Description

The GE IC687BEM731-AB is a high-performance Bus Expansion Module for GE Fanuc’s Series 90-30 PLC systems, designed to extend I/O capacity across distributed manufacturing environments. This rugged fiber-optic communication module enables seamless integration of remote expansion racks up to 2 km from the primary CPU, eliminating electrical noise interference in electrically harsh areas like steel mills or power generation facilities. The GE IC687BEM731-AB utilizes 200μm hard-clad silica (HCS) fiber technology to maintain 10 Mbps data transmission integrity while providing galvanic isolation between control cabinets.

Engineered for mission-critical applications, this module supports hot-swapping and automatic reconfiguration upon rack reconnection – a vital feature for continuous processes requiring zero downtime maintenance. The GE IC687BEM731-AB features dual-redundant power inputs and real-time diagnostics through LED status indicators, allowing rapid fault localization. Its -40°C to +70°C operating range and 5g vibration tolerance make it ideal for mobile equipment and offshore installations. As the backbone of distributed 90-30 systems, the GE IC687BEM731-AB delivers deterministic data exchange between CPU and remote I/O racks with less than 5ms latency.

GE IC687BEM731-AB

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	IC687BEM731-AB
Manufacturer	GE Industrial Automation
Product Type	PLC Bus Expansion Module
Communication Medium	200μm HCS Fiber Optic
Max Distance	2000 m (6562 ft)
Data Transfer Rate	10 Mbps
Latency	< 5 ms
Power Requirements	5V DC (via backplane)
Power Consumption	850 mA max
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +70°C
Vibration Resistance	5g @ 10-500 Hz
Shock Resistance	30g (11ms duration)
Compatibility	Series 90-30 PLC Racks
Connector Type	ST-Type Fiber Optic
Isolation Voltage	1500 VAC
Certifications	cULus, CE, RoHS

Main Features and Advantages

Noise-immune connectivity: The GE IC687BEM731-AB eliminates ground loop issues and EMI susceptibility through optical isolation, maintaining signal integrity in welding facilities or variable frequency drive environments. Its automatic baud rate synchronization requires no manual configuration when adding expansion racks.

Robust diagnostics: Dual-color LEDs provide instant visual status for power, link integrity, and data activity. The module implements cyclic redundancy checking (CRC-16) with automatic retransmission of corrupted packets, ensuring data accuracy for safety-critical I/O. The GE IC687BEM731-AB supports rack-level fault reporting through the CPU’s diagnostic table.

High availability design: Hot-swappable capability allows replacement without system shutdown. Dual power inputs from the backplane provide redundancy, while the module’s conformal-coated PCB resists humidity and chemical exposure. The GE IC687BEM731-AB maintains communication through temporary fiber bends up to 30mm radius – critical in mobile machinery applications.

Application Field

The GE IC687BEM731-AB enables distributed control in electrically hostile environments. In automotive manufacturing, it extends robotic cell I/O across paint shops where explosive atmospheres prohibit copper cabling. Power plants utilize the module to connect turbine hall vibration monitoring racks to control rooms 1.5km away, avoiding interference from 10kV switchgear.

For water treatment facilities, the GE IC687BEM731-AB links remote pump station PLCs across campuses using existing fiber infrastructure. Mining operations deploy it in conveyor control systems where constant vibration would degrade copper connections. In food processing, the module’s wide temperature range supports freezer-to-cook line control continuity, while its IP20-rated design functions in high-moisture washdown areas when installed in sealed enclosures.

GE IC687BEM731-AB

Related Products

IC693CPU374: Series 90-30 CPU with embedded fiber port

IC693BEM331: Copper bus extension module (300m max)

IC697BEM731: Enhanced version for Series 90-70 systems

IC693PWR330: Redundant power supply for expansion racks

DS200FECAG1A: Fiber optic transceiver kit with ST connectors

IC693ALG392: Analog input module for remote sensing

IC693ACC300: Fiber optic cleaning/maintenance kit

IC690ACC901: Mounting kit for vertical installation

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Verify fiber optic cable type (200μm HCS core/230μm cladding). Clean ST connectors with IC690ACC901 kit before installation. Ensure expansion rack address doesn’t conflict with existing stations. For the GE IC687BEM731-AB, install in leftmost slot of expansion rack with secure latching.

Maintenance recommendations: Quarterly inspect fiber bend radius (>50mm) and connector strain relief. Biannually clean optical ports with dry cassette cleaner. Monitor CPU diagnostic register %AI000 for packet error counts – replace the GE IC687BEM731-AB if errors exceed 0.1% of total packets. Always store spare modules in anti-static bags with desiccant.