GE IC695CHS012 12-Slot Universal Backplane

Technical Specifications

• Slot Capacity: 12 slots for I/O, option, and communication modules .

• Backplane Architecture: Supports both high-speed Parallel Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus and a high-speed serial bus .

• Internal Power Consumption:

  • 240 mA at 5 VDC

  • 600 mA at 3.3 VDC .

• External Power Input: Supports an optional external 24 VDC power source terminated at the TB1 terminal block, utilized by some IC693 and IC694 series modules .

• Recommended Wiring: AWG 14-22 individual wires for the terminal block .

• Mounting Orientation: Horizontal mounting on a panel or rack .

• Physical Dimensions: 18.01 x 5.57 x 5.80 inches (457.5 x 141.5 x 147.32 mm) .

• Weight: Approximately 4.00 lbs (1.81 kg) .

• Environmental Compliance for ATEX Zone 2: Installation must be within an IP54 or greater enclosure capable of withstanding 3.5 Joules of impact energy .

Key Functional Features

• Dual-Bus Versatility: The backplane’s integral PCI and serial buses enable a single system to combine the high-speed performance of contemporary RX3i modules with the proven reliability of Series 90-30 I/O. This design protects previous hardware investments while facilitating incremental system upgrades .

• Hot Swapping Support: The backplane allows for powered insertion and removal of compatible modules. This feature reduces operational downtime by enabling maintenance and module replacement without requiring a complete system shutdown .

• Flexible Power Distribution: The terminal block (TB1) provides a connection point for an isolated external 24 VDC power source. This auxiliary power is routed to specific backplane slots to power modules that require it, offering a clean separation from the main backplane power .

• Rugged and Compliant Design: The backplane is designed for industrial environments and must be installed in a protective enclosure with a NEMA/UL Type 1 or IP20 rating as a minimum. It requires a 102 mm (4 inches) clearance on all sides for natural air convection and cooling .

• Module Identification and Compatibility: It is manufactured in several hardware revisions, including -BA, -CA, -DA, -EA, -FA, and -GB. Hardware revision -CA or later is mandatory for compatibility with specific features in newer CPU firmware and PROFINET Scanner modules .

Application Scenarios

• Centralized Control System Architecture: Functions as the main chassis in a standard RX3i rack, housing the CPU, network interfaces, and a mix of local I/O to manage an entire machine, process, or material handling system .

• Harsh Industrial Environments: Installed within NEMA/UL Type 1 or IP20 enclosures in sectors such as power generation, chemical processing, and oil and gas. When mounted in an IP54 enclosure with appropriate impact resistance, it is certified for ATEX Zone 2 hazardous locations .

• System Modernization and Legacy I/O Retention: Ideal for upgrading legacy GE Series 90-30 control systems. The dual-bus capability allows the existing wiring and serial I/O modules to connect to a new, high-speed RX3i CPU on the same backplane, simplifying a phased modernization approach .

• High-Availability and Continuous Process Systems: Deployed in critical processes, such as water treatment facilities or continuous manufacturing lines, where the hot-swap feature is necessary to replace modules and perform diagnostics while the process remains online with minimal interruption .