GE IC694BEM331
GE IC694BEM331 - Image 2

GE IC694BEM331

  • Product Introduction: This is a battery-backed memory module for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 and VersaMax PLC platforms. It provides non-volatile memory storage for the PLC program, data tables, and configuration parameters. The “331” suffix indicates a specific memory capacity variant (typically 256KB or 512KB). The built-in lithium battery ensures that all program data and retentive data variables are preserved during power outages or PLC replacement. This module is essential for applications where losing the PLC program or recipe data would cause significant downtime or safety issues, such as batch processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and food production.
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Category: SKU: GE IC694BEM331

Description

GE IC694BEM331

  • Technical Specifications:
    • Memory Type: CMOS SRAM with battery backup
    • Memory Capacity: 256KB to 1MB (depending on variant, “331” typically = 512KB)
    • Battery Type: 3.6V lithium (CR1/2AA size, non-replaceable in some versions)
    • Battery Life: 5 years minimum (typical), 10 years at 25°C
    • Data Retention: 10 years minimum with battery
    • Access Time: <100ns
    • Write Cycles: Unlimited (SRAM)
    • Isolation: 500V RMS to backplane
    • Power Consumption: ~0.5W (backplane powered) + battery self-discharge
    • Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
    • Dimensions: IC694 standard form factor
  • Functional Features:
    • Non-Volatile Storage: Program and retentive data survive power loss
    • Battery Backed: Automatic switchover to battery when AC power fails
    • Low Battery Indicator: Front-panel LED warns when battery is nearing end of life
    • Password Protection: Optional software lock to prevent unauthorized program upload/download
    • Hot-Swap Capable: Can be replaced without losing data (if battery is good)
    • Compatible with: 90-70 CPUs and VersaMax CPUs
  • Application Scenarios:
    • Pharmaceutical batch processing (recipes must not be lost)
    • Food and beverage production (formula data retention)
    • Water treatment (control strategies must survive power outage)
    • Any application requiring retentive data tables or recipe storage
    • Systems with infrequent power cycling
  • Performance Parameters:
    • Memory Speed: 100ns access time
    • Battery Voltage: 3.6V nominal, 2.0V end-of-life
    • Data Retention at End of Life: 1 year minimum
    • Write Endurance: Unlimited (SRAM has no write cycle limit)
    • Bus Speed: Genius Bus / VersaMax backplane
  • Material Composition:
    • Housing: UL94 V-0 ABS
    • PCB: 4-layer FR-4 with conformal coating
    • Memory IC: CMOS SRAM (e.g., 32KB x 8 or 64KB x 8 chips)
    • Battery: Lithium thionyl chloride (LiSOCl2), hermetically sealed
    • Connectors: Gold-plated backplane edge connector
  • Structural Features:
    • Standard IC694 module size
    • 2 LEDs: Power (green), Low Battery (amber/red)
    • Battery compartment accessible from front or side (depending on version)
    • DIN-rail mountable
  • Working Principle:
    • The module contains chips that store the PLC program and retentive data. A lithium battery is permanently connected to the SRAM power pins. When AC power is present, the backplane powers the SRAM and charges the battery. When AC power fails, the battery automatically takes over, maintaining power to the SRAM within microseconds. The low-battery detector monitors battery voltage and lights the LED when voltage drops below 2.8V. The CPU reads and writes data to this module via the backplane bus as if it were regular memory.
  • Installation Requirements:
    • Install in IC694 or IC695 chassis near the CPU
    • Ensure the CPU is configured to use this memory module for program storage
    • Do not remove the module while the PLC is running unless battery is confirmed good
    • Record the battery installation date — replace the entire module when battery expires
  • Usage Precautions:
    • Replace the entire module when the Low Battery LED lights — do not attempt to replace just the battery (it is often not user-replaceable)
    • Do not expose to temperatures above 60°C — high heat kills lithium batteries
    • If the module is removed with a dead battery, all data is lost — upload the program to a PC first
    • The module has a finite life — plan for replacement every 5-7 years
    • Do not short the battery terminals

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