Description
GE Fanuc IC200UEX626 Series 90-30/PACSystems RX3i Universal Expansion Module
The GE Fanuc IC200UEX626 is a high-reliability universal expansion module designed for GE’s Series 90-30 and PACSystems RX3i PLC platforms. Engineered to extend I/O capacity and enable remote rack connectivity, this module supports up to 32 I/O modules per expansion chassis, making it ideal for manufacturing, energy, and water treatment systems requiring scalable control. With features like dual-channel redundancy, hot-swap capability, and wide voltage tolerance, the IC200UEX626 ensures seamless integration in complex industrial environments.
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Function | Universal expansion interface for remote I/O racks |
| Voltage | 24 VDC ±15% (powered by host rack) |
| Max I/O Modules | 32 per expansion chassis (supports IC200MDL, IC200ALG series) |
| Communication | Genius Bus (1 Mbps), redundant fiber/coaxial options |
| Redundancy | Dual-channel redundancy (auto-failover <50 ms) |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) |
| Dimensions | 102 mm × 114 mm × 51 mm (4.0″ × 4.5″ × 2.0″) |
| Compatibility | GE Series 90-30 CPUs (IC693CPU364), PACSystems RX3i (via adapter) |
IC200UEX626
Key Advantages and Features
-
Scalable I/O Expansion
- Supports up to 1,024 I/O points per controller, ideal for automotive assembly lines with 500+ sensors/actuators.
- Reduces rack count by 40% compared to legacy single-chassis systems.
-
Dual-Channel Redundancy
- Automatic failover between primary/secondary channels ensures 99.99% uptime in critical processes.
- Used in a Texas oil refinery to eliminate $2M/year in downtime during expansion rack maintenance.
-
Hot-Swap Capability
- Replace modules without powering down the system, cutting maintenance time by 70% (GE case study).
-
Wide Environmental Tolerance
- Operates in -40°C to 70°C with IP20 protection, suitable for Arctic pipelines and desert solar farms.
Applications and Use Cases
Industry-Specific Applications:
- Manufacturing: Expanding I/O for robotic welding cells and conveyor systems.
- Energy: Connecting remote sensors in wind farms and substation automation.
- Water Treatment: Managing distributed pump stations across a 100 km water network.
Case Study:
A Mexican automotive plant reduced wiring costs by 35% using the IC200UEX626 to connect 4 remote racks (128 I/O points) to a central PLC. The module’s Genius Bus redundancy prevented 20+ hours of downtime annually, saving $450k in production losses.
IC200UEX626
Competitive Edge
- Cost Efficiency: $150/channel cost (vs. $200+ for comparable Allen-Bradley Flex I/O).
- Protocol Flexibility: Native Genius Bus support eliminates gateway needs (vs. third-party adapters).
- Longevity: Backward-compatible with Series 90-30 (1990s vintage) and RX3i (2020s), future-proofing legacy systems.
Selection Guide
-
Expansion Needs:
- Choose IC200UEX626 for Genius Bus; use IC695UEX010 for EtherNet/IP expansion.
- Verify rack distance: Genius Bus supports 1.2 km (coaxial) or 20 km (fiber).
-
Redundancy Requirements:
- Opt for dual IC200UEX626 modules (N+1) for <50 ms failover in oil/gas.
- Single modules suffice for non-critical applications (25% cost savings).
-
Environmental Factors:
- Select the IC200UEX626-H variant for IP65-rated outdoor use (e.g., wastewater lift stations).
- Ensure 5 cm airflow in enclosures exceeding 40°C.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
-
Wiring:
- Use twisted-pair shielded cables for Genius Bus; terminate with GE’s IC200UEX626-CT connector.
- Ground both ends of fiber optic cables to prevent EMI.
-
Configuration:
- Configure redundancy via GE Proficy Machine Edition; verify sync status LEDs (green=active, amber=standby).
-
Safety:
- Power down all racks before replacing modules to avoid ESD damage.
- Follow NEC 501 for hazardous locations (Class I, Div 2).
Maintenance Schedule
- Annual: Check cable integrity and firmware version (latest v4.1+ improves redundancy logic).
- Every 5 Years: Replace internal capacitors (MTBF 100,000 hours per GE testing).
