GE IC695PBM300-BB

Product Overview

The GE Fanuc IC695PBM300-BB is a PROFIBUS Master Module designed for the PACSystems RX3i automation platform. It enables an RX3i CPU to exchange process data with devices on a PROFIBUS-DP network, making it suitable for distributed I/O, drives, instrumentation, and other industrial field devices.

The -BB revision is a specific hardware version of the IC695PBM300 family. It provides a practical communication solution for automation systems that still rely on PROFIBUS-based field networks.

Main Specifications

• Model: IC695PBM300-BB
• Manufacturer: GE Fanuc / GE Intelligent Platforms
• Platform: PACSystems RX3i
• Module type: PROFIBUS-DP Master
• Supported slaves: Up to 125 PROFIBUS-DP slave devices
• Maximum input data: 3,584 bytes
• Maximum output data: 3,584 bytes
• Data per slave: Up to 244 input bytes and 244 output bytes
• Communication rates: 9.6 kbit/s to 12 Mbit/s
• Power consumption: 440 mA at 3.3 VDC
• Operating temperature: 0 to 60°C
• Storage temperature: -40 to 85°C
• Installation: RX3i Universal Backplane

Communication Capabilities

A major advantage of the IC695PBM300-BB is its support for a broad range of PROFIBUS communication functions. It supports standard PROFIBUS-DP data rates as well as Sync and Freeze modes for coordinated device operation. DP-V1 Read, Write, and Alarm messaging is also supported.

The module can therefore serve as the communication bridge between the RX3i controller and a large number of distributed field devices. Diagnostic information, including slave status and network-related counters, can assist engineers during commissioning and troubleshooting.

Hardware and System Integration

The IC695PBM300-BB is designed as a single-slot module for the RX3i system. It connects to the controller through the RX3i backplane while providing the PROFIBUS network interface for field-level communication.

For system compatibility, the documentation specifies an RX3i CPU with firmware version 2.9 or later, together with Machine Edition Logic Developer-PLC version 5.0 SP2 or later for configuration.

Its onboard module and network status LEDs provide convenient visual information during installation and operation.

Industrial Applications

The GE Fanuc IC695PBM300-BB can be used in a variety of industrial automation environments, including:

• Distributed I/O systems
• Motor and drive control
• Factory production lines
• Process automation
• Material handling systems
• Machine control
• Industrial instrumentation
• Legacy PROFIBUS network upgrades

It is particularly valuable when an existing RX3i installation needs to communicate with established PROFIBUS-DP equipment without replacing the entire field network.

Installation and Maintenance

Before installation, confirm that the module revision, RX3i backplane, CPU firmware, and programming software meet the required compatibility conditions. PROFIBUS cabling should be installed according to the network design, including correct shielding, wiring, addressing, and bus termination.

During maintenance, inspect the module connector, PROFIBUS cable, terminal connections, and status indicators. Network diagnostic information can help identify communication problems or unavailable slave devices. For replacement projects, keeping the original configuration and station-address information available can significantly simplify commissioning.

The GE Fanuc IC695PBM300-BB remains a useful communication component for maintaining and extending RX3i-based automation systems that depend on PROFIBUS-DP technology.