Description
GE IC697CMM711 Multi-functional Communication Coprocessor
The IC697CMM711 is a single-slot communication coprocessor module in the GE Fanuc Emerson Series 90-70 PLC system. Here is its detailed introduction:
Hardware Features:
- Processor: Equipped with a 12MHz 80C186 microprocessor, which provides high-speed data transmission capability to ensure efficient data processing and transmission.
- Communication Interfaces: Features two RS-422/RS-485 or RS-232 serial ports, enabling easy connection with various devices.
- Power Supply Voltage: Available in two options, 5VDC or 12VDC, depending on the specific model.
- Dimensions: Approximately 170mm x 105mm x 32mm. The single-slot design makes it easy to integrate into existing automation systems.
- Status Indication: Equipped with three status LEDs, through which the module’s status (such as power status, serial port activity, etc.) can be monitored.
Communication Functions:
- Supported Protocols: Supports multiple communication protocols, including CCM, RTU, SNP, SNPX, Modbus, etc. It can also support some functions of protocols like Ethernet/IP, DF1, and DeviceNet.
- Communication Modes: The two serial ports can be flexibly configured into 9 combinations of communication modes, such as CCM/CCM, CCM/RTU, RTU/CCM, RTU/RTU, SNP/SNP, SNP/CCM, CCM/SNP, SNP/RTU, and RTU/SNP. Both ports can communicate simultaneously, with a maximum communication rate of 19.2kbps for a single port.
Functional Characteristics:
- Flexible Configuration: No jumpers are required; multiple communication mode combinations can be achieved through software configuration, facilitating adaptation to different industrial application requirements.
- High Reliability: No battery is needed, reducing potential failure points. Designed for industrial environments, it has excellent anti-interference ability and stability. The operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C, and the humidity range is 5% to 95% (non-condensing).
- Versatile Functions: It can enable communication between PLCs and other devices such as frequency converters, touch screens, and host computers, thereby expanding PLC functions, realizing data collection, remote monitoring, etc., and can also participate in building PLC control networks.

Typical Application Scenarios:
Cross-System Data Exchange Hub
- Multi-PLC Collaborative Control
In large-scale production lines, it connects multiple GE 90-70 PLCs or PLCs of other brands (such as Siemens, ABB) to achieve master-slave station data synchronization through Modbus or SNP protocols. For example, in an automobile assembly line, the main PLC communicates with PLCs at each workstation through the CMM711 to coordinate the actions of robotic arms and conveyor lines. - Hybrid Equipment Integration
It connects devices with different communication protocols simultaneously, such as:- Serial Port 1 is configured as Modbus RTU to connect to Schneider frequency converters;
- Serial Port 2 is configured as SNP to connect to GE human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
This realizes centralized collection and control of parameters such as motor speed and temperature.
Remote Monitoring and SCADA Systems
- Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Gateway
It connects to on-site PLCs through the RS-485 port of the CMM711, and then forwards data to cloud platforms through third-party modules (such as DTUs). For example, in distributed pump station monitoring, the CMM711 aggregates pressure and flow data from each station and sends it to the SCADA center. - Remote Programming and Maintenance
Remote programming of PLCs is realized through dial-up modems or Ethernet using the SNP protocol. In oil pipeline monitoring systems, engineers can remotely upload programs or modify PID parameters through the CMM711.
Process Control Systems
- DCS System Integration
In chemical reactor control, the CMM711 serves as a communication bridge for the 90-70 PLC:- Serial Port 1 communicates with Emerson temperature transmitters through Modbus;
- Serial Port 2 connects to Honeywell flow controllers through the DF1 protocol.
This realizes closed-loop PID control of temperature and flow.
- Power Automation
In substation integrated automation systems, the CMM711 is configured with the IEC 60870-5-101 protocol to communicate with protection devices, collect current and voltage data in real-time, and upload them to the dispatching center.
Distributed I/O Expansion
- Remote I/O Rack Communication
When the distance between the main PLC and the remote I/O rack exceeds 100 meters, the CMM711 connects to remote communication modules (such as IC697BEM733) through the RS-485 port to expand the number of I/O points. For example, in a mine conveyor belt control system, the main station establishes a communication link with the remote I/O 200 meters away through the CMM711.
Device Networking and Protocol Conversion
- Modbus to Ethernet/IP
In the renovation of old equipment, the CMM711 acts as a protocol converter:- Serial Port 1 collects data from Mitsubishi frequency converters through Modbus RTU;
- Serial Port 2 transmits data to Rockwell PLCs through Ethernet/IP.
This realizes seamless integration of devices from different brands.
- Dual-Machine Hot Standby Communication Link
In redundant PLC systems, two CMM711s are configured as main and standby links respectively to synchronize data through the CCM protocol. When the main link fails, the standby link automatically takes over to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the continuous caster control system in steel plants.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Connection
- Touch Screen Data Interaction
It connects to Pro-face or Siemens touch screens through the RS-232 port to enable operators to set parameters and monitor the status of PLCs. For example, in food packaging machines, operators adjust packaging speeds through the HMI, and the CMM711 transmits the instructions to the PLC for execution.
Special Industry Applications
- Rail Transit Signal Systems
In subway ATS (Automatic Train Supervision) systems, the CMM711 connects to interlocking devices through the SNP protocol to transmit real-time train position information, and ensures reliable data transmission through redundant communication links. - Pharmaceutical Industry Compliance Systems
In GMP-certified pharmaceutical production lines, the CMM711 supports communication with weighing sensors and temperature recorders via the Modbus protocol, recording production data for audit trails.







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