Version 7.0 or later for full compatibility
• Plan bus topology carefully — maximum 4 FBCs per PLC, main rack only
• Use shielded twisted-pair FIP cable to minimize EMI in industrial environments
• Consider IC697BEM741 for half-slot applications if rack space is limited