Product Overview
The IC695CRU320-EL is a specialized redundancy control unit (CRU) engineered for GE’s PACSystems RX3i, a leading programmable automation controller platform. Designed to enhance system reliability, IC695CRU320-EL enables seamless hot-standby functionality, ensuring critical industrial processes continue operating without interruption during primary CPU failures. As a core component of redundant RX3i setups, IC695CRU320-EL synchronizes data between active and standby CPUs, manages failover processes, and monitors system health—key to minimizing downtime in mission-critical applications.
What distinguishes IC695CRU320-EL is its ability to facilitate near-instantaneous switchover (under 50ms) between primary and backup CPUs, a feature that prevents production losses or safety risks in high-stakes environments. Its integration with RX3i architecture ensures compatibility with existing system components, making it a cost-effective upgrade for facilities looking to enhance fault tolerance without overhauling entire control systems. Whether deployed in continuous or batch processes, IC695CRU320-EL acts as a safeguard against unplanned outages, reinforcing the reliability of automation infrastructure.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Product Model |
IC695CRU320-EL |
| Manufacturer |
GE |
| Product Type |
Redundancy Control Unit (CRU) |
| System Compatibility |
GE PACSystems RX3i |
| Failover Time |
<50ms (maximum) |
| Synchronization Method |
Real-time data mirroring |
| Power Input |
5V DC ±5% |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Dimensions |
125 mm x 85 mm x 32 mm (W x H x D) |
| Mounting Compatibility |
RX3i 7-slot and 10-slot backplanes |
| Certifications |
UL, CE, ATEX Zone 2 compliant |
| Weight |
180 grams |
| Diagnostic Output |
LED indicators for status monitoring |
Key Features and Benefits
At the heart of IC695CRU320-EL is its advanced failover mechanism, which automatically detects CPU faults—such as unresponsive logic execution or communication failures—and switches control to the standby CPU in under 50ms. This speed ensures critical processes, like pressure regulation in chemical plants or turbine control in power stations, continue without measurable interruption, protecting both production targets and safety protocols.
Real-time data synchronization is another standout feature of IC695CRU320-EL. It continuously mirrors program logic, I/O data, and system configurations between active and standby CPUs, eliminating data loss during switchover. This synchronization occurs without burdening network bandwidth, ensuring the main control system remains responsive to process changes.
IC695CRU320-EL is built for industrial durability, with a rugged design that resists vibration, electrical noise, and temperature extremes—qualities essential for operation in factories, refineries, and outdoor installations. Integrated diagnostic tools, including LED status indicators and compatibility with GE’s Proficy Machine Edition software, provide clear visibility into redundancy health, allowing maintenance teams to address potential issues before they affect system performance. Its plug-and-play integration with RX3i CPUs (such as the IC695CPU320) simplifies installation, reducing setup time and training requirements for technicians.
Application Scenarios
The IC695CRU320-EL is indispensable in industries where even seconds of downtime carry significant costs or risks. In nuclear power plants, it safeguards reactor cooling systems, ensuring continuous control over water flow and temperature regulation—any interruption here could lead to safety violations or equipment damage. By enabling seamless CPU redundancy, IC695CRU320-EL ensures these critical systems remain operational, even if a primary control module fails.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, IC695CRU320-EL supports batch processing lines where strict regulatory compliance demands uninterrupted monitoring of mixing ratios, sterilization cycles, and quality checks. A system outage during production could invalidate entire batches, resulting in financial losses and compliance penalties. The unit’s fast failover ensures these processes continue unbroken, maintaining data integrity for audit trails.
Oil and gas pipeline control systems also rely on
IC695CRU320-EL to manage pressure and flow in transmission networks. A failure in these systems could lead to leaks, environmental damage, or supply disruptions. Deployed in remote or hazardous locations, the unit’s rugged certification (ATEX Zone 2) and redundancy capabilities make it a reliable choice for maintaining pipeline integrity 24/7.
Related Models
IC695CRU310 – Entry-level redundancy control unit for small RX3i systems, with longer failover time (100ms) and basic synchronization features.
IC695CRU330-EL – High-performance variant of IC695CRU320-EL with enhanced diagnostics and support for larger I/O configurations.
IC695CPU320 – Primary CPU module designed to pair with IC695CRU320-EL in RX3i redundancy setups, providing the processing power for critical control logic.
IC695PWR330 – Redundant power supply module that complements IC695CRU320-EL by ensuring stable power to both primary and standby CPUs.
IC695ETM002 – Advanced Ethernet module that works with IC695CRU320-EL to extend network redundancy, supporting dual-path communication for critical data.
IC695CRU320 – Non-EL variant of IC695CRU320-EL with similar functionality but limited to general industrial environments (not ATEX certified).
IC695CMM320 – Communication coprocessor that offloads data handling from CPUs paired with IC695CRU320-EL, improving overall system responsiveness.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing IC695CRU320-EL requires a compatible RX3i 7-slot or 10-slot backplane, with sufficient space to accommodate its 125 mm x 85 mm x 32 mm dimensions. Proper grounding is critical to prevent electrical interference, which can disrupt synchronization between primary and standby CPUs. The installation environment should maintain temperatures between 0°C and 60°C, with low humidity to avoid corrosion on connectors. Mounting the backplane in a sealed enclosure protects IC695CRU320-EL from dust and debris, preserving its operational lifespan.
For maintenance, regular checks of
IC695CRU320-EL include verifying LED status indicators (green for normal operation, red for faults) and running synchronization tests via Proficy Machine Edition software monthly. Firmware updates should be applied annually to ensure compatibility with newer RX3i components. Inspecting connectors for tightness and corrosion every six months is recommended, especially in high-vibration settings, to prevent communication drops between the CRU and CPUs. Replacement of internal capacitors is advised every 8–10 years to maintain reliable performance.
Product Warranty
The IC695CRU320-EL comes with a one-year warranty from Xiamen Xiongba E-commerce Co., Ltd., covering manufacturing defects and performance issues under normal operating conditions. During this period, customers receive free replacement of faulty units, minimizing downtime for their automation systems. Our technical support team provides global assistance for installation troubleshooting, redundancy configuration, and firmware updates, with priority response for critical applications. This warranty reflects our confidence in the durability and reliability of IC695CRU320-EL, underscoring our commitment to supporting long-term industrial automation efficiency and customer success.
Company Introduction: Xiamen Xiongba E-commerce Co., Ltd. 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.
