Description

The GE HE700GEN100C is a high-performance Ethernet communication interface module developed by GE Intelligent Platforms (formerly GE Fanuc) for integration into the Series 90-70 programmable logic controller (PLC) system. Designed to bridge legacy Genius I/O networks with modern industrial Ethernet protocols, the GE HE700GEN100C enables seamless data exchange between GE PLCs and supervisory systems such as SCADA, MES, and enterprise IT platforms. This module plugs directly into the Series 90-70 backplane, occupying a single I/O slot while providing a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port for real-time access to ladder logic, I/O status, and diagnostic information.

Positioned as a critical enabler of digital transformation in brownfield facilities, the GE HE700GEN100C supports both Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP protocols out of the box—allowing flexible integration with Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and other third-party systems. Its embedded web server facilitates remote configuration and troubleshooting without requiring proprietary software, significantly reducing maintenance downtime. By converting the deterministic but limited-range Genius bus into routable IP traffic, the GE HE700GEN100C extends the operational life of installed Series 90-70 control systems while unlocking cloud connectivity, predictive maintenance, and IIoT readiness.

GE HE700GEN100C

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Dual-protocol flexibility for heterogeneous environments: The GE HE700GEN100C eliminates vendor lock-in by supporting both Ethernet/IP (for integration with Allen-Bradley ecosystems) and Modbus TCP (the universal industrial protocol). This allows plants with mixed automation brands to consolidate data from GE Series 90-70 controllers into a single historian or HMI—without costly gateway cascades or custom drivers.

Embedded web server for zero-footprint diagnostics: Unlike older serial-only modules, the GE HE700GEN100C features a built-in HTTP server that displays module status, IP configuration, active connections, and error logs through any standard web browser. Engineers can troubleshoot network issues or verify I/O mapping remotely—reducing truck rolls in distributed facilities like water treatment plants or pipeline compressor stations.

Seamless retrofit into existing Series 90-70 systems: Installation requires no rewiring—simply replace a blank filler module or repurpose an unused slot. The GE HE700GEN100C draws power from the backplane and automatically synchronizes with the PLC’s scan cycle, exposing all configured Genius blocks as Ethernet-accessible tags. This makes it ideal for extending the life of mature control systems in power generation, cement kilns, or legacy manufacturing lines facing obsolescence.

Robust industrial design with enterprise-grade security: While designed for simplicity, the GE HE700GEN100C includes configurable IP filtering and password protection for its web interface. Its conformal-coated PCB and wide operating temperature range ensure reliable performance in electrically noisy switchgear rooms or outdoor enclosures—proving that even “legacy” doesn’t mean “vulnerable.”

Application Field

The GE HE700GEN100C is widely deployed in industries operating long-life Series 90-70 control systems where upgrading the entire PLC platform is cost-prohibitive or operationally disruptive. In municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities, it enables remote monitoring of pump stations and clarifier controls via SCADA over cellular or fiber Ethernet—turning isolated Genius I/O racks into connected edge devices. Similarly, in thermal power plants, the GE HE700GEN100C provides secure access to boiler feedwater logic or turbine interlocks for centralized control room operators using Wonderware or iFIX HMIs.

Manufacturing sectors such as glass, steel, and pulp & paper also leverage the GE HE700GEN100C to integrate legacy production lines into modern OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) dashboards. For example, a glass bottle forming line controlled by a Series 90-70 can now stream temperature, pressure, and cycle count data to a cloud-based analytics platform via the GE HE700GEN100C, enabling predictive maintenance on mold lubrication systems. Even in oil & gas midstream operations, this module connects remote terminal units (RTUs) to pipeline control centers using Modbus TCP over satellite links—demonstrating its versatility across communication infrastructures. Ultimately, the GE HE700GEN100C transforms decades-old automation hardware into IIoT-ready assets without compromising reliability.

GE HE700GEN100C

Related Products

• GE HE700GEN100B: Previous revision of the same module; GE HE700GEN100C includes firmware and compatibility enhancements

• GE IC697CPU788 / IC697CPU789: High-end Series 90-70 CPUs often paired with the GE HE700GEN100C for large applications

• GE IC697CMM711: Older Genius-to-Serial communication module—GE HE700GEN100C is the Ethernet successor

• GE IC697BEM731: Genius bus controller module required in the same rack to manage Genius I/O blocks accessed via the GE HE700GEN100C

• GE IC697ACC701: Rack filler/backplane terminator—often replaced by the GE HE700GEN100C during Ethernet upgrades

• GE VersaMax Ethernet Module (NIU001): Equivalent for smaller VersaMax systems—different platform but similar bridging function

• GE Proficy Historian / HMI: Software suite that natively integrates with the GE HE700GEN100C for data visualization and archiving