GE IC693NIU004 – Ethernet Network Interface Unit (NIU)

The GE IC693NIU004 is an Ethernet Network Interface Unit (NIU) that is part of the Series 90-30 PLC family, previously produced by GE Fanuc Automation and now under Emerson Automation. This module facilitates the creation of remote I/O stations by utilizing Ethernet Global Data (EGD). It supports the management of up to 2048 discrete inputs, 2048 discrete outputs, 1268 analog input words, and 512 analog output words. With its two Ethernet ports, it supports SRTP Server and Ethernet Global Data (EGD) protocols.

Key Features

• Dual Ethernet Ports: Two 10/100 auto-sensing ports for flexible communication, supporting both SRTP Server and EGD.
• High Input/Output Handling: Handles up to 2048 discrete inputs, 2048 discrete outputs, 1268 analog inputs, and 512 analog outputs.
• Built-in Ethernet Switch: Supports linear, star, and ring Ethernet network topologies with a single IP address.
• Interconnection Support: Capable of connecting up to 8 baseplates, including one CPU baseplate and seven remote or expansion baseplates.
• Memory: Includes built-in RAM, Flash storage, and internal coil memory for system use and temporary outputs.
• Real-Time Communication: Supports real-time data exchange and monitoring across Ethernet networks.

Technical Specifications

The GE IC693NIU004 comes with a range of detailed specifications that ensure flexibility and high performance in remote I/O applications.

Advanced Features & Capabilities

The GE IC693NIU004 excels in various aspects to ensure smooth operations in industrial network environments:

• Dual Ethernet Ports: Each port auto-negotiates between 10/100 Mbps for efficient data transmission. The SRTP Server capability ensures secure real-time data transfer.
• High Input/Output Flexibility: This module manages large volumes of discrete and analog signals, ideal for distributed I/O systems. It supports both input and output configurations for a wide range of industrial applications.
• Built-in Ethernet Switch: The GE IC693NIU004 includes an internal Ethernet switch. With a single IP address, it enables easy setup of linear, star, or ring topologies. This simplifies network architecture while reducing wiring complexity.
• Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP): The module supports secure communication using SRTP, ensuring that the system is robust and fault-tolerant during data exchanges.
• Interconnection with Multiple Baseplates: The module supports up to 8 baseplates, which include one CPU baseplate and seven expansion or remote baseplates. This provides flexibility in large-scale applications and remote I/O networks.

Applications

The GE IC693NIU004 is designed for use in numerous industrial applications, especially in remote I/O network setups. Some of the typical applications include:

• Remote I/O Stations: Ideal for distributed I/O applications over Ethernet networks.
• Industrial Automation: Used in control systems for factories, plants, and other industrial environments.
• Monitoring and Control Systems: Supports data exchange and remote monitoring for better control over automated systems.
• Ethernet-Based Control Systems: Best suited for systems that require Ethernet communication and high-speed data transfer.

Conclusion

The GE IC693NIU004 is a powerful and versatile Ethernet Network Interface Unit (NIU) designed for Series 90-30 PLC systems. It provides robust communication features, including support for real-time data transfer via Ethernet Global Data (EGD). With its large number of I/O points, multiple network topology support, and built-in Ethernet switch, it offers a scalable and efficient solution for industrial remote I/O and automation systems.