Description
1. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot
- Model & Brand: GE Fanuc / Emerson (PACSystems RX3i Series) — IC695ETM001-ER (Firmware Revision ER)
- Physical Dimensions: Standard PACSystems RX3i single-slot backplane module profile (approx. 125 mm x 72 mm x 138 mm).
- Estimated Shipping Weight: 0.51 kg (1.13 lbs) packed in high-density anti-static foam containment.
- What’s in the Box: IC695ETM001-ER communication module unit, dual RJ-45 port dust caps, Station Manager serial port pinout tag, and compliance data sheet insert (note: backplane baseplates and patch cables are ordered separately).
2. Product Introduction
Deterministic data transmission across distributed control architectures requires robust network interface hardware capable of handling heavy communication loads without processor bottlenecking. Operating within the GE PACSystems RX3i rack platform, this Ethernet interface module provides dual-port connectivity for high-speed plant networks, supporting Ethernet Global Data (EGD), Modbus TCP, and SRTP protocols simultaneously (—which is vital for reliable supervisory control and data acquisition integration).
Engineered with an embedded 200 MHz communications processor and an integrated dual-port switch, the module enables seamless device daisy-chaining without requiring external switches. Plant network engineers depend on this hardware revision to maintain stable, isolated data pathways across complex industrial automation setups.
3. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Product Series | GE PACSystems RX3i Control System |
| Module Type | Ethernet Network Interface Module (ETM) |
| Processor Speed | 200 MHz dedicated communications processor |
| Ethernet Ports | Two (2) 10/100 Mbps auto-sensing RJ-45 shielded ports (single IP architecture) |
| Supported Protocols | EGD, Modbus TCP (Server/Client), SRTP, SNTP time synchronization |
| Serial Port | One (1) RS-232 9-pin D-sub (Station Manager diagnostic port) |
| Backplane Power | Standard RX3i bus power draw (approx. 1.5 W nominal) |
| Operating Temperature | 0^\circC to +60^\circC (32^\circF to 140^\circF) |
| Storage Temperature | -40^\circC to +85^\circC (-40^\circF to +185^\circF) |
4. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications
Regulatory audits demand verified environmental and electrical safety approvals before approving network communication modules for continuous plant operation.
- Certifications: CE Mark, cULus Listed industrial control equipment, ATEX/IECEx hazardous location options, and RoHS compliance directives.
- Safety Relevance: The cULus and hazardous location ratings ensure that internal electronic switching cannot generate thermal arcs capable of igniting volatile gas atmospheres present in industrial production skids.
- Audit Note: Verify specific firmware revision logs against local statutory cybersecurity and plant safety standards prior to final system commissioning.
5. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide
Spare communication cards sitting in warehouse stockrooms face environmental exposure and connector tarnish over extended storage durations (—requiring strict inventory controls to prevent premature failure). Protect your capital investment by adhering to these maintenance procedures:
- Maintain indoor warehouse climates where ambient storage temperatures stay between -20^\circC and +55^\circC while keeping relative humidity strictly below 60% to prevent micro-corrosion on the backplane contact fingers.
- Keep the module sealed inside its original factory anti-static moisture-barrier bag with optical and electrical port covers firmly installed until the exact maintenance outage window.
- Inspect the dual RJ-45 receptacles and serial D-sub port annually for dust accumulation, brushing surfaces gently with clean, dry compressed air if necessary.
6. Physical Installation Prerequisites
Proper mechanical slot alignment and network cabling layout guarantee stable high-speed data transmission without packet loss.
- Clearance Space: Leave at least 50 mm of unobstructed vertical clearance above and below the card cage to allow proper cable bending radiuses and airflow.
- Grounding Requirements: Secure the RX3i rack backplate directly to the grounded panel chassis using low-impedance metal hardware to suppress electromagnetic interference on Ethernet shields.
- Hot-Swap Support: The module supports live insertion and removal on powered RX3i racks equipped with appropriate CPU firmware versions (v2.51 or later).
7. Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)
Q: What Harmonized System (HS) Tariff Code applies to this GE Ethernet module for international shipments?
A: Industrial network routing and interface modules typically classify under HS code 8517.62.0050 (Machines for reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data). Always verify final classifications with your licensed broker.
Q: What does the “-ER” suffix indicate regarding firmware and hardware status?
A: The suffix denotes a specific factory firmware and hardware revision level. Ensure your project configuration file matches or exceeds this revision level within Proficy Machine Edition.
Q: What is the Country of Origin (COO) for trade compliance record-keeping?
A: This hardware is manufactured in the United States, requiring precise country declarations on commercial import paperwork to satisfy regional trade regulations.
Q: Is specialized shock-resistant transit insurance required for global delivery?
A: Yes, because precision surface-mounted microprocessors and embedded network switches are vulnerable to severe drop impacts, full-value freight insurance is strongly recommended.
