Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GE Fanuc |
| Model | IC698CPE020-CC |
| Product Type | CPU / Central Processing Unit Module |
| Series | PACSystems RX7i |
| Processor Speed | 700 MHz Pentium III floating point processor |
| User Logic Memory | 10 MB RAM |
| Non-Volatile Memory | 10 MB Flash memory |
| Programming Languages | Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram, C |
| Backplane Interface | VME64 |
| Ethernet Ports | Dual 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports |
| Serial Interfaces | RS-232 / RS-485 |
| Supported Protocols | SRTP, Modbus RTU, SNP, Ethernet communication services |
| Program Blocks | Up to 512 blocks |
| Floating Point Math | Supported |
| Battery Backup | Supported for user data and clock |
| Power Requirement | +5 VDC approximately 4 A |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C |
| Mounting | RX7i VME rack slot |
| Application | PLC control, process automation, distributed I/O systems |
Product Introduction
GE IC698CPE020-CC Overview
The GE IC698CPE020-CC is a high-performance CPU module from the PACSystems RX7i controller family, designed for industrial applications requiring reliable processing, flexible communication, and compatibility with established VME-based automation architectures. It serves as the main execution unit of an RX7i control system, running application programs, coordinating I/O operations, and managing communication between field devices and supervisory systems.
The GE IC698CPE020-CC uses a 700 MHz Pentium III-class processor with floating-point calculation capability, providing the processing capacity required for complex sequence control, mathematical operations, motion-related calculations, and process applications. The CPU supports up to 10 MB of battery-backed user memory together with 10 MB of non-volatile flash storage for program and configuration retention.
The GE IC698CPE020-CC integrates Ethernet and serial communication functions directly into the CPU module, reducing the need for additional communication boards in many RX7i installations. Its dual Ethernet ports support industrial networking functions, while serial interfaces provide compatibility with existing equipment using RS-232 and RS-485 connections.
The GE Fanuc IC698CPE020-CC is commonly installed in production facilities where RX7i systems remain in service due to validated application software, extensive field wiring, and the high cost of replacing complete control platforms. Typical installations include manufacturing lines, power-related automation systems, water treatment facilities, and continuous process control environments.
When replacing an , engineers should verify firmware revision, CPU compatibility, application program backup, rack configuration, communication settings, and installed option modules. The CPU hardware alone does not define the complete control system; successful replacement depends on restoring the original project configuration and network parameters.

IC698CPE020-CC
Application Scenarios & Field Considerations
Engineering Pain Point
A legacy RX7i system experiences CPU faults, communication interruptions, unexpected resets, or difficulty maintaining application execution. The processor module may be suspected, but faults can also originate from power supplies, backplane connections, firmware mismatch, or corrupted application memory.
Recommended troubleshooting steps:
- Review CPU diagnostic logs
- Check fault tables
- Verify rack power stability
- Confirm Ethernet communication status
- Backup application logic before replacement
- Verify firmware compatibility
The performs the control processing function, but system reliability depends on the complete RX7i architecture.
Typical Applications
Process Automation
Used for:
- Continuous production control
- Sequence management
- PID process regulation
- Distributed I/O management
Power and Utility Systems
Applied for:
- Auxiliary control systems
- Plant monitoring
- Equipment automation
Manufacturing Equipment
Used for:
- Production line control
- Machine sequencing
- Material handling systems
Water and Infrastructure Systems
Applied for:
- Pump control
- Remote I/O management
- Supervisory control integration
Technical Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Verify CPU Revision Compatibility
Before replacement, confirm:
- Hardware revision
- Firmware version
- Programming software compatibility
- Existing application requirements
Different RX7i CPU revisions may require different firmware support.
2. Backup Application Data
Record:
- PLC program
- Hardware configuration
- Communication parameters
- Retentive memory settings
A replacement CPU without the correct project data will not restore operation.
3. Check Communication Configuration
Verify:
- Ethernet IP settings
- SRTP connections
- Modbus parameters
- Serial port assignments
Communication faults after replacement are often configuration-related.
4. Inspect Rack and Power Conditions
Check:
- VME backplane condition
- Power supply output
- Cooling fans
- Rack connections
A CPU failure may be a symptom of an underlying rack condition.
Related Products
- GE IC698CPE010
RX7i CPU module with lower processing speed and embedded Ethernet capability. - GE IC698CRE020
RX7i redundancy CPU module for high-availability control applications. - GE IC698CMX016
RX7i communication module used for industrial network integration. - GE IC698PSA350
RX7i power supply module for VME rack systems. - GE PACSystems RX7i Platform
Industrial PLC platform using VME-based rack architecture for long-term automation applications.
