GE Series 90-30 PLC - Reducing PLC Module Count by Using Other GE Fanuc Products

System Design and Layout
GFK-0356Q Chapter 12 System Design 12-7
12
Reducing PLC Module Count by Using Other GE Fanuc Products
If system size limitations (more than 79 modules are needed) are a problem in a system using
Remote racks, a possible solution could be the use of GE Fanuc Genius Blocks, Field Control, or
VersaMax products. These distributed I/O devices can be used instead of Remote racks in remote
locations in some cases, and their use would not add to the Series 90-30 module count.
Genius Blocks
These are intelligent distributed I/O blocks that are panel-mounted at the point of use. They
communicate with a Genius Bus Controller (GBC) module in the PLC via a shielded, twisted-pair
cable. They are not included in the PLC module count, but do require I/O memory allocation. A
single GBC module in a PLC rack can control up to 31 Genius Blocks. Genius Blocks come in
discrete and analog I/O, high speed counter, RTD, and thermocouple interface types. For more
information on using Genius Blocks, see GEK-90486-1,
Genius I/O System and Communications
User’s Manual
, and GEK-90486-2,
Genius I/O Discrete and Analog Blocks User’s Manual.
Field Control
These are intelligent distributed I/O units that mount at the point-of-use on a 35mm x 7.5mm DIN-
rail. They can communicate over Genius, FIP, or Profibus buses. They are not included in the
PLC module count, but do require I/O memory allocation. A Field Control unit consists of a Bus
Interface Unit (BIU) that interfaces to the applicable bus, from one to eight I/O modules, and
cabling. I/O modules come in various discrete, analog, and RTD types. A local logic processor
module (MFP) is also available. For further information on Field Control, see the following:
 GFK-0826,
Field Control Distributed I/O and Control System I/O Modules User’s Manual
 GFK-0825,
Field Control Genius Bus Interface Unit User’s Manual
 GFK-1175,
Field Control FIP Bus Interface Unit User’s Manual
 GFK-1291,
Field Control Profibus Bus Interface Unit User’s Manual
VersaMax
VersaMax I/O modules can be used as distributed I/O, communicating with a Series 90-30 PLC
over one of three bus types: Genius, Profibus, or Device Net. This arrangement would require an
Option module for the desired bus type in the Series 90-30 PLC as well as the applicable Network
Interface Module in the VersaMax system. For more information on the VersaMax products,
please see GFK-1504,
VersaMax Modules, Power Supplies, and Carriers Manual.