Product Overview
The IC695CRU320-EZ is an advanced communication and redundancy unit designed for GE’s RX3i programmable logic controller (PLC) series, engineered to deliver high-speed, reliable data exchange across industrial networks. As a critical component in mid-to-large scale automation systems, its primary function is to manage communication between the PLC and external devices—including HMIs, SCADA systems, cloud platforms, and other controllers—while providing redundant capabilities to ensure uninterrupted operation. This makes the IC695CRU320-EZ indispensable in applications where communication reliability and fault tolerance are essential, such as in manufacturing, energy, and transportation sectors.
What sets the IC695CRU320-EZ apart is its ability to support multiple industrial protocols simultaneously, including Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, and PROFINET, eliminating the need for additional communication modules. Its dual Gigabit Ethernet ports enable high-speed data transfer and redundant network configurations, ensuring that if one communication path fails, the other takes over seamlessly—minimizing downtime in mission-critical operations. Additionally, the IC695CRU320-EZ integrates seamlessly with GE’s Proficy Machine Edition software, simplifying configuration, monitoring, and diagnostics, and making it a versatile solution for modern industrial automation environments.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Product Model |
IC695CRU320-EZ |
| Manufacturer |
GE |
| Product Type |
Communication & Redundancy Unit |
| Supported Protocols |
Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA |
| Data Transfer Rate |
Up to 1 Gbps |
| Redundancy Support |
Hot-standby with automatic failover (<50 ms) |
| Operating Voltage |
24 VDC (±10%), 10 W maximum power consumption |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature |
-40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) |
120 mm x 30 mm x 180 mm (4.7" x 1.2" x 7.1") |
| Mounting Type |
RX3i chassis expansion slot |
| Certifications |
CE, UL, cUL, IEC 61131-2 |
| Weight |
Approximately 400 g |
| Compatibility |
GE RX3i series CPUs and I/O modules |
Key Features and Benefits
The IC695CRU320-EZ excels in its protocol versatility, supporting multiple industrial communication standards simultaneously. This allows it to interface with a wide range of devices and systems, from legacy equipment using Modbus to modern IIoT platforms leveraging OPC UA, making it a flexible choice for mixed-technology environments. Its dual Gigabit Ethernet ports not only provide high-speed data transfer but also enable redundant network configurations, ensuring continuous operation even if a network cable or switch fails. The automatic failover feature, which activates in under 50 milliseconds, is critical for applications where downtime can result in significant financial losses or safety risks.
Another key strength of the IC695CRU320-EZ is its integration with GE’s Proficy Machine Edition software. This integration simplifies configuration and management, allowing engineers to monitor network traffic, set up communication parameters, and diagnose issues through a single, intuitive interface. The unit also supports remote access and configuration, enabling technicians to make adjustments without being physically present at the site—saving time and reducing maintenance costs.
Reliability is built into the IC695CRU320-EZ’s design. It features ECC (error-correcting code) memory to ensure data integrity, watchdog timers to detect and recover from software malfunctions, and a rugged construction that resists vibration, shock, and electromagnetic interference. These features make it suitable for deployment in harsh industrial environments, such as factories, power plants, and outdoor installations, where consistent performance is essential.
Application Scenarios
The IC695CRU320-EZ is well-suited for a variety of industrial applications where reliable communication and redundancy are critical. In automotive manufacturing plants, it connects RX3i PLCs to robotic workcells, conveyor systems, and quality control stations, ensuring real-time data exchange and synchronization. Its redundancy capabilities prevent production line stoppages in the event of a network failure, maintaining high throughput and minimizing costly downtime.
In power generation facilities, the IC695CRU320-EZ manages communication between the PLC and turbine control systems, generators, and grid management platforms. By supporting protocols like OPC UA, it enables seamless integration with plant-wide SCADA systems and cloud-based analytics tools, allowing operators to monitor performance, predict maintenance needs, and optimize energy production. The unit’s redundant communication paths ensure that critical control signals are always transmitted, even if a network component fails.
For water and wastewater treatment plants, the IC695CRU320-EZ connects PLCs to sensors, pumps, and valves distributed across large facilities. Its ability to support Modbus TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP protocols allows it to interface with a wide range of equipment, while its redundancy features ensure continuous operation—critical for maintaining water quality and preventing environmental incidents. Additionally, the unit’s remote monitoring capabilities enable operators to manage the plant from a central location, reducing the need for frequent on-site inspections.
Related Models
IC695CRU310-EZ – Previous generation communication unit with basic redundancy features and lower data transfer rate.
IC695CRU320-EN – Similar model optimized for North American market with different protocol support.
IC695CPU315 – High-performance CPU module compatible with the IC695CRU320-EZ for complex automation tasks.
IC695CHS016-CA – 16-slot chassis designed to house the IC695CRU320-EZ and other RX3i modules.
IC695ETM002 – Ethernet module that complements the IC695CRU320-EZ by providing additional network ports.
IC695CMU310-DL – Communication module supporting legacy protocols, often used alongside the IC695CRU320-EZ in mixed environments.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing the IC695CRU320-EZ requires a compatible RX3i chassis with an available expansion slot. Before installation, ensure the chassis is powered off and properly grounded to prevent electrical interference. Slide the module into the slot until it locks securely, then connect the necessary Ethernet cables and power supply. Configure the unit using GE’s Proficy Machine Edition software, setting parameters such as IP addresses, communication protocols, and redundancy settings.
For maintenance, regularly inspect the
IC695CRU320-EZ for signs of physical damage or loose connections, especially in high-vibration environments. Clean the module’s vents to prevent overheating, and check the status LEDs to monitor network activity and redundancy operation. Back up configuration files periodically and update the firmware as recommended by GE to ensure optimal performance and security. Test the redundancy failover functionality annually to verify that the unit can seamlessly switch between communication paths in the event of a failure.
Product Warranty
The IC695CRU320-EZ is backed by a one-year warranty from Xiamen Xiongba E-commerce Co., Ltd., covering manufacturing defects and premature failure under normal operating conditions. This warranty includes free replacement of the defective module and technical support to assist with installation, configuration, and troubleshooting. Xiongba’s team of experts, with over a decade of experience in industrial automation, is available to provide prompt and reliable service, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations. By sourcing directly from overseas manufacturers, Xiongba ensures product authenticity and quality, offering customers a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance or reliability.
Company Introduction
Xiamen Xiongba E-commerce Co., Ltd. Branch specializes in the field of industrial automation, focusing on the sales of Distributed Control Systems (DCS), robot systems, and modules and spare parts for large-scale servo control systems. Our business covers a wide range of industrial automation products, including PLCs, MOTOROLA MVME industrial modules, Anybus communication converters, RTU remote modules, industrial PCs, low-frequency industrial displays, and SCSI human-machine interfaces. With over a decade of industry experience, Xiongba has grown into a global supplier of industrial automation spare parts. We source directly from overseas, offering products and parts from multiple countries and manufacturers. This helps solve customers' procurement challenges, ensures product quality, and provides a significant price advantage. We offer a one-year warranty and free replacement service.
