The GE IC697BEM742 is a high-performance FIP Bus Controller (FBC) module designed for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC systems. It serves as a communication bridge between the PLC and FIP / WorldFIP fieldbus networks, enabling deterministic data exchange with distributed I/O devices and remote control systems.
Engineered for complex automation architectures, this module provides dual-channel redundancy, fast communication speed, and advanced diagnostics, making it ideal for mission-critical industrial environments where uptime and reliability are essential.
Technical Specifications
The IC697BEM742 delivers reliable fieldbus communication with strong scalability and advanced diagnostics.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | IC697BEM742 |
| Product Type | FIP Bus Controller Module |
| Series | GE Fanuc Series 90-70 |
| Fieldbus Type | FIP / WorldFIP |
| Communication Speed | 1 Mbit/s |
| Channels | Dual FIP bus channels (redundant) |
| Memory | 2 MB RAM + 2 MB Flash |
| Device Capacity | Up to 4 controllers per PLC system |
| Function | Remote I/O scanning & data exchange |
| Interface Ports | 2 × 9-pin FIP connectors + 15-pin serial port |
| Power Supply | 5 V DC (backplane powered) |
| Backplane Current | ~1.3 A |
| Diagnostics | 6 LED indicators + reset pushbutton |
| Configuration | Software-based (Windows programming tools) |
The module independently scans the FIP network, collects I/O data, and transfers it to the CPU, reducing processing load and improving system responsiveness.
Physical Dimensions & Weight
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 292 mm × 38 mm × 229 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 0.4 – 0.57 kg |
(Standardized from 3.8 × 29.2 × 22.9 cm industrial format)
Its standard Series 90-70 rack design allows seamless installation into existing PLC systems without mechanical changes.
Recommended Related Models
For building a complete fieldbus control architecture, IC697BEM742 is typically used with:
- GE IC697CPU772 Central Processing Unit
- GE IC697BEM711 Bus Receiver Module
- GE IC697BEM731 Genius Bus Controller
- GE IC697CHS790 Rack Chassis
- GE IC697PWR711 Power Supply Module
These modules enable scalable distributed automation systems with high communication reliability.
Popular GE Series 90-70 Modules
- IC697CPU780 – High-performance PLC processor
- IC697MDL740 – Digital input module
- IC697MDL750 – Digital output module
- IC697ALG440 – Analog input expander
- IC697CMM741 – Ethernet communication module
These components are widely deployed in industrial automation systems with long operational lifecycles.
