GE Fanuc IC693CMM321-EF Ethernet Controller Module

GE Fanuc IC693CMM321-EF Ethernet Interface Module

The GE Fanuc IC693CMM321-EF is an Ethernet TCP/IP Communications Interface Module engineered for the GE Fanuc Series 90-30 Programmable Logic Controller platform. Operating as an intelligent coprocessor on the Series 90-30 backplane, the IC693CMM321 executes industrial local area network communications without taxing the main CPU scan cycle.

The module establishes a deterministic bridge between Series 90-30 control racks, supervisory SCADA packages (such as CIMPLICITY®), DCS architectures, and distributed client/server automation nodes. Designed to perform reliably in demanding operating environments—including marine engine control rooms, offshore drilling power management racks, and land-based process manufacturing plants—the IC693CMM321-EF supports SRTP (Service Request Transfer Protocol) and Modbus/TCP server functions.

Network attachment is executed via an external IEEE 802.3 AAUI transceiver interface, maintaining galvanically isolated physical layer connections to 10Base-T or 10Base2 network segments. Diagnostic and system configuration functions are handled locally through onboard RS-232 and RS-485 serial interfaces.

Model Details

• Manufacturer: GE Fanuc
• Product Series: Series 90-30 PLC
• Base Model Number: IC693CMM321
• Full Manufacturing Part Number (MPN): IC693CMM321-EF (Revision EF)
• Legacy Part Numbers / Functional Equivalents:
  • IC693CMM321
  • IC693CMM321-AA through IC693CMM321-LT
  • Emerson / GE IP IC693CMM321CA
• Related Accessory Part Numbers:
  • IC649AEA102: 10Base-T (Twisted Pair RJ-45) External Transceiver with SQE
  • IC649AEA103: 10Base2 (Coaxial BNC / Thinnet) External Transceiver with SQE
  • IC693CBL316: 6-Pin RJ-11 Station Manager Diagnostic Cable (RS-232)
  • IC690ACC901: RS-422/RS-485 to RS-232 Serial Mini-Converter Kit (for Firmware Loader)

Technical Specifications

Equipment Compatibility

• Series 90-30 CPU Modules: Fully compatible with modular CPUs including IC693CPU311, IC693CPU313, IC693CPU323, IC693CPU331, IC693CPU341, IC693CPU350, IC693CPU352, IC693CPU360, and IC693CPU364. (Note: Modular CPUs require firmware Revision 6.50 or higher to support COMMREQ client commands across the backplane).
• Baseplates: Installs in any standard embedded or modular Series 90-30 CPU Baseplate (IC693CHS391, IC693CHS397) and Expansion Baseplates (IC693CHS392, IC693CHS398) powered by standard IC693PWR321 (120/240 VAC/125 VDC) or IC693PWR330 (24 VDC) power supplies.
• Programming Software: Programmed and configured through Logicmaster 90-30, VersaPro (v2.0+), or GE Proficy Machine Edition (PME) / Emerson PAC Machine Edition.
• Supervisory Platforms: Native connection support for CIMPLICITY HMI/SCADA, Wonderware InTouch, Ignition by Inductive Automation, and open OPC/KEPServerEX drivers via SRTP over Port 18245 or standard Modbus/TCP over Port 502.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between GE Fanuc IC693CMM321 and CPU364 embedded Ethernet?

The IC693CMM321 is a standalone communication coprocessor that installs into any available I/O slot on a standard Series 90-30 baseplate, leaving CPU memory intact. The CPU364 combines both the ladder logic processor engine and the Ethernet interface into a single, integrated rack module. Using the IC693CMM321 allows you to add modern Ethernet capabilities to existing CPU331, CPU341, or CPU350 racks without replacing the primary controller.

Does the IC693CMM321-EF have a direct RJ-45 10/100Base-T port?

No. The module utilizes an industry-standard 14-pin AAUI (Apple Attachment Unit Interface) transceiving port. To connect standard twisted-pair RJ-45 category Ethernet cables, you must attach an external 10Base-T transceiver (part number IC649AEA102 or a pin-compatible IEEE 802.3 equivalent).

What is the function of the recessed RESTART pushbutton on the module faceplate?

The restart button provides four distinct utility actions based on hold duration and boot mode: LED diagnostic testing, software restart, software restart with configuration reload from CPU, and direct maintenance utility boot for low-level firmware recovery.

Can I install two IC693CMM321 modules in a single Series 90-30 baseplate?

Yes. Up to two IC693CMM321 Ethernet modules can be mounted in a single Series 90-30 baseplate rack. This setup is commonly used to separate plant floor I/O traffic from higher-level SCADA/MES networks or to build redundant network pathways.

How do I configure the IP address on an IC693CMM321-EF?

The IP address can be assigned via hardware configuration in your programming software (Proficy Machine Edition or VersaPro) and downloaded through the CPU. Alternatively, you can configure the IP address directly through the Station Manager port using a serial terminal connection (9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit) plugged into the front-facing RJ-11 port via an IC693CBL316 cable.