GE IC693APU300H | High Speed Counter Module

This high speed counter module captures rapid pulse trains from encoders and sensors. It serves the Series 90-30 PLC family for precision motion monitoring. The unit counts pulses at rates that standard input modules cannot handle.

Technical specifications

Parameter	Specification
Brand	GE Intelligent Platforms
Model	GE IC693APU300H
Product Family	Series 90-30
Category	High Speed Counter Module (APU)
Number of Channels	4 (four) independent counters
Maximum Count Frequency	50 kHz per channel
Input Voltage	24V DC nominal
Input Current	10 mA per channel
Counter Resolution	16 bits (0 to 65,535)
Counter Modes	Up, down, up/down, quadrature
Gate Inputs	4 (one per channel)
Stored Presets	4 (one per channel)
Outputs	4 transistor outputs (0.5A each)
Power Supply	5V DC from backplane
Current Consumption	300 mA from +5V backplane
Number of Components	1 PCB, 4 counter ICs, 8 LEDs, 1 connector
Dimensions (L x W x H)	Approx. 14 cm x 11 cm x 3.5 cm
Weight	Approx. 0.3 kg
Energy Storage	None (no battery or capacitor)
Operating Temperature	0°C to 60°C

Detailed Technical Analysis

This module accepts high frequency pulses from incremental encoders. It handles up to 50,000 counts per second on each channel. The device supports four independent counter channels for multi-axis applications. You can configure each channel for different counting modes independently.

Now let us examine its operational flexibility. The unit offers up, down, and up/down counting modes. It also features quadrature decoding for position measurement from encoders. Each channel includes a dedicated gate input for external start/stop control. Four transistor outputs trigger when counters reach preset values.

The module contains no energy storage components whatsoever. You will never replace batteries or capacitors on this device. The GE IC693APU300H draws 300 milliamps from the 5V backplane supply. Its 16-bit resolution supports counts from 0 to 65,535.

Installation and Wiring Guidelines

You mount this module into any Series 90-30 rack slot. Use shielded twisted-pair cables for all encoder connections. This practice minimizes electrical noise that could cause counting errors. Each channel requires a dedicated 24V DC power supply.

Connect the A and B quadrature signals to the appropriate terminals. The module automatically decodes direction from the signal sequence. For single-channel counting, connect only the A input. The gate input allows external hardware control of the counting process.

Practical Applications

Engineers use this module for precision speed and position monitoring. For example, you can measure conveyor belt speed with an encoder. The unit also counts parts on a high speed production line. Its outputs can trigger sorting mechanisms at exact count values.

Summary

To conclude, this high speed counter module offers four channels at 50 kHz each. It weighs only 0.3 kilograms and requires no battery maintenance. Choose GE IC693APU300H for reliable high speed counting in Series 90-30 systems.