GE IC693CMM311 Communications Coprocessor Module

Technical Specifications
Product Type: Communications Coprocessor Module
Compatible System: GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLC
Compatible CPUs: Modular CPUs only — CPU331 and higher (not compatible with embedded CPUs models 311, 313, or 323)
Number of Ports: 2 serial ports
Port 1 Type: RS-232 (fixed)
Port 2 Type: RS-232 or RS-485 (configurable)
Connector Type: 25-pin D-shell female connector
Supported Protocols: CCM, Modbus RTU (slave), SNP
Baud Rates: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200 bps
Power Consumption: 400 mA at 5 VDC (from PLC backplane)
Maximum Modules per System: Up to 4 (CPU 331 and above)
Slot Assignment: Any slot except the CPU slot in the CPU baseplate
LED Indicators: Module OK, Port 1, Port 2
Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% (non-condensing)
Isolation: 1500 V between logic and field circuits
Product Lifecycle Status: Discontinued / Obsolete

Key Features
Dual Serial Port Communication: Two independent serial ports allow simultaneous communication with multiple external devices, such as an HMI on Port 1 and a Modbus sensor on Port 2 .
Multi-Protocol Support: Supports CCM, Modbus RTU slave, and SNP protocols, providing compatibility with legacy systems and modern field devices .
CPU Workload Offloading: Functions as a dedicated coprocessor, handling serial communication tasks independently and freeing the main PLC CPU resources for critical real-time control operations .
Flexible Port Configuration: Port 2 is configurable for RS-232 or RS-485 via DIP switches or configuration software, allowing adaptation to different network topologies and cable distances .
RS-485 Long-Distance Communication: With RS-485 configured on Port 2, the module supports cable lengths up to 1200 meters, suitable for distributed field device connections .
Hot-Swappable Design: Enables module replacement without powering down the entire PLC system, minimizing production downtime during maintenance .
LED Status Diagnostics: Front-panel LEDs for Module OK, Port 1, and Port 2 provide real-time visual indication of communication status and module health for rapid troubleshooting .
Scalable System Architecture: Up to four CMM modules can be installed in a single system with a CPU 331 or higher, offering scalable communication capacity for large applications .

Application Scenarios
HMI and SCADA Connectivity: Interfaces the Series 90-30 PLC with Human-Machine Interfaces and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems for operator monitoring and control .
Modbus Device Integration: Connects to Modbus RTU-compatible field devices such as variable frequency drives, temperature controllers, and remote I/O drops for process data exchange .
Legacy System Communication: Supports the CCM protocol for integration with older GE automation equipment, facilitating phased system upgrades and backward compatibility .
Multi-Vendor Networking: Acts as a communication gateway, enabling data transfer between Series 90-30 controllers and third-party devices using standard serial protocols.
Industrial Automation: Deployed across manufacturing, process control, power generation, and water treatment facilities where serial communication with field instrumentation and supervisory systems is required .
Distributed I/O Connectivity: Connects remote I/O stations and field equipment over RS-485 multi-drop networks, extending monitoring and control over long distances .

Compatibility and Migration Information
The IC693CMM311 is obsolete and has been superseded by the PACSystems RX3i platform. For new projects, equivalent functionality is provided by modules such as the IC695ETM001 Ethernet interface module . This module remains available in the secondary market for maintenance and expansion of existing Series 90-30 installations.