Product Overview

The GE IC697CLG320 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is an industrial control component designed for use within the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 automation platform. It provides programmable control capabilities for industrial machines, production equipment, process systems, and other automation applications requiring reliable sequence control and real-time operation.

A PLC such as the IC697CLG320 is designed to monitor field inputs, execute a user-defined control program, process logic and operating conditions, and generate corresponding outputs for connected equipment.

The controller can form part of a larger Series 90-70 control architecture that includes a rack, power supply, digital and analog I/O modules, communication modules, operator interfaces, and field devices.

The IC697CLG320 has specified dimensions of approximately 130 × 40 × 165 mm and a specified weight of approximately 0.9 kg.

In an industrial automation system, the controller serves as the processing element of the control architecture. It coordinates information received from sensors and I/O modules and uses programmed logic to determine how connected equipment should operate.

The controller is therefore fundamentally different from a rack or I/O module. The rack provides the physical and electrical platform, while the I/O modules interface with field equipment and the PLC controller processes the application logic.

Technical Specifications

Function and Working Principle

The primary function of the IC697CLG320 is to provide programmable control within an industrial automation system.

The basic PLC operating process can be represented as:

Field Inputs → I/O Modules → PLC Controller → Control Logic → Output Modules → Field Equipment

The controller continuously processes information from connected input devices.

For example, sensors can provide information regarding:

• Machine position
• Motor status
• Temperature
• Pressure
• Level
• Flow
• Product presence
• Safety conditions
• Equipment status

The PLC processes these signals according to the application program.

Depending on the programmed conditions, the controller can then command output devices such as:

• Motors
• Solenoid valves
• Contactors
• Relays
• Pneumatic equipment
• Hydraulic equipment
• Indicator devices
• Control valves

The PLC’s control logic can include sequencing, timing, counting, interlocking, comparison, alarm handling, and other automation functions.

This allows industrial equipment to operate automatically according to predefined operating conditions.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The IC697CLG320 functions as the processing and decision-making component of a compatible PLC architecture.

A typical industrial control system can be organized as:

Sensors → Input Modules → IC697CLG320 PLC → Output Modules → Actuators

Additional communication hardware can connect the PLC to:

• Human-machine interfaces
• Supervisory systems
• Other PLCs
• Industrial networks
• Remote control stations
• Engineering workstations

The PLC controller interprets the information received from the field and determines the required control response.

For example, in a conveyor system, input modules can monitor product sensors and motor status. The controller can process this information and command output modules to start, stop, or sequence conveyor equipment.

In a process-control application, analog input modules can provide measurements such as pressure or temperature, while the controller uses the programmed logic to determine the appropriate control response.

This makes the PLC an important central component in the overall automation architecture.

Industrial Applications

Manufacturing Automation

The IC697CLG320 can be used in manufacturing control architectures where programmable sequencing and equipment coordination are required.

Potential applications include:

• Assembly lines
• Packaging machinery
• Production equipment
• Conveyor systems
• Automated inspection
• Material handling

The PLC can coordinate multiple machines and devices according to programmed operating sequences.

Machine Control

Industrial machines often require precise control of motors, valves, sensors, switches, and actuators.

The controller can process the required input information and execute the programmed sequence of operations.

Process Control

Process applications can use compatible analog and digital I/O modules to monitor process conditions.

Typical process variables can include:

• Temperature
• Pressure
• Flow
• Level
• Equipment status

The controller can process these values and execute the appropriate programmed control functions.

Material Handling

Conveyors, sorting equipment, lifting systems, transfer machines, and automated storage equipment can use PLC-based control architectures.

The controller can coordinate sensors, motors, switches, and other equipment.

Water and Wastewater

Water-treatment and pumping systems often require automatic control of pumps, valves, tanks, sensors, and alarms.

A Series 90-70 PLC architecture can provide centralized control for these applications.

Utility Systems

Industrial utility equipment can use PLC control for monitoring and operating pumps, motors, electrical equipment, and auxiliary systems.

OEM Machinery

Machine manufacturers can integrate compatible Series 90-70 PLC hardware into equipment requiring programmable sequencing, interlocking, monitoring, and communication functions.

Installation and System Integration

The IC697CLG320 should be installed as part of a complete compatible Series 90-70 PLC system.

Before installation, engineers should verify:

• PLC model
• Rack compatibility
• Power supply requirements
• CPU and controller configuration
• I/O requirements
• Communication requirements
• Programming requirements
• Cabinet dimensions
• Grounding
• Environmental conditions
• Cooling and ventilation
• Field wiring
• System expansion requirements

Typical Installation Procedure

1. De-energize the PLC cabinet.
2. Verify the IC697CLG320 model and system configuration.
3. Confirm rack and backplane compatibility.
4. Install the required Series 90-70 rack.
5. Install the compatible power supply.
6. Install the controller in the designated rack position.
7. Verify that the controller is correctly seated.
8. Install the required input and output modules.
9. Install communication modules if required.
10. Connect field wiring.
11. Connect communication cables.
12. Verify grounding.
13. Check the power supply configuration.
14. Apply system power.
15. Inspect controller status indicators.
16. Load or verify the application program.
17. Check input and output operation.
18. Verify communication functions.
19. Test the control sequence.
20. Complete system commissioning.

During commissioning, engineers should verify that input signals correspond correctly to the programmed addresses and that output commands operate the intended field devices.

PLC System Integration

The IC697CLG320 should not normally be considered as an isolated component. Its operation depends on the surrounding Series 90-70 system architecture.

A typical configuration may include:

Rack + Power Supply + PLC Controller + I/O Modules + Communication Modules + Field Devices

The rack provides the physical and electrical infrastructure.

The power supply provides system operating power.

The controller executes the application logic.

I/O modules provide the interface between the controller and field equipment.

Communication modules provide connections to other automation devices or supervisory systems.

This modular architecture allows system designers to select hardware according to the requirements of each application.

For maintenance projects, the modular structure can also simplify troubleshooting because individual components can be inspected and replaced independently.

Compatible System Components

The IC697CLG320 can form part of a Series 90-70 control system using compatible components.

The actual module combination should be determined according to the requirements of the specific Series 90-70 installation.

Recommended Alternative Models

The following GE Series 90-70 components may be considered when designing or maintaining a PLC control system with similar requirements.

The IC697CGR772 can be considered when a central processing unit is required within a Series 90-70 architecture.

The IC697CGR935 is another controller-related option for applications where a single-slot controller configuration is appropriate.

The IC697BEM741 and IC697BEM742 are more specialized toward FIP bus communication, while the IC697BEM761 and IC697BEM763 provide interface functions rather than serving as the primary PLC processing component.

When selecting an alternative, engineers should verify the exact control architecture, processor requirements, rack compatibility, I/O configuration, programming environment, communication requirements, and installed software.

Key Advantages

• Designed for industrial PLC control applications
• Compatible with the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 architecture
• Provides programmable control functionality
• Processes field input information
• Executes programmed control logic
• Controls connected output devices
• Supports modular PLC architecture
• Can be integrated with digital I/O
• Can be integrated with analog I/O
• Can work with communication modules
• Suitable for manufacturing automation
• Suitable for machine control
• Suitable for process-control systems
• Suitable for material-handling applications
• Suitable for utility systems
• Suitable for OEM machinery
• Supports centralized automation control
• Designed for integration within industrial control cabinets
• Specified dimensions of 130 × 40 × 165 mm
• Approximate weight of 0.9 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the GE IC697CLG320?

The GE IC697CLG320 is identified as a Programmable Logic Controller for industrial automation applications. It can form part of a modular GE Fanuc Series 90-70 control system.

What is the main function of the IC697CLG320?

Its primary function is programmable industrial control. The controller processes information from input devices, executes application logic, and generates control commands for connected output devices.

What are the dimensions of the IC697CLG320?

The specified dimensions are approximately 130 × 40 × 165 mm.

How much does the IC697CLG320 weigh?

The specified weight is approximately 0.9 kg.

Is the IC697CLG320 an I/O module?

No. It is identified as a programmable logic controller. I/O modules provide the interface between the PLC system and field devices.

Can the IC697CLG320 control motors and valves?

A PLC controller can control motors, valves, relays, contactors, and other equipment through compatible output modules. The exact control capability depends on the installed I/O hardware and system configuration.

Can analog signals be used with the controller?

Analog signals can be incorporated through compatible Series 90-70 analog input and output modules. These modules provide the appropriate interface between field instruments and the PLC architecture.

Can communication modules be integrated?

Yes. Compatible communication and bus interface modules can be incorporated into the overall Series 90-70 system when required.

Where is the IC697CLG320 typically used?

It can be used in industrial automation applications such as manufacturing, machine control, process control, material handling, utilities, and OEM machinery.

Does the IC697CLG320 require a rack?

It is intended to operate as part of a modular PLC architecture, so the complete installation requires compatible rack, power, I/O, and other system components as applicable.

What should be checked before replacing the IC697CLG320?

Engineers should verify the controller configuration, rack compatibility, power supply, I/O modules, communication hardware, application program, cabinet arrangement, wiring, and overall Series 90-70 architecture.

Conclusion

The GE IC697CLG320 Programmable Logic Controller is a control component intended for integration into an industrial automation architecture. Its role is to process field information, execute programmed control logic, and coordinate connected equipment through compatible I/O and communication hardware.

With specified dimensions of 130 × 40 × 165 mm and an approximate weight of 0.9 kg, the IC697CLG320 provides a compact form factor for suitable PLC system configurations.

The controller can form part of manufacturing automation, machine control, process-control, material-handling, utility, and OEM automation systems. When combined with compatible Series 90-70 racks, power supplies, I/O modules, communication interfaces, and field devices, it can participate in a complete industrial control architecture.

For maintenance and replacement projects, the controller should be evaluated together with the complete system rather than as an isolated component. Rack compatibility, power requirements, I/O configuration, communication interfaces, programming requirements, and existing system architecture should all be verified before installation.

When correctly integrated with compatible automation hardware, the GE IC697CLG320 provides a modular PLC control solution for industrial systems requiring programmable monitoring, sequencing, logic processing, and equipment control.