Product Overview

The GE IC697CHS783 VME Integrator Rack Mount is a rack assembly designed for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 programmable controller platform. It provides a modular mounting and backplane environment for integrating compatible Series 90-70 PLC modules with selected third-party VME hardware.

The IC697CHS783 is part of the VME Integrator Rack family and is intended for applications where standard Series 90-70 PLC hardware needs to operate together with VME-based specialty modules. By providing a common backplane architecture, the rack allows different control, communication, processing, and interface modules to be incorporated into one industrial control system.

The rack provides 17 VME slot positions with 0.8-inch slot spacing. This architecture gives system integrators additional flexibility when selecting VME-compatible hardware for specialized applications.

The IC697CHS783 is designed for a different mounting arrangement from certain rear-mounted integrator rack configurations, making it useful for control cabinets where front or rack-access installation is preferred.

The specified dimensions are approximately 283 × 483 × 184 mm, while the specified weight is approximately 4.54 kg.

The IC697CHS783 is not a standalone processor. Instead, it functions as the physical and electrical foundation for compatible Series 90-70 processors, I/O modules, communication modules, and VME devices.

Technical Specifications

Function and Working Principle

The primary purpose of the IC697CHS783 is to provide a common mechanical and electrical platform for compatible Series 90-70 PLC modules and selected VME modules.

The rack itself does not execute PLC control logic. Instead, it provides the backplane through which installed modules can communicate and receive system power.

A simplified architecture is:

AC Power → Power Supply → IC697CHS783 Backplane → CPU / I/O / VME Modules → Field Devices

The CPU module executes the PLC program and processes information received from the I/O system.

Input modules receive signals from field sensors, switches, transmitters, and other devices.

Output modules provide control signals to equipment such as motors, valves, relays, contactors, and actuators.

VME modules can provide additional functionality such as specialized processing, communication, measurement, or equipment interfacing.

The rack brings these different hardware elements together through a common backplane architecture.

This arrangement is particularly useful when an industrial automation system requires functionality that is not available through standard Series 90-70 modules alone.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The IC697CHS783 acts as an integration platform within a modular industrial control architecture.

A typical control system can be represented as:

Sensors → I/O Modules → CPU → VME / Communication Interfaces → Actuators and Supervisory Systems

The rack provides the physical structure and electrical interconnection needed to support this architecture.

Its role can include:

• PLC module mounting
• VME module integration
• Backplane communication
• System power distribution
• Hardware organization
• I/O expansion
• Communication expansion
• Specialty hardware integration
• Cabinet-level system integration
• Modular maintenance

The VME Integrator architecture is particularly useful for legacy industrial systems that need to combine GE PLC technology with specialized VME-based equipment.

Rather than replacing the entire control system, engineers can potentially maintain the existing Series 90-70 architecture while integrating compatible VME hardware for specialized functions.

Industrial Applications

Manufacturing Automation

The IC697CHS783 can be used in manufacturing control systems where a Series 90-70 PLC requires additional VME-based processing or interface functions.

Potential applications include:

• Production lines
• Assembly systems
• Machine control
• Automated material handling
• Production monitoring
• Equipment sequencing

Process Control

Process-control systems often require combinations of analog I/O, digital I/O, communication interfaces, and specialty processing.

The rack provides a modular platform for integrating these functions.

Industrial Data Acquisition

VME-based acquisition hardware can be integrated into suitable Series 90-70 architectures for applications involving measurement and monitoring.

The rack provides the physical infrastructure for installing compatible acquisition modules.

Communication Systems

Specialized VME communication modules can extend the communication capabilities of an industrial control system when correctly integrated.

This can be useful for legacy systems that need to interface with external equipment or specialized industrial networks.

Power and Utility Applications

Utility and infrastructure systems may require PLC-based monitoring and control together with specialized interface hardware.

The IC697CHS783 can form part of a suitable control architecture where VME integration is required.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Large infrastructure systems can involve numerous control, monitoring, and communication functions.

A modular VME rack architecture provides flexibility when specialized hardware is required.

OEM Machinery

OEM equipment may require specialty modules for functions such as motion control, measurement, data processing, or equipment interfacing.

The IC697CHS783 provides a platform for integrating compatible VME hardware with Series 90-70 control components.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is important because the IC697CHS783 provides the backplane foundation for the complete PLC and VME configuration.

Before installation, engineers should verify:

• Rack model
• Mounting configuration
• Series 90-70 compatibility
• VME module compatibility
• CPU requirements
• Power supply capacity
• Backplane configuration
• Module spacing
• Cabinet dimensions
• Cooling requirements
• Grounding
• Wiring
• Communication requirements

Typical Installation Procedure

1. De-energize the control cabinet.
2. Confirm the rack model and intended system architecture.
3. Prepare the front or rack-mount installation location.
4. Secure the IC697CHS783 to the cabinet structure.
5. Establish the appropriate grounding connection.
6. Install the compatible power supply.
7. Install the Series 90-70 CPU module.
8. Install the required digital and analog I/O modules.
9. Install compatible communication modules.
10. Install approved VME specialty modules.
11. Verify all module seating.
12. Check backplane jumper configuration.
13. Connect field wiring.
14. Connect communication cables.
15. Verify power distribution.
16. Verify grounding and cable routing.
17. Apply power to the system.
18. Check module status indicators.
19. Verify CPU operation.
20. Test I/O and VME module functions.
21. Verify PLC communication.
22. Complete the system commissioning procedure.

When installing VME modules, engineers should pay particular attention to module power consumption, backplane configuration, addressing, mechanical clearance, and cooling.

The actual system configuration should be evaluated as a complete assembly rather than treating the rack as an independent component.

VME Module Integration

The key feature of the IC697CHS783 is its ability to integrate compatible VME hardware with the Series 90-70 PLC architecture.

The rack provides 17 VME slot positions with 0.8-inch spacing.

This allows system designers to integrate selected third-party VME modules alongside compatible Series 90-70 modules.

Possible VME applications include:

• Specialized data processing
• Industrial communication
• Measurement
• Data acquisition
• Equipment interfacing
• Application-specific control
• Specialty computing functions

The exact number of VME modules that can be installed depends on the available power capacity and the requirements of the installed hardware.

Backplane configuration may also be important when integrating VME devices. The appropriate jumper configuration should be established according to the requirements of the VME modules used in the system.

For this reason, replacement or expansion projects should verify the electrical and mechanical characteristics of every module before installation.

Compatible System Components

The IC697CHS783 can be incorporated into a Series 90-70 control system together with compatible PLC and VME components.

The exact combination of components should be determined according to the complete Series 90-70 and VME system configuration.

Recommended Alternative Models

The following GE Series 90-70 rack products may be considered for similar PLC and VME integration requirements.

The IC697CHS771 can be considered when a VME Integrator Rack is required with a different mounting arrangement.

The IC697CHS782 is another VME Integrator Rack option and is particularly relevant when a rear or panel-mounted configuration is preferred.

The IC697CHS783 provides the corresponding VME integration platform for applications requiring the appropriate front or rack-mounted arrangement.

For standard PLC installations without third-party VME hardware, the IC697CHS750 or other compatible Series 90-70 rack assemblies may be more appropriate.

For redundant control applications, the IC697CHS770 should be evaluated instead of a standard VME Integrator Rack.

Before selecting a replacement, engineers should compare mounting configuration, slot arrangement, backplane compatibility, installed modules, power supply capacity, VME requirements, cooling, and cabinet dimensions.

Key Advantages

• Designed for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 systems
• VME Integrator Rack architecture
• 17 VME slot positions
• 0.8-inch VME slot spacing
• Supports compatible Series 90-70 modules
• Supports selected third-party VME modules
• Front / rack-mounted configuration
• Provides common backplane interconnection
• Supports modular PLC architecture
• Flexible VME hardware integration
• Suitable for specialty processing
• Suitable for communication hardware
• Suitable for data acquisition
• Supports compatible Series 90-70 power supplies
• Supports CPU and I/O module configurations
• Suitable for industrial control cabinets
• Suitable for manufacturing automation
• Suitable for process-control systems
• Suitable for utility applications
• Suitable for OEM machinery
• Dimensions of approximately 283 × 483 × 184 mm
• Approximate weight of 4.54 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the GE IC697CHS783?

The IC697CHS783 is a VME Integrator Rack Mount designed for GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC systems. It provides a rack and backplane platform for integrating compatible Series 90-70 modules with selected VME hardware.

Is the IC697CHS783 a PLC processor?

No. The IC697CHS783 is a rack assembly rather than a CPU. A compatible Series 90-70 processor must be installed separately.

How many VME slots does the IC697CHS783 provide?

The rack provides 17 VME slot positions with approximately 0.8-inch slot spacing.

What are the dimensions of the IC697CHS783?

The specified dimensions are approximately 283 × 483 × 184 mm.

How much does the IC697CHS783 weigh?

The specified weight is approximately 4.54 kg.

What is the main function of the IC697CHS783?

Its main function is to provide the mechanical mounting structure and electrical backplane required to integrate compatible Series 90-70 PLC modules and VME devices.

Can third-party VME modules be installed?

Yes. The VME Integrator architecture is designed to support selected third-party VME modules, provided that the modules are electrically and mechanically compatible with the complete system.

Can Series 90-70 I/O modules be used?

Yes. Compatible Series 90-70 digital, analog, communication, and specialty modules can be integrated according to the system configuration.

What is the difference between IC697CHS782 and IC697CHS783?

Both models are VME Integrator Racks intended for Series 90-70 systems. Their primary distinction is the mounting configuration. The IC697CHS783 is intended for the corresponding front/rack-mounted arrangement, while the IC697CHS782 is associated with rear/panel mounting.

Is the IC697CHS783 a redundant rack?

No. The IC697CHS783 is a VME Integrator Rack. It should not be confused with dedicated redundant rack configurations such as the IC697CHS770.

Does the IC697CHS783 require a separate power supply?

Yes. The rack is part of a modular control system and requires a compatible Series 90-70 power supply as part of the complete installation.

Can the rack be used for industrial automation?

Yes. It can form part of industrial automation systems involving manufacturing, process control, data acquisition, communication, infrastructure, and OEM machinery.

What should be checked before replacing the IC697CHS783?

Engineers should verify rack mounting configuration, installed Series 90-70 modules, VME module compatibility, power supply capacity, backplane configuration, cooling, cabinet dimensions, wiring, and overall system architecture.

Conclusion

The GE IC697CHS783 VME Integrator Rack Mount is a specialized rack component for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 PLC platform, providing a flexible environment for combining Series 90-70 control modules with compatible third-party VME hardware.

With specified dimensions of 283 × 483 × 184 mm and an approximate weight of 4.54 kg, the IC697CHS783 is designed for industrial control cabinet integration and provides a modular foundation for PLC and VME-based control architectures.

Its 17-slot VME configuration and 0.8-inch slot spacing allow selected VME modules to be incorporated into a Series 90-70 control system. This can be particularly valuable for legacy automation installations requiring specialized processing, communication, measurement, data acquisition, or equipment-interface functions.

The IC697CHS783 can support applications in manufacturing automation, process control, industrial data acquisition, utility systems, infrastructure, and OEM machinery.

For replacement projects, the rack should always be evaluated together with the complete control architecture. Engineers should verify CPU compatibility, power supply capacity, module type, VME requirements, backplane configuration, mounting arrangement, cooling, cabinet space, and communication requirements before replacing an existing rack.

When correctly configured with compatible Series 90-70 and VME components, the IC697CHS783 provides a practical and modular platform for maintaining and expanding legacy industrial control systems.