Technical Specifications

FAQ

1. What is the primary function of the GE IC698PSD300 Power Supply Module?

The IC698PSD300 is a high-capacity DC power supply designed for the GE PACSystems RX7i platform. It accepts a nominal 24 VDC input and converts it into the regulated DC voltage rails required by modules installed in the RX7i rack. The module provides +5 VDC, +12 VDC, and -12 VDC outputs, with a total rated output capacity of up to 300 W. In addition to supplying operating power, it provides logic-level sequencing signals to the RX7i backplane, helping coordinate power-up and power-down behavior between the power supply and connected modules. Its protection functions also help protect the PLC system against overvoltage and overcurrent conditions.

2. What input voltage does the IC698PSD300 require?

The IC698PSD300 has a nominal input rating of 24 VDC and accepts an input voltage range of 18 to 30 VDC. This makes it suitable for industrial control systems that use a regulated 24 VDC distribution system, including installations where DC power is supplied from an industrial power supply or battery-backed DC system. When selecting the external power source, the available voltage should remain within the specified operating range under both normal and transient conditions. The input wiring and protective devices should also be appropriately rated because the module can experience a significant inrush current during a cold start.

3. What output voltages and currents are available from the IC698PSD300?

The IC698PSD300 provides three regulated output rails for the RX7i backplane. The +5 VDC output supports up to 50 A, the +12 VDC output supports up to 10 A, and the -12 VDC output supports up to 4 A. The combined output power of all three rails must not exceed the module’s 300 W maximum rating. These voltage rails supply different requirements within the RX7i control system, so the total load of the CPU, I/O modules, communication modules, and other rack components must be calculated before selecting the power supply. The load should remain within both the individual output limits and the total power capacity.

4. Does the IC698PSD300 require forced-air cooling?

Yes. Forced-air cooling is required for operation at the full rated capacity of 300 W. The RX7i system uses a fan tray arrangement to provide cooling air through the power supply. The IC698PSD300 also incorporates airflow monitoring, allowing the power supply to respond to conditions such as fan failure or blocked airflow. If insufficient airflow causes the internal temperature to rise beyond the permitted operating condition, the module can shut down its outputs and indicate an over-temperature condition. During maintenance, the fan tray, airflow path, and surrounding cabinet ventilation should therefore be inspected regularly to prevent thermal problems and unexpected PLC shutdowns.

5. What protection functions are included in the IC698PSD300?

The IC698PSD300 incorporates several protection functions designed to protect the power supply and connected RX7i modules. These include overvoltage protection, electronic overcurrent protection, and over-temperature protection. The power supply also monitors airflow because adequate cooling is essential when operating at high load levels. If an airflow problem causes the internal temperature to reach a critical condition, the power supply can disable its outputs and indicate the fault condition. These protective functions are particularly important in industrial applications where a power-supply fault could affect the operation of the entire PLC rack. Correct cabinet ventilation and appropriate load planning remain essential even though the module includes built-in protection.

6. How should the IC698PSD300 be installed in an RX7i rack?

The IC698PSD300 is installed directly into the leftmost Slot 0 position of a compatible PACSystems RX7i rack. Before installation, the rack should be powered down and all relevant external power sources should be isolated in accordance with the site’s electrical safety procedures. The module should be correctly aligned with the rack guides and firmly connected to the backplane connector. After installation, the 24 VDC input should be connected with correct polarity and appropriate wiring. The rack fan and airflow arrangement should also be checked, particularly when the system is expected to operate near the maximum power rating. Once the system is energized, the power-status indicators should be checked before placing the PLC into normal operation.

7. What should be checked if the IC698PSD300 outputs are not working correctly?

Troubleshooting should begin by checking the external 24 VDC input and confirming that it remains within the specified 18–30 VDC range. Next, inspect the input wiring, polarity, protective devices, and terminal connections. The module’s status indicators should then be checked for Output OK or over-temperature conditions. If the power supply is heavily loaded, calculate the total current demand on the +5 VDC, +12 VDC, and -12 VDC rails and verify that neither the individual output limits nor the 300 W total capacity has been exceeded. The fan tray and airflow path should also be inspected for blocked vents, fan failure, or excessive cabinet temperature. If the input and cooling conditions are normal but one or more output rails remain outside specification, the power supply itself may require further testing or replacement.

8. What should be considered when commissioning the IC698PSD300 in an RX7i system?

During commissioning, first verify that the IC698PSD300 is installed in the correct RX7i rack position and that the external supply provides stable 24 VDC within the specified input range. The total power demand of all modules in the rack should be calculated to ensure that the 300 W maximum output rating and individual rail current limits are not exceeded. Check the +5 VDC, +12 VDC, and -12 VDC output conditions and confirm that the power-status indicators show normal operation. The forced-air cooling system should also be operating correctly, with no blocked airflow around the rack or fan tray. After the PLC rack is energized, monitor the power supply during startup and under normal operating load. Any over-temperature, airflow, overcurrent, or output-voltage abnormality should be investigated before the system is placed into continuous production service.