Fanuc Corporation GE FANUC Genius Bus Controller - IC693BEM331

Fanuc Corporation GE FANUC Genius Bus Controller - IC693BEM331

The IC693BEM331 is a Genius Bus Controller. This device is manufactured by GE Fanuc that is part of the Series 90-30 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) product family. This Bus Controller Module is used to interface Series 90-30 PLC and existing Genius I/O Serial bus. It is capable of transmitting and receiving up to 128 Bytes of data and communicate up to 31 devices residing on the same I/O bus. It is compatible with Series 90-30, Series 6 and Series 5 controller family.

Information About IC693BEM331

The IC693BEM331 is a Bus Controller Module that is part of the GE Sires 90-30 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) product family. This module is manufactured by GE Fanuc Automation, for interfacing a Series 90-30 PLC to the proprietary Genius I/O bus. This bus controller module is capable of communicating with Genius blocks such as discrete, analog, and special purpose field devices. It also supports communication with Remote I/O drops consisting of Series 90-70 I/O racks connected via Remote I/O scanner modules, Field control I/O station via Bus interface unit wherein up to Eight (8) additional field control modules is supported, Genius Hand-Held Monitor, and a variety of Hosts.

A Series 90-30 PLC system may be installed with up to Eight (8) Genius Bus Controllers or enhanced Genius Communications Modules. The achieve this configuration, the required firmware of the Series 90-30 PLC is Firmware 5.0 or later.

The IC693BEM331 is equipped with a variety of Status LEDs installed on the module’s front panel. These LEDs include OK and COM LED. The normal operation of the OK LED is steady on-state. This LED remains ON after power-up diagnostics are completed. The COM LED is steadily ON when the bus controller module is actively communicating and blinks for intermittent bus connection and error.

Compatible Series 90-30 PLC for use with the IC693BEM331 Bus Controller are IC693CPU311K, 321K, 331L or later and any version of the IC693CPU313, 323, 340, 341, 350, 351, 352, 360, 363, and 364. Required firmware for use is version 5.0 or later.

The GE Fanuc IC693BEM331 Bus Controller is able to handle a maximum of 128 bytes of incoming and outgoing data from the field devices on the Bus. The configuration of the GE Fanuc IC693BEM331 Bus Controller is done through an additional proprietary GE Fanuc handheld monitor. Some of the I/O device types that can send and receive data to a Series 90-30 PLC that is using the GE Fanuc IC693BEM331 Bus Controller as a communication interface include discrete I/O devices such as solenoid valves, motor starters, and limit switches or analog I/O devices such as pressure transmitters and temperature sensors. The manufacturer recommends mounting the GE Fanuc IC693BEM331 Bus Controller inside a protective enclosure in order to avoid direct contact with water, excess humidity, and extreme high and low extremes of temperatures. Any work requiring maintenance on the circuitry should be carried out only by qualified personnel, because the mishandling of the equipment or the incorrect connection of any its wiring can produce application process malfunctions, property damage, or serious injury.

Manufacturer information

GE FANUC, now part of Emerson Automation Solutions, was a leading provider of industrial automation and control systems. Known for innovative solutions, GE FANUC played a key role in advancing manufacturing, offering a range of products including PLCs, CNCs, and HMI solutions.

 Specifications 

What our Experts Think

• Seamless Integration:
  Specifically designed for the GE Series 90-30 PLC, this module enables communication with Genius I/O devices such as Genius Blocks and VersaMax components.

• Efficient Data Handling:
  Supports up to 128 bytes per message and connects to up to 31 devices on a single Genius bus, enabling high-speed, distributed control.

• Flexible Communication Rates:
  Operates at selectable baud rates of 38.4K, 76.8K, or 153.6K, adapting easily to various network setups.

• Reliable Isolation:
  Built with 2000V Hi-Pot isolation and 1500V transient common-mode rejection, ensuring durability and signal integrity in electrically noisy environments.

• Compact & Industrial-Grade:
  Features a space-efficient design with IP20 protection, making it well-suited for installation in industrial control panels.

• Easy to Configure:
  Compatible with Proficy Machine Edition and Logicmaster 90, allowing smooth integration and simplified system setup.

Q&A

Q: What is the GE Fanuc IC693BEM331 Genius Bus Controller?
A: It is a communication module for GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLCs that connects the system to Genius I/O devices via the Genius Bus network.

Q: How many devices can this controller support?
A: It supports communication with up to 31 devices on a single Genius Bus network.

Q: What are the typical applications for this module?
A: It is used in industrial automation systems for distributed I/O communication and remote device control.

Q: What are the LED indicators used for?
A: It includes status LEDs to indicate module health and communication activity.

Q: What voltage does the IC693BEM331 operate on?
A: It runs on 5V DC, powered through the PLC backplane.

Q: Is this module hot-swappable?
A: No, power must be turned off before installing or removing the module.

Maintenance Tips

• Inspect LED Indicators Regularly – Ensure the “OK” and “COMM OK” lights are functioning properly to confirm system health.

• Verify Proper Termination – Make sure the Genius Bus is correctly terminated at both ends to maintain reliable communication.

• Check Device Connections – Periodically inspect all cabling and connectors for wear, corrosion, or loose connections.

• Avoid Overheating – Maintain adequate ventilation and ensure the module operates within the recommended temperature range.

• Update Firmware as Needed – Keep the controller’s firmware aligned with system requirements for best performance.

• Schedule Routine Cleaning – Gently remove dust from the module and backplane using dry compressed air to prevent buildup.

• Perform Regular Diagnostics – Run built-in diagnostic functions to detect communication errors early.