The GE IC694BEM340 is a PACSystems RX3i FIP Bus Controller module designed to manage high-speed communication between the PLC backplane and field devices over the FIP (Factory Instrumentation Protocol) network.
It acts as a dedicated communication interface module, enabling distributed I/O systems, remote stations, and industrial field devices to exchange data reliably with the RX3i controller. This module is commonly used in large-scale automation architectures where deterministic communication and network segmentation are required.
Because of its role as a bus controller, the IC694BEM340 is essential in systems that rely on structured fieldbus communication rather than direct I/O wiring.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE (General Electric / Emerson legacy) |
| Model | IC694BEM340 |
| Series | PACSystems RX3i |
| Product Type | FIP Bus Controller Module |
| Communication Protocol | FIP 1.0 (Fieldbus / Industrial Ethernet-like legacy protocol) |
| Function | PLC-to-fieldbus communication interface |
| Backplane Voltage | 5 VDC |
| Current Consumption | ~300 mA |
| Data Exchange Capacity | Up to 128 bytes per cycle |
| Baud Rates | 38.4 kbps / 76.8 kbps / 153.6 kbps |
| Diagnostics | LED indicators (OK / COM status) |
| Architecture | Open system architecture |
| Network Type | Token-based FIP bus communication |
| Module Slots | Supports multiple controllers per RX3i rack (system dependent) |
| EMC Protection | Industrial-grade noise immunity |
Physical Dimensions (L × W × H)
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | 135 × 140 × 38 mm |
| Weight | ~0.40 – 1.36 kg |
The compact 135 × 140 × 38 mm structure and industrial-grade weight range around ~0.4 kg (typical configuration) ensure stable rack installation while maintaining reliable high-speed fieldbus communication performance.
Recommended Related Models
- GE IC694CPU310 – RX3i CPU module
- GE IC695CPU series – Advanced PACSystems controllers
- GE IC694MDL646 – Digital input module
- GE IC694ALG508 – Analog input module
- GE IC694PWR330 – Power supply module
Popular GE RX3i Communication & Control Modules
- RX3i CPU and rack-based controllers
- FIP / fieldbus communication interface modules
- Remote I/O and distributed control systems
- Industrial Ethernet and legacy bus controllers
- High-reliability process automation systems
These systems are widely used in process industries, energy production, manufacturing automation, and large distributed control architectures.
