GE Fanuc IC697PCM711 Programmable Coprocessor Module
IC697PCM711 is a single-slot programmable coprocessor module for GE Series 90-70 PLC racks, equipped with a 12MHz 80C186 microprocessor to offload heavy computing and communication tasks from the main PLC CPU. It communicates with the rack CPU via backplane bus, runs independent MegaBasic programs, and delivers two universal serial ports supporting RS-232/422/485. The built-in battery-backed CMOS memory retains programs and data for up to six months without power supply.

This discontinued auxiliary processing module is a core maintenance spare for legacy power, petrochemical and pulp & paper control systems. It adopts software soft configuration without DIP switches or jumpers, features three front-panel diagnostic LEDs and a manual reset button, and supports hot-swap installation on IC697CHS790 racks. Multiple PCM711 modules can be deployed in one rack to expand multi-channel serial communication and high-speed data processing capacity.
Main Specifications
- Brand: GE Fanuc (Emerson Automation); Model: IC697PCM711; System: Series 90-70 PLC Coprocessor
- Core Hardware: 12MHz 80C186 processor; 96KB onboard battery-backed memory, expandable to 512KB
- Serial Interfaces: 2×RS232/RS422/RS485 ports, max baud rate 19200bps, dual-port simultaneous communication
- Backplane Power: 1.0A @ 5VDC, occupies one standard rack slot
- Programming Environment: MegaBasic language; configured via DOS/Windows PC software (IC640/IC647 programmer)
- Diagnostic Design: 3 status LEDs, hardware reset button, built-in real-time calendar clock synchronized with PLC CPU
- Environmental Parameters: Operating 0℃ ~ +60℃, storage -40℃ ~ +85℃, 5%–95% RH non-condensing, IP20 cabinet grade
- Compatibility: Matches IC697CHS790 rack, all Series 90-70 CPU, I/O and bus expansion modules
- Certifications: UL, CE industrial EMC certification; conformal coated PCB for anti-corrosion
Core Functions
- Offload complex floating-point calculations, real-time data filtering and batch formula computation tasks to reduce main CPU scan cycle load.
- Provide dual independent serial communication channels to connect HMI, remote instruments, third-party controllers and SCADA systems via Modbus and CCM2 protocols.
- Dual-task architecture enables simultaneous program execution and serial data transmission without mutual performance interference.
- Battery-backed memory stores historical process data, batch parameters and communication configurations to avoid data loss during power outages.
- Direct high-speed access to PLC backplane data tables, no extra auxiliary programs required on the main CPU side for data interaction.
- Hot-swappable single-slot structure allows independent module replacement without shutting down the entire PLC rack, cutting production maintenance downtime.
Application Scenarios
