Product Overview
The GE IC698RMX016ED is a robust remote expansion rack module, a key component of GE’s PACSystems RX3i series, designed to extend the I/O capacity of RX3i systems by enabling remote deployment of I/O modules. As a critical link between the main PLC rack and distributed I/O, GE IC698RMX016ED facilitates high-speed data transmission between central controllers and remote sensors, actuators, or other field devices, making it essential for large-scale automation setups where equipment is spread across vast facilities.
This module integrates seamlessly with RX3i CPUs (such as the IC695CPU315) and communication modules (like the IC695NIU001), supporting scalable system design by adding 16 slots for I/O modules without sacrificing performance. GE IC698RMX016ED is engineered to withstand industrial harshness, including temperature fluctuations and electrical noise, ensuring reliable operation in environments from factory floors to remote oil rigs. Its ability to operate over extended distances simplifies installation in sprawling facilities, reducing wiring costs and complexity. Whether in automotive plants or water treatment facilities, GE IC698RMX016ED provides the flexibility to expand automation systems without compromising on speed or reliability.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Product Model |
GE IC698RMX016ED |
| Manufacturer |
GE |
| Product Type |
Remote Expansion Rack Module |
| Slot Capacity |
16 slots for RX3i I/O modules |
| Backplane Data Transfer Rate |
1 Gbps |
| Communication Interface |
Ethernet/IP (for remote connectivity) |
| Power Requirements |
24 VDC (external power supply) |
| Operating Temperature Range |
0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature Range |
-40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) |
300 mm x 200 mm x 150 mm |
| Mounting Type |
Wall or DIN rail mounting |
| Maximum Distance from Main Rack |
Up to 100 meters (via Ethernet) |
| Compatibility |
GE RX3i CPUs, IC695NIU001 communication modules, and RX3i I/O modules |
| Protection Features |
Overvoltage, short circuit protection |
| Certifications |
CE, UL, CSA |
Key Features and Benefits
GE IC698RMX016ED offers 16 slots for RX3i I/O modules, providing ample capacity to connect diverse field devices—such as analog sensors, digital actuators, and specialty modules—without overcrowding the main rack. This scalability is invaluable for facilities expanding production lines or adding new equipment, as it eliminates the need for a complete system overhaul.
The module’s 1 Gbps backplane ensures high-speed data transmission, critical for real-time control applications where synchronized operation across distributed components is essential. Whether transmitting sensor data from a remote pump station to the main PLC or sending control signals to a distant valve, GE IC698RMX016ED minimizes latency, maintaining system responsiveness even in large setups.
Built for industrial resilience, GE IC698RMX016ED operates reliably across a wide temperature range and resists electrical interference, ensuring consistent performance in noisy environments like manufacturing plants or power stations. Its support for Ethernet/IP simplifies integration with existing RX3i networks, reducing setup time and compatibility issues.
GE IC698RMX016ED also features advanced diagnostics, including real-time status updates on backplane health and module connectivity, accessible via PLC programming software. This allows maintenance teams to quickly identify issues—such as a faulty I/O module or wiring problem—reducing troubleshooting time and unplanned downtime.
Application Scenarios
GE IC698RMX016ED is widely used in industries with sprawling automation infrastructure. In automotive manufacturing plants, it extends RX3i systems to remote assembly stations—for example, connecting I/O modules monitoring robotic arms in a paint shop (located 50 meters from the main control room) to the central PLC. The module’s high-speed backplane ensures the main CPU receives real-time data on paint viscosity and robot position, maintaining production quality.
In water treatment facilities, GE IC698RMX016ED supports remote I/O racks at filtration plants and pump stations, spread across large sites. It connects level sensors, flow meters, and valve actuators to the main RX3i controller, enabling centralized monitoring and control of distributed processes. This setup reduces the need for long cable runs, lowering installation costs and minimizing signal degradation.
Oil and gas refineries rely on GE IC698RMX016ED to deploy I/O modules in hazardous areas (via certified enclosures) where main racks cannot be installed. For instance, it connects pressure transducers and emergency shutdown valves in a distillation unit to the central PLC, ensuring critical safety data is transmitted quickly enough to prevent overpressure incidents.
In logistics hubs, the module extends RX3i systems to remote conveyor sections, integrating with I/O modules that track package positions and trigger sorting mechanisms—key for maintaining efficient material flow in large warehouses.
Related Models
IC698RMX008ED – Compact 8-slot variant, ideal for smaller remote I/O setups with fewer modules than GE IC698RMX016ED.
IC698RMX032ED – High-capacity 32-slot model, suitable for large-scale systems requiring extensive remote I/O integration.
IC698RMX016DD – Ruggedized version of GE IC698RMX016ED with extended temperature range (-20°C to 70°C) for extreme environments.
IC698RMX016CD – Previous generation model with 500 Mbps backplane, offering basic functionality for less demanding applications.
IC695CRU320CA – Main rack module compatible with GE IC698RMX016ED for centralized control of remote expansions.
IC695NIU001 – Network interface module that pairs with GE IC698RMX016ED to enable Ethernet/IP communication between main and remote racks.
IC698RMX016FD – Redundant configuration variant with automatic failover, designed for mission-critical applications like nuclear power plants.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation of GE IC698RMX016ED requires a stable mounting surface (wall or DIN rail) with sufficient clearance (minimum 100 mm) for module insertion and airflow. The remote rack should be grounded separately from the main rack to maximize noise isolation, and located in a dry environment within 0°C to 60°C. Ensure Ethernet cabling between the main rack (via IC695NIU001) and GE IC698RMX016ED uses industrial-grade CAT6 cable, with lengths not exceeding 100 meters to maintain data speed. Verify compatibility with RX3i I/O modules before installation to avoid fitment issues.
For maintenance, inspect
GE IC698RMX016ED quarterly to check for loose backplane connections or corrosion on terminals, tightening as needed. Clean dust from vents using compressed air to prevent overheating. Monitor PLC diagnostic logs for remote communication errors, which may indicate cable degradation or module issues. If the backplane data rate drops consistently below 1 Gbps, or if slots fail to recognize installed modules, replace
GE IC698RMX016ED to maintain system performance.
Product Warranty
GE IC698RMX016ED is backed by a one-year warranty from Xiamen Xiongba E-commerce Co., Ltd., covering defects in materials or workmanship with a free replacement service. This warranty reflects our confidence in the module’s quality, supported by direct sourcing from overseas manufacturers to ensure authenticity. Our technical support team provides assistance with installation, network configuration, and troubleshooting, with global response capabilities to address operational needs promptly. Should GE IC698RMX016ED encounter issues within the warranty period, our free replacement service minimizes downtime, underscoring our commitment to reliable industrial automation solutions and customer satisfaction.
