Overview
The IC693CBL301 is an I/O bus expansion cable for the GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLC platform, now associated with Emerson Automation. It connects the CPU baseplate to an expansion or remote baseplate, extending the I/O bus between racks. The cable features continuous shielding and a three-connector arrangement, including one 25-pin D connector at one end and male and female 25-pin D connectors at the other.
Hardware Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | IC693CBL301 |
| Brand | GE Fanuc |
| Product Line | Series 90-30 |
| Product Type | I/O Bus Expansion Cable |
| Cable Length | 6 ft (2 m) |
| Shielding | Continuous shield |
| Cable Material | Belden 8107 only |
| Function | I/O bus expansion between baseplates |
| Compatible CPU Models | CPU 331, 340, 341, 350, 351, 352, 360, 363, and 364, subject to the applicable system configuration |
| Expansion Baseplate Distance | Up to 50 ft (15 m) |
| Remote Baseplate Distance | Up to 700 ft (213 m) |
| Maximum Expansion Cables | Up to 7 for CPU 350-364; up to 4 for CPU 331-341, subject to CPU-specific limits |
| Terminator Plug | IC693ACC307 |
| Weight | 1.13 lb (0.51 kg) |
Cable Function and Connector Configuration
The IC693CBL301 extends the Series 90-30 I/O bus between the CPU baseplate and an expansion or remote baseplate. Its three-connector arrangement provides the specified bus connection and branching interface. The continuous shield helps limit electrical interference on the cable, supporting signal integrity within the installed system.
Expansion Distance and System Limits
The maximum cable distance depends on the baseplate configuration. Expansion baseplate connections support a stated distance of up to 50 ft (15 m), while remote baseplate connections support up to 700 ft (213 m). These limits describe different configurations and should not be treated as interchangeable.
The number of expansion cables also depends on the CPU model. The supplied specifications list up to seven cables for CPUs 350 through 364 and up to four for CPUs 331 through 341. Confirm the exact CPU and rack arrangement before selecting the cable for a replacement or system extension.
Termination and Replacement Considerations
The specified I/O bus terminator plug is IC693ACC307. Verify the existing termination arrangement when replacing the cable or modifying the rack configuration. The source data also states that removal and insertion under power are not recommended; therefore, follow the applicable system shutdown and maintenance procedures before disconnecting the cable.
As the IC693CBL301 is discontinued and obsolete, check the complete part number, connector gender, cable length, shielding, and required system distance when sourcing a replacement. Do not assume that a cable with a similar connector arrangement provides equivalent bus compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which PLC platform uses the IC693CBL301?
A: The cable is specified for the GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLC platform. Confirm the CPU model and baseplate configuration before installation.
Q: What is the maximum cable distance?
A: The supplied specifications list up to 50 ft (15 m) for an expansion baseplate connection and up to 700 ft (213 m) for a remote baseplate connection. The applicable limit depends on the system configuration.
Q: Can the IC693CBL301 be disconnected while the PLC is powered?
A: Removal and insertion under power are not recommended in the supplied specifications. Follow the applicable maintenance procedures before disconnecting the cable.
