Description
GE IC698RMX016 Product Description
Product Overview
The GE IC698RMX016 is a Redundancy Memory Xchange (RMX) module designed for the GE PACSystems RX7i high-availability control platform. It serves a dual purpose: it operates as a node on a reflective memory network, and also acts as a dedicated synchronization link between two CPUs in a hot-standby redundant RX7i system.
This module delivers deterministic, microsecond-level data mirroring across connected controllers. When written to one node, all memory contents are automatically replicated across every device on the network with no CPU overhead. It features dual fiber-optic ports for ring topologies and direct CPU-to-CPU redundancy links, and is fully compatible with the VMIC 5565 family of reflective memory products. With hot-swap capability and built-in fault diagnostics, it enables continuous, fault-tolerant operation for mission-critical industrial and power generation control systems.
Core Product Features
- Dual LC multimode fiber-optic ports support both ring-style reflective memory networks and direct dual-CPU redundancy configurations.
- 16 MB of on-board reflective memory with parity checking ensures data integrity across synchronized nodes.
- CPU-independent operation offloads synchronization tasks from the host processor, preserving scan time for control logic.
- Redundancy switchover completes in less than one PLC scan cycle (typically 2–10 ms) for bumpless control transfer.
- Supports up to 256 nodes per network, with dynamic packet sizing for optimized throughput.
- 2.12 Gbaud serial link rate delivers low-latency data replication across distributed control nodes.
- Front-panel LEDs indicate link status, sync health, configuration mode and fault conditions for fast on-site diagnostics.
- Hot-swappable single-slot design allows replacement without rack power loss, minimizing system downtime.
- Full interoperability with VMIC 5565 series reflective memory devices protects existing system investments.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Official Model | IC698RMX016 |
| Product Type | Redundancy Memory Xchange (Reflective Memory) Module |
| Compatible Platform | GE PACSystems RX7i PLC System |
| Reflective Memory | 16 MB SDRAM with parity protection |
| Network Interface | 2× LC multimode fiber-optic ports (62.5/125 µm) |
| Link Rate | 2.12 Gbaud serial transmission |
| Maximum Nodes | 256 nodes per reflective memory network |
| Redundancy Switchover | < 1 PLC scan cycle (2–10 ms typical) |
| Synchronized Content | Logic, data tables, I/O image, retentive memory, communication buffers |
| Power Consumption | 1.8 A @ 5 VDC (backplane supplied); ~5 W typical |
| Hot Insertion | Supported |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 5% – 95% RH, non-condensing |
| Mounting | Single RX7i backplane slot |
| Certifications | CE, UL 508, CSA C22.2, RoHS, industrial EMC compliance |
Application Fields
- Hot-standby redundant PLC systems for high-availability factory automation
- Turbine and generator control redundancy in thermal and combined-cycle power plants
- Distributed process control systems requiring deterministic real-time data synchronization
- Critical infrastructure control including water treatment and pipeline monitoring
- Oil and gas production and refining safety and control systems
- Legacy RX7i system upgrade from simplex to dual-CPU redundant architectures
Related Model Recommendations
- IC698CMX016: Single-port Control Memory Xchange module for standard reflective memory networks without CPU redundancy.
- IC698CPU350: RX7i central processor unit, paired with RMX016 modules to build complete dual-CPU redundant control systems.
- VMIVME-5565: VMEbus reflective memory module from the same 5565 family, interoperable with RMX016 for cross-platform networks.
- IC698CHS007: 7-slot RX7i chassis that accommodates RMX modules, CPUs, power supplies and I/O modules.
