Description
Replacing or stocking the GE Fanuc / Emerson PACSystems RX7i IC698ETM001 Ethernet Interface Module? Read real-world communication protocol specs, port diagnostics, and safety stock strategies.
Version 1: Standard SEO Review Style
In large-scale industrial control architectures, communication bottlenecks or network card failures can immediately sever critical SCADA data streams and freeze remote I/O lines. The GE Fanuc / Emerson PACSystems RX7i IC698ETM001 is a high-performance Ethernet Transmitter Module (ETM) designed to establish robust TCP/IP-based communications. Functioning as a standalone module within the VME64 backplane of an RX7i chassis, this unit features a 200 MHz onboard processor and dual auto-sensing 10/100 Mbps ports to streamline data collection, system programming, and peer-to-peer controller communications.
Technical Specification Snapshot
Before checking a replacement ETM card into active inventory or installing it on an live backplane, verify these hardware limits and communication protocols:
| Parameter | Specification Value |
| Part Number | IC698ETM001 |
| Product Family | PACSystems RX7i (Originally GE Fanuc, now Emerson) |
| Module Type | Ethernet Interface / Communications Module |
| Processor Speed | 200 MHz |
| Power Consumption | 5 VDC input: 1.2 Amps (typical) / 1.5 Amps (maximum) |
| Physical Interface | Two RJ-45 shielded female ports (10BASE-T/100BASE-TX) |
| Serial Port | RS-232 Station Manager Port (9-pin D-connector) |
| Protocol Support | SRTP (Client/Server), Modbus/TCP (Client/Server), EGD (Class 2) |
| Network Features | Auto-negotiation, auto-crossover (MDI/MDI-X), redundant IP addressing |
| Slot Limitation | Up to three IC698ETM001 modules can be installed in a single RX7i CPU rack |
Operational Reality & Sparing Strategy
Using a standard ABC inventory analysis, the IC698ETM001 is classified as a Class A critical asset. Although it does not directly trigger digital outputs, it functions as the central nervous system for your SCADA, HMI, and distributed Ethernet Global Data (EGD) networks. A hardware failure here can isolate the controller completely, resulting in an immediate operational blind spot.
Because the RX7i line is a legacy series, lead times for refurbished or new-surplus cards can vary extensively. Sparing strategies should avoid relying on “just-in-time” delivery. If your facility runs multiple critical RX7i control nodes, keeping at least one pre-tested, on-shelf spare is highly recommended to protect your facility from extended downtime.
Not Recommended For:
Do not force this card into low-power PACSystems RX3i or Series 90-30 chassis. The physical dimensions and connector layout are designed exclusively for the VME64-compatible RX7i backplane structure.
