The IC687BEM731 is a Genius Bus Controller manufactured by GE Automation and Controls and is compatible with Series 90-70 or PACSystems RX7i systems. The IC687BEM731 is capable of interfacing with up to 31 additional devices on a single Genius communications bus. This device occupies a single slot on a PLC backplane.
Through the Genius bus, the IC687BEM731 is compatible with several types of devices, including Genius I/O blocks, various other programmable logic controllers, Remote Drops for Series 90-70 systems, Versamax I/O stations, Field Control stations, and several other host devices requiring datagrams and Global data for communications.
Select features of this device include I/O diagnostics, support for redundant systems, datagrams and Global data transmissions, a connection port for a portable monitor, and a serial interface port. With the maximum number of devices connected to the Genius bus, communication channel rates are measured at 153.6 kbaud. The maximum bus length supported is 7500 feet; however, communication rates decrease as bus length increases. The following bus types are supported by the IC687BEM731: Daisy-chain, shielded twisted pair (STP) cables, Twinax cables, and possibly fiber optic cables.
The IC687BEM731 can be installed at any location on the Genius bus; however, performance is improved if the device placement matches the programmed device number. Device numbers for bus controllers are typically 31. To install this device, power down the rack, securely fasten the controller to the backplane, and attach the various bus connections.
To configure the IC687BEM731, use the Machine Edition Logic Developer 5.0 software with the second service pack or later. Note: Each device on the Genius bus must be programmed separately either by programming software or Write Configuration COMMREQS.