General Electric IC693CBL316 Cable

The GE IC693CBL316 is a high-quality Remote I/O Expansion Cable engineered specifically for use with the GE Fanuc Series 90-30 programmable logic controller (PLC) systems. As part of the I/O expansion infrastructure, this 22-foot (approximately 6.7 meters) cable allows for effective communication between the CPU base rack and remote I/O racks, enabling the physical extension of control systems without compromising reliability or speed.

Constructed for industrial durability and electromagnetic shielding, the IC693CBL316 cable provides robust performance in demanding environments, ensuring consistent signal transmission over longer distances. This factory-terminated cable helps streamline system installations by removing the need for custom cabling, reducing setup time and ensuring compatibility out of the box.

It is an essential component in distributed control applications that require spatially separated rack configurations while maintaining centralized PLC management.

Technical Specifications

Product Applications

The GE IC693CBL316 cable is designed for scenarios where I/O racks need to be located at a distance from the main controller, yet maintain high-speed and reliable communication. This is particularly useful in large-scale industrial automation setups where modularity and distributed control are critical.

Common application areas include:

• Manufacturing production lines where multiple stations are controlled by a centralized PLC.

• Material handling systems with conveyor lines or automated cranes that span large areas.

• Wastewater treatment facilities requiring remote I/O for sensors and pumps in field locations.

• Food and beverage processing plants with distributed machinery.

• Warehouse automation systems such as robotic picking and sorting units.

• Power generation and distribution control rooms, integrating distant sensor racks.

Product Advantages

• Extended Reach

  With a length of 1 meter, it enables flexible placement of remote I/O racks across wider industrial floorplans.

• Plug-and-Play Design

  Comes with pre-installed connectors to reduce installation errors and speed up system setup.

• Noise Resistance

  Shielded construction reduces electromagnetic interference, ensuring signal integrity even in electrically noisy environments.

• Durable Industrial Construction

  Built to withstand wear, vibration, and physical stress typical in factory and field environments.

• Compatibility Guaranteed

  Optimized for GE Fanuc Series 90-30 systems with full integration support.

• Low Maintenance

  No special upkeep is required; designed for long-term reliability once installed.

• Standard Compliance

  Certified for use in environments with strict safety and regulatory standards.

• Simplifies System Expansion

  Ideal for upgrading existing PLC systems with additional remote I/O capacity.

• Supports Scalable Architecture

  Easily fits into scalable automation systems without redesigning control logic.

• Improves System Organization

  Helps in reducing cabinet clutter and optimizing wiring layout by allowing remote placement of I/O modules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the exact length of the IC693CBL316 cable?

   It is 1 meter, making it suitable for mid-to-long range rack expansion.

2. Is this cable compatible with any system outside GE Fanuc Series 90-30?

   No, it is purpose-built for the GE Fanuc Series 90-30 PLC family.

3. Does the cable require any configuration after installation?

   No configuration is required; once connected, the system will automatically detect the remote rack.

4. What is the proper way to install this cable?

   Connect securely to the CPU rack and the expansion rack, avoiding tight bends or proximity to high-voltage wiring.

5. Can the cable be routed through flexible conduit?

   Yes, the cable’s medium flexibility allows it to be routed through standard industrial conduits.

6. Is the IC693CBL316 safe to use in high-humidity environments?

   Yes, it supports up to 95% non-condensing humidity, but it must be kept dry for long-term performance.

7. Can I use more than one IC693CBL316 in the same system?

   Yes, each expansion rack can have its own cable connection to the CPU rack as supported by the system design.

8. What if I accidentally bend the cable too tightly?

   Sharp bends may damage the internal shielding or conductors. Avoid any radius tighter than 5x the cable diameter.

9. Is there a specific direction the cable must be connected?

   Yes, one end connects to the CPU rack and the other to the expansion rack—match ports as per system documentation.

10. How do I identify a failing or damaged expansion cable?

    Symptoms include loss of communication with the remote rack, I/O module faults, or intermittent PLC behavior.