Description
1. Product Description
The IC697BEM713 is a rugged Profibus-DP Master/Slave Communication Module by GE Fanuc (now part of General Electric), engineered for the Versamax™ I/O platform. Designed for industrial automation, this module enables seamless real-time communication (up to 12 Mbps) between PLCs, HMIs, and field devices in manufacturing, energy, and process control systems. The IC697BEM713 supports dual-port redundancy, hot-swap functionality, and Class 1 Div 2 certification for hazardous environments. With compatibility across GE’s Versamax, PACSystems RX3i, and RX7i platforms, it simplifies integration in complex setups. GE’s IC697BEM713 stands out for its compact design (1.5” width), support for up to 125 slaves per network, and advanced diagnostic capabilities.
2. Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Module Type | Profibus-DP Master/Slave Communication |
| Voltage | 24 V DC (±10%) |
| Current | 110 mA (operating), 180 mA (max startup) |
| Communication | Profibus-DP V1 (IEC 61158), 9.6 kbps–12 Mbps |
| Nodes Supported | Up to 125 slaves (Master); 1 Master (Slave) |
| Redundancy | Dual-port (A/B) for network redundancy |
| Temperature Range | -40–70 °C (operating), -40–85 °C (storage) |
| Mounting | DIN rail (35 mm) |
| Dimensions | 1.5” (W) × 4.5” (H) × 3.2” (D) |
| Certifications | CE, UL 508, Class 1 Div 2 (hazardous locations) |
| LED Indicators | Power, Run, Fault, Bus A/B Activity, Slave Status |
IC697BEM713
3. Advantages and Characteristics
- High-Speed Redundancy: Dual-port architecture ensures 99.99% uptime with automatic failover in redundant networks.
- Hazardous Environment Ready: Class 1 Div 2 certification for safe operation in oil, gas, and chemical plants.
- Hot-Swap Capability: Module replacement without system shutdown (reduces maintenance downtime by 50%).
- Advanced Diagnostics: Real-time fault monitoring and slave status indicators for proactive maintenance.
- Space-Saving Design: 1.5” width fits compact control panels (20% smaller than legacy modules).
4. Application Areas and Cases
Industries: Oil/gas (pipelines), chemical processing, power generation, and automotive manufacturing.
Case Study: A Canadian chemical plant deployed the IC697BEM713 in its reactor control system. The module’s dual-port redundancy and Class 1 Div 2 certification eliminated network failures in explosive environments, reducing unplanned downtime by 75% (150+ field devices monitored in real time).
Case Study: A Canadian chemical plant deployed the IC697BEM713 in its reactor control system. The module’s dual-port redundancy and Class 1 Div 2 certification eliminated network failures in explosive environments, reducing unplanned downtime by 75% (150+ field devices monitored in real time).
5. Competitor Comparison
Compared to similar Profibus modules:
- Extended Temperature Range: Operates at -40–70 °C (vs. -25–60 °C for many alternatives).
- Integrated Redundancy: Built-in dual-port redundancy (no external modules required).
- Faster Data Rates: 12 Mbps (vs. 1–2 Mbps for legacy models).
- Enhanced Diagnostics: Slave status indicators (unique among entry-level Profibus modules).
IC697BEM713
6. Selection Recommendations
- Compatibility: Verify GE Versamax, RX3i, or RX7i system compatibility; ensure Profibus-DP V1 support.
- Environment: Prioritize Class 1 Div 2 certification for hazardous locations (e.g., petrochemical plants).
- Scalability: Choose the IC697BEM713 for networks with 50–125 slaves (supports full Profibus-DP addressing).
- Cost Efficiency: Balance upfront cost with long-term savings (hot-swap reduces maintenance labor costs).
7. Precautions
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Installation: Secure DIN rail mounting; use AWG 22–16 cables for Profibus connections.
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Power Supply: Use a filtered 24 V DC source (±10%) to prevent voltage instability.
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Network Setup: Terminate Profibus networks properly; limit cable length to 1,200 meters (standard) or 200 meters (at 12 Mbps).
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Safety: Disconnect power before hot-swapping; follow hazardous location wiring standards (e.g., conduit seals for Class 1 Div 2).
