Technical Specifications

FAQ

1. What is the main purpose of the GE IC695ACC310 Blank Slot Filler Module?
The IC695ACC310 is a passive blank module designed to cover an unused position in a GE PACSystems RX3i rack. It does not perform PLC processing, signal acquisition, output control, or network communication. Its primary purpose is mechanical protection. By closing an unused slot, it helps reduce the exposure of the rack and internal electronics to dust, dirt, oil, moisture, conductive particles, and accidental physical contact. It is also useful for maintaining a clean and organized control cabinet when the rack contains positions reserved for future expansion.

2. Does the IC695ACC310 communicate with the RX3i backplane?
No. The IC695ACC310 does not contain active electronic circuitry and does not communicate with the RX3i backplane. It does not exchange data with the CPU or other I/O modules, and it does not consume backplane communication bandwidth. Because it is a mechanical filler rather than an electronic module, it has no I/O addresses, communication parameters, diagnostic data, or PLC operating functions associated with it.

3. Does the IC695ACC310 require PLC programming or hardware configuration?
No. The blank slot filler does not need to be added as an active module in the PLC configuration. There are no input or output channels to configure and no communication parameters to enter. Once the filler is mechanically installed into a suitable vacant slot, it performs its intended function without any software configuration. This is particularly convenient for RX3i systems where one or more rack positions are intentionally left unused for future system expansion.

4. Where can the IC695ACC310 be installed in an RX3i system?
The IC695ACC310 should be installed in a compatible vacant module position where an active I/O or option module is not currently required. The exact available positions depend on the specific RX3i backplane being used because certain positions can be reserved for CPUs, power supplies, expansion functions, or other dedicated hardware. Before installation, the rack layout should therefore be checked to ensure that the selected position is an appropriate location for a blank filler.

5. Why is it important to cover an unused PLC rack slot?
An uncovered slot can leave part of the rack assembly exposed to the surrounding industrial environment. Dust, metal particles, oil mist, water splashes, and other contaminants can enter the exposed area and potentially increase maintenance requirements or create long-term reliability concerns. The IC695ACC310 provides a physical barrier over the unused position. It also prevents accidental contact with exposed areas and makes it clear that the position is intentionally unused rather than missing a required module.

6. Can the IC695ACC310 be used when an RX3i system is planned for future expansion?
Yes. This is one of the practical applications of a blank slot filler. An unused rack position can be covered with the IC695ACC310 until an additional I/O, communication, or option module is required. When the system is expanded, the filler can be removed and replaced with the appropriate module. The newly installed electronic module will then need to be configured and commissioned according to the actual RX3i system architecture, while the filler itself requires no software setup.

7. Does the IC695ACC310 consume backplane power or reduce the available I/O capacity?
No. The IC695ACC310 is a passive mechanical component and does not have an electronic backplane current requirement. It therefore does not consume the available power budget in the same manner as an I/O, communication, CPU, or intelligent option module. It also does not create additional I/O points or occupy PLC configuration resources as an active device. Its effect on the control system is essentially mechanical protection of the vacant rack position.

8. What should be checked when installing or replacing an IC695ACC310?
Before installation, confirm that the selected rack position is compatible with the filler and is not a position reserved for a CPU, power supply, expansion interface, or another dedicated module. Inspect the rack and mounting area for dirt, damaged guides, or mechanical obstruction. Install the filler securely and make sure it sits correctly in the rack. If the filler is being removed so that an active module can be installed, the replacement module should be checked for part number, rack compatibility, power requirements, wiring, and software configuration. If maintenance is performed while the rack is energized, the specific RX3i backplane and approved hot-removal or hot-insertion procedure must be followed.