GE IC693APU302N

Technical Specifications

• Module Type: Positioning and Motion Control Processor
• Compatible PLC Series: GE Fanuc Series 90-30
• Number of Axes: Up to 4 independent axes
• Output Type: Pulse and direction (PULSE/DIR) or CW/CCW for each axis
• Maximum Output Frequency: 500 kHz per axis
• Positioning Resolution: 32-bit signed integer (range: ±2,147,483,647 pulses)
• Acceleration/Deceleration Profiles: Linear or S-curve; fully programmable
• Control Modes:
  • Absolute and relative positioning
  • Jog forward and reverse at variable speeds
  • Home-to-limit, home-to-reference, and home-to-index
  • Electronic gearing (master-slave synchronization)
  • Cam profile execution
• Encoder Feedback Input: Quadrature inputs (A/B/Z) for position verification
• Maximum Encoder Input Frequency: 500 kHz
• Command Interface: Communicates via Series 90-30 backplane; programmed using Proficy Machine Edition or Logicmaster software
• Memory: Onboard RAM and non-volatile memory for storing motion programs, parameters, and data tables
• Program Retention: Motion programs retained during power loss
• Digital Inputs:
  • 8 optically isolated inputs for limit switches, home sensors, emergency stop, and external triggers
  • Input voltage: 12–24 VDC
  • Input current: 7 mA typical
• Digital Outputs:
  • 8 optically isolated outputs for status signals (e.g., in-position, alarm, ready, axis busy)
  • Output type: Transistor (sourcing)
  • Output current: 50 mA maximum per output
• Isolation: 1500 VAC between logic circuitry and field I/O
• Power Supply: 5 VDC supplied from Series 90-30 backplane
• Backplane Current Draw: 180 mA @ 5 VDC
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
• Humidity Range: 5% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing
• Position Capture Function: Records actual position when triggered by external signal
• Position Comparison Output (PCO): Generates pulse output when a preset position is reached
• Dimensions: 40 mm (W) x 120 mm (H) x 115 mm (D)
• Weight: Approximately 0.4 kg
• Compliance: CE, UL, CSA, RoHS

Functional Features

• Independent Motion Execution: Runs motion programs autonomously, reducing load on the main PLC processor
• High-Speed Performance: 500 kHz pulse output enables fast and precise motor control
• Multi-Axis Coordination: Simultaneous control of up to four axes with synchronized movement capabilities
• Flexible Motion Programming: Supports complex move sequences with variable speed, acceleration, and positioning logic
• Real-Time Diagnostics: LED indicators for power, run/fault status, and axis activity
• Electronic Gearing: Allows one axis to follow another with programmable gear ratio, eliminating mechanical linkages
• Camming Functionality: Enables a slave axis to follow a predefined position profile based on master axis movement
• Homing Routines: Multiple homing methods supported for accurate reference point establishment
• Backlash Compensation: Improves positioning accuracy by automatically compensating for mechanical backlash
• Linear Scaling: Converts engineering units to pulse counts for simplified programming
• Error Detection and Handling: Monitors for overtravel, following error, and communication faults with automatic response

Application Areas

• Packaging Equipment: Controls flying cutoffs, label dispensers, filling heads, and sealing mechanisms
• Material Handling Systems: Manages gantry robots, pick-and-place units, and automated transfer lines
• Printing and Converting Machinery: Regulates web registration, tension control, and roll indexing
• Assembly and Test Automation: Drives precision positioning stages, screw feeders, and insertion tools
• Machine Tools: Controls auxiliary axes such as tool changers, turrets, and part catchers
• Textile and Wire Processing: Implements winding, spooling, and cut-to-length operations with high repeatability
• Inspection and Measurement Systems: Coordinates scanning heads, probe movement, and sample positioning

System Integration

The IC693APU302N installs directly into a Series 90-30 CPU rack and connects to the backplane for power and communication. It is configured and programmed using GE’s Proficy Machine Edition or legacy Logicmaster software. Motion programs are developed offline and downloaded to the module. The main PLC initiates motion tasks via discrete commands or data registers and receives completion and status feedback in real time.

Environmental and Safety Compliance

• Complies with IEC/EN 61131-2 standards for programmable controller equipment
• Meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC/EN 61000-6-2 (industrial immunity) and IEC/EN 61000-6-4 (emissions)
• Designed for reliable operation in industrial environments with protection against electrical noise, surges, and transients

Maintenance and Support

The module is built for long-term reliability with no scheduled maintenance required. Status LEDs and diagnostic registers facilitate rapid troubleshooting. Firmware updates and configuration changes are performed through standard engineering software. Full technical documentation, application guides, and support are available through authorized GE automation distributors and service centers.