Description
GE IC693PCM311
- Technical Specifications:
- Memory Type: PCMCIA Type II flash memory card
- Supported Card Sizes: 1MB to 128MB
- Interface: PCMCIA 16-bit parallel bus
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 2MB/s (read), 1MB/s (write)
- Power Source: Backplane-powered (5VDC)
- Isolation: 500V RMS optical isolation from backplane
- Power Consumption: ~1W
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
- Dimensions: Half-width IC693 module
- Functional Features:
- Supports program upload/download via card
- Compatible with all 90-30 CPUs (IC693CPU360, 363, 372)
- LED indicators: Power (green), Access (amber — blinks during read/write)
- Card is hot-insertable (with PLC in RUN mode — program must be in STOP for write)
- Supports password protection for program security
- Compatible with Proficy Machine Edition software
- Application Scenarios:
- Program distribution across multiple PLCs (copy program from one to many)
- Recipe management in batch processing (store recipes on card, load as needed)
- Disaster recovery — backup program to card, store off-site
- Field firmware updates via card
- Data logging — export data tables to card for analysis
- Performance Parameters:
- Read Speed: Up to 2MB/s
- Write Speed: Up to 1MB/s
- Card Life: >100,000 write cycles (flash memory)
- Data Retention: 10 years (flash memory, no battery needed)
- Bus: Genius Bus
- MTBF: >150,000 hours
- Material Composition:
- Housing: UL94 V-0 ABS
- PCB: 4-layer FR-4, conformal coated
- Connector: PCMCIA Type II slot with eject mechanism
- Isolation: Opto-isolator for data bus
- LEDs: High-brightness red/green LEDs
- Structural Features:
- Half-width IC693 module
- Front panel: card slot + 2 LEDs + eject button
- Backplane edge connector
- DIN-rail or chassis mount
- Working Principle:
- The CPU communicates with the PCMCIA module via the Genius Bus. When a read or write command is issued, the module activates the interface and transfers data to/from the flash card. The opto-isolator separates the card bus from the backplane bus for safety. The Access LED blinks during data transfer. The card retains data without power — no battery needed.
- Installation Requirements:
- Install in any IC693 slot (does not need to be adjacent to CPU)
- Insert PCMCIA card before powering up (or use hot-insert with caution)
- Format card using PME software before first use
- Ensure card is Type II (not Type I or III)
- Use industrial-grade flash card (not consumer-grade — consumer cards have shorter life)
- Usage Precautions:
- Use industrial-grade PCMCIA cards only — consumer cards fail prematurely in industrial environments
- Do not remove card during write operation — corrupts data
- Format card in the PLC before use — do not use pre-formatted cards from PC
- Protect card from static discharge — use anti-static wrist strap when handling
- Store cards in protective case when not in use
- Do not exceed 128MB card size — not supported
- For program write, PLC must be in STOP mode (RUN mode allows read only)





