Description

The GE IC695CRU320CA-EL is a 10-slot universal backplane assembly designed for Emerson’s RX3i PACSystem, serving as the physical and electrical foundation for the entire control system. This robust chassis provides the structural framework that houses and interconnects critical components including the power supply, CPU module, and various I/O and communication modules. The “CA” designation indicates this backplane features a conductive aluminum cooling plate, while the “-EL” suffix signifies extended lifecycle support, making this particular model ideal for long-term industrial deployments where component availability is crucial. The IC695CRU320CA-EL enables seamless data exchange between modules through its high-speed PCI-based bus, ensuring deterministic performance and reliable operation in demanding automation environments.

Engineered for maximum compatibility, this backplane supports the entire range of RX3i modules while maintaining backward compatibility with select 90-30 series I/O modules, providing exceptional flexibility for system expansion and modernization projects. The integrated cooling plate efficiently dissipates heat generated by installed modules, enhancing system reliability and longevity without requiring forced air cooling in most applications. The GE IC695CRU320CA-EL features robust construction with secure locking mechanisms for module retention and comprehensive shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference. As the backbone of the RX3i system, this backplane ensures optimal signal integrity and power distribution across all connected modules, making it an essential component for building reliable, high-performance industrial control systems that can withstand rigorous operating conditions.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

The GE IC695CRU320CA-EL offers several distinct advantages that make it an ideal choice for industrial control applications. Its most significant feature is the integrated conductive aluminum cooling plate, which provides passive thermal management without moving parts, significantly enhancing system reliability by effectively dissipating heat from high-density modules. This design eliminates the need for fans or other active cooling components that could fail and cause system overheating. The robust PCI-based backplane architecture ensures high-speed data transfer between modules with minimal latency, critical for maintaining deterministic system performance in real-time control applications.

The universal design of the IC695CRU320CA-EL provides exceptional investment protection by supporting both new RX3i modules and legacy 90-30 series I/O modules within the same chassis. This flexibility allows for gradual system modernization and cost-effective expansion without requiring complete system replacement. The secure module locking mechanism ensures all components remain firmly seated even in high-vibration environments, preventing connection issues that could lead to system faults. The extended lifecycle (-EL) designation guarantees long-term availability and support, making this backplane particularly valuable for projects with extended deployment timelines or requiring future expansion capabilities. The comprehensive electromagnetic shielding maintains signal integrity in electrically noisy industrial environments, ensuring reliable system operation.

Application Field

The GE IC695CRU320CA-EL finds application across numerous industries where reliable, expandable control system architecture is required. In manufacturing automation, it serves as the foundation for machine control systems, robotic cell controllers, and complete production line automation, providing the necessary slot capacity for complex I/O configurations and specialty modules. The extended lifecycle support makes it particularly valuable for automotive manufacturing, food and beverage processing, and pharmaceutical production facilities where systems must remain operational for decades with guaranteed component availability.

In process industries, the IC695CRU320CA-EL forms the hardware platform for critical control systems in oil and gas facilities, chemical processing plants, and water treatment operations where system reliability is paramount. The robust construction and effective thermal management make it suitable for harsh environments with wide temperature variations. Infrastructure applications include power generation facilities, airport baggage handling systems, and building automation where the backplane’s expandability supports future system enhancements. The compatibility with both new and legacy modules makes the GE IC695CRU320CA-EL ideal for modernization projects across all these sectors, allowing gradual migration from older 90-30 systems while protecting existing investments in I/O infrastructure.

Related Products

IC695PWR330: 30A power supply module designed to provide power to the IC695CRU320CA-EL and all installed modules.

IC695CPU315: High-performance RX3i CPU module that would be installed in the backplane’s CPU slot.

IC694MDL240: Example of a digital input module compatible with the IC695CRU320CA-EL backplane.

IC693MDL230: Legacy 90-30 series digital input module that maintains compatibility with this universal backplane.

IC695ALG600: High-density analog input module that leverages the backplane’s PCI bandwidth for fast data transfer.

IC695ETM001: Ethernet interface module that expands network connectivity options when installed in the backplane.

IC695CHS012: Alternative 12-slot RX3i backplane for applications requiring greater expansion capacity.

IC695CHS008: 8-slot version backplane for more compact system configurations.