GE IC697MDL350F Output Module

Description

⚡️ High-Density Digital Control: The GE IC697MDL350F Output Module

Real-World Use & Application Scenarios (Open Strong)

The GE Fanuc IC697MDL350F is a crucial interface device used in industrial automation for reliable, high-density control of numerous field devices operating on standard North American utility voltage. This module finds its home in large-scale manufacturing operations like automotive assembly plants, where hundreds of 120 VAC solenoids control pneumatic clamps, air cylinders, and material flow diverters on an expansive production line. It is also an integral part of power generation and energy management systems, specifically within substation control panels, where it drives indicator lamps, low-power contactors, and annunciator relays that require an isolated AC signal. The necessity of the IC697MDL350F stems from its ability to handle inductive loads with a substantial inrush current capacity—up to 20 times the continuous rating.¹ This robustness makes it perfectly suited for cycling motor starters and engaging pilot lights that typically draw high instantaneous currents upon activation, avoiding module failure and downtime.² Engineers rely on this module in water treatment facilities to control chemical dosing pumps and small motor-operated valves, and in material handling systems to manage hundreds of gate outputs for sorting packages or controlling conveyor stops. Wherever a high number of moderate-current, AC-powered discrete outputs must be reliably and remotely managed by a central PLC, the GE Fanuc IC697MDL350F is the trusted workhorse.

Product Introduction & Positioning

The IC697MDL350F is a 32-point Discrete Output Module designed for the GE Fanuc Series 90-70 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) platform.³ It functions as the critical link between the digital logic processed by the PLC’s Central Processing Unit (CPU) and the physical 120-volt alternating current (AC) devices in the field. Within the Series 90-70 architecture, this module plugs directly into the main or expansion I/O rack, becoming a seamless extension of the control system’s ability to manipulate external equipment. Its specific role is to provide high-density control over low-to-moderate power AC loads, effectively serving as an array of solid-state switches. What makes the IC697MDL350F valuable to engineers and integrators is its isolated group design: the 32 outputs are segregated into four distinct groups of eight points, and each group can be powered from a separate phase of the AC supply.⁴ This isolation feature enhances system flexibility and troubleshooting, allowing critical outputs to be logically segmented and independently fused, improving overall system resilience and safety.⁵

Key Technical Features & Functional Benefits

The major strength of the IC697MDL350F lies in its functional performance, characterized by both high current-handling capability and sophisticated isolation.⁶ Each of the 32 outputs is rated for ⁷$0.5 \text{ Amps}$, yet the module boasts an exceptional inrush capacity of ⁸$10 \text{ Amps}$ per point for one cycle, providing the necessary stability to reliably switch highly inductive loads.⁹ This high inrush tolerance means fewer nuisance failures when switching common industrial components like contactor coils or indicator lights. The hardware design prioritizes maintainability and safety; the four output groups are electrically isolated from the PLC backplane (up to ¹⁰$1500 \text{ volts}$) and from each other (up to ¹¹$500 \text{ volts}$), which is critical for noise suppression and protecting the sensitive control electronics from field transients.¹²

The module is compatible with all high-speed Series 90-70 CPUs and requires no complex configuration via jumpers or DIP switches; I/O references are configured entirely through the programming software, streamlining setup.¹³ Its longevity is supported by individual 5-amp fuses protecting each of the four groups, preventing a fault in one group from taking the entire module offline, and enhancing long-term reliability.¹⁴ Furthermore, on-board LED indicators provide a clear, instant visual confirmation of the ON/OFF status for every single output point, alongside a dedicated LED to indicate the status of the group fuses.¹⁵ This simple but essential feature of the GE Fanuc IC697MDL350F drastically speeds up on-site maintenance and diagnostics.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Related Modules or Compatible Units

IC697MDL340 – A closely related module providing $24 \text{ VDC}$ discrete output control, often used alongside the IC697MDL350F in systems utilizing both AC and DC field devices.

IC697MDL653 – A higher-density $24 \text{ VDC}$ input module, frequently paired with the IC697MDL350F for applications requiring many inputs to drive the 120 VAC outputs.

IC697CPU788 – One of the high-performance CPU modules in the Series 90-70 line that controls the logic for the IC697MDL350F.

IC697RCM711 – The Remote Communication Module, which allows the CPU to control I/O racks, including those containing the IC697MDL350F, over long distances.

IC697PWR710 – The power supply module for the Series 90-70 rack, which provides the necessary $5 \text{VDC}$ backplane power used by the IC697MDL350F.

IC697CHM002 – A chassis (or rack) component, the essential mounting structure into which the IC697MDL350F is physically inserted.

Installation Notes & Maintenance Best Practices

When installing the GE Fanuc IC697MDL350F, pay careful attention to cabinet thermal management. Given its role in switching AC power, heat dissipation is a consideration, and maintaining adequate ventilation and clearance around the module is vital for its long-term reliability. Ensure the module is keyed correctly to the chassis slot, which prevents accidental insertion of an incorrect voltage or type module during replacement.¹⁶ All 120 VAC output wiring should use the appropriate gauge wire, securely terminated, and routed away from low-voltage or signal-level wiring to minimize electrical noise coupling. The separate power connections for each of the four output groups must be wired according to the application’s phase requirements, and the integrity of the external $5 \text{ Amp}$ fuses should be confirmed before initial startup.

For ongoing maintenance, the clarity of the point-level and fuse status LEDs on the IC697MDL350F simplifies troubleshooting.¹⁷ If a field device fails to activate, the first steps are checking the LED status on the module and then performing signal diagnostics on the $120 \text{ VAC}$ voltage at the output terminal. Should a group fuse LED indicate a fault, replace the fuse with a new $5 \text{ Amp}$ industrial fuse of the exact specified type. Routine maintenance should also include a visual inspection of the terminals to confirm all wiring remains tight, as vibrations in industrial settings can lead to loose connections and intermittent faults over time.