Description

The GE IC698CHS009A is a high-density VME-based chassis engineered for GE’s RX7i PACSystem, delivering robust backplane infrastructure for mission-critical automation applications. This 9-slot industrial-grade enclosure supports triple modular redundant (TMR) configurations and hot-swappable modules, ensuring continuous operation in power generation, water treatment, and oil & gas facilities. The GE IC698CHS009A features precision-machined aluminum construction with integrated cooling channels, maintaining optimal operating temperatures for high-performance CPU and I/O modules even in ambient temperatures up to +60°C. Its patented vibration-dampening mounting system withstands 5g RMS vibration, making it ideal for mobile or seismic-prone installations.

Designed for maximum configurability, this chassis supports mixed module types – including Ethernet controllers, Genius bus interfaces, and analog I/O – through its 320MB/s VME64 backplane. The GE IC698CHS009A incorporates intelligent power management with dual redundant power supply slots (PPSA/B), automatically balancing loads and providing brown-out protection. For cybersecurity, the chassis includes physical key-lock mechanisms to prevent unauthorized module removal. As the foundation of GE’s fault-tolerant PACSystems, the GE IC698CHS009A delivers the scalability and reliability required for safety instrumented systems up to SIL 3.

GE IC698CHS009A

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	IC698CHS009A
Manufacturer	GE Intelligent Platforms
Product Type	VME Industrial Chassis
Slots	9 (1 CPU + 8 expansion)
Backplane Speed	320 MB/s (VME64 standard)
Power Supply Slots	2 (redundant)
Max Power Capacity	600W per supply
Cooling Method	Forced air (dual fans)
Operating Temperature	0°C to +60°C
Storage Temperature	-40°C to +85°C
Relative Humidity	5-95% non-condensing
Dimensions (HxWxD)	400 x 483 x 318 mm
Weight	15 kg (empty)
Material	Aluminum alloy
Mounting	19″ rack or panel
Certifications	UL/cUL 508, CE, RoHS

Main Features and Advantages

High availability architecture: The GE IC698CHS009A supports hot-swap module replacement without system shutdown through its buffered backplane design. Dual cooling fans operate in N+1 redundancy with automatic speed adjustment based on thermal sensors. The chassis’ gold-plated VME connectors ensure 10,000+ insertion cycles, maintaining signal integrity in corrosive atmospheres.

Intelligent power management: Integrated power distribution modules provide per-slot current monitoring and circuit protection. The GE IC698CHS009A features sequenced power-up logic to prevent inrush current surges, while its dual PPS slots accept 120/240VAC or 125VDC inputs. Real-time power sharing between supplies extends module life by preventing single-supply overload.

Enhanced diagnostics: Front-panel LEDs display power status, fan health, and slot activity. The GE IC698CHS009A integrates temperature sensors that trigger alerts at +55°C ambient. Backplane test points enable voltage verification during maintenance. Conformal coating on internal electronics provides protection against humidity and dust contamination.

Application Field

The GE IC698CHS009A serves as the backbone for critical infrastructure control systems. In combined-cycle power plants, it houses turbine control logic and generator protection relays, withstanding switchgear vibrations. Water treatment facilities deploy this chassis for SCADA master stations, where its 9-slot capacity consolidates communications (Ethernet, Modbus) and process control in flood-resistant cabinets.

For oil pipelines, the GE IC698CHS009A operates in unmanned pump stations, supporting leak detection algorithms through analog input modules and redundant controllers. Pharmaceutical manufacturers utilize its locked-slot security for FDA-compliant batch processing systems. In transportation tunnels, the chassis’ wide temperature tolerance enables ventilation control during fire emergencies. Discrete manufacturers leverage the GE IC698CHS009A for automotive assembly line controllers, where its VME backplane synchronizes robotic cells with <1ms jitter.

GE IC698CHS009A

Related Products

IC698CHS017: 17-slot chassis for large installations

IC698PSA350: 350W AC/DC power supply

IC698CPE040: RX7i quad-core CPU module

IC698CRE030: VME64 bus controller

IC698CHS109: Conformal-coated version for harsh environments

IC698ACC719: Chassis mounting kit

IC690ACC901: Fan replacement kit

IC698CMX001: Backplane extender module

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Verify cabinet clearance (>150mm above chassis for airflow). Ground chassis to earth ground with 10AWG cable before module insertion. For the GE IC698CHS009A, torque mounting bolts to 2.3 N·m using stainless steel hardware in corrosive environments. Install blanking plates in unused slots to maintain airflow.

Maintenance recommendations: Quarterly clean air filters with compressed air (<30psi). Annually verify backplane voltages (+5V ±2%, +12V ±5%) at test points. Replace cooling fans when tachometer signals deviate >15% from baseline. Every 5 years, reseat all modules to prevent contact oxidation. Monitor power supply load balancing – replace if imbalance exceeds 20%.