IC695ALG600 | GE 8-Channel Universal Analog Input Module

Why the IC695ALG600 Belongs in Your RX3i Upgrade Plan

Plant engineers running legacy GE Intelligent Platforms hardware face a familiar squeeze: spare parts dry up, but the process line still depends on proven RX3i control. The IC695ALG600 universal analog input module answers that problem directly. It is a PACSystems RX3i Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) module, formerly built by GE Intelligent Platforms and now manufactured under Emerson Automation. One module covers voltage, current, resistance, RTD and thermocouple signals, so a single spare replaces several dedicated input cards in your cabinet.

This is the core argument for an upgrade path built around the IC695ALG600: fewer unique part numbers on the shelf, faster changeover during a shutdown, and a shorter commissioning window because the wiring scheme stays familiar to your technicians.

What Signals Can This Module Accept?

Flexibility is the headline feature. The module carries eight general-purpose channels plus two Cold Junction Compensation (CJC) channels, arranged in two groups of four. Each group configures to any combination of input signals, which means you can mix measurement types inside one card instead of stocking separate voltage, current and temperature modules.

Supported Input Ranges

• Current: 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA, ±20 mA
• Voltage: ±50 mV, ±150 mV, 0–5 V, 1–5 V, 0–10 V, ±10 V
• Resistance: 0 to 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3000 or 4000 Ohms
• RTD sensors: PT 385 / 3916, N 618 / 672, NiFe 518, CU 426
• Thermocouples: B, C, E, J, K, N, R, S and T types

Comparison With Typical Analog Input Alternatives

For a maintenance store, that last row matters most. One universal card covers signal types that would otherwise need three separate spares.

Technical Specifications That Shape Installation

The module draws internal power at 350 milliamps at 3.3 Volts and 400 milliamps at 5 Volts, with a maximum power dissipation of 5.4 Watts. Plan backplane loading accordingly when you populate a rack.

Input filtering is configurable, with selectable frequencies of 8 Hertz, 12 Hertz, 16 Hertz, 40 Hertz, 200 Hertz and 1000 Hertz. Lower settings suit slow, noisy process signals; higher settings support faster measurement loops. Maximum RTD cable impedance is rated at 25 Ohms, so keep lead resistance within that limit for accurate temperature readings.

Environmental ratings are straightforward: operating temperature 0 to 60 degrees Celsius (32 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit), storage from -40 to 85 degrees Celsius (-40 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit).

Firmware and Software Requirements

• Minimum firmware version: 2.80 or later
• Configuration software: Proficy Machine Edition (PME) version 5.0 SP1A LD-PLC Hotfix 1 or later
• Backplane: RX3i universal backplane only — not remote or expansion backplanes
• Flash memory supports future upgrades

Where This Module Fits Best

Mixed-signal process skids. A skid with a 4–20 mA pressure transmitter, a 0–10 V position feedback signal and a Type K thermocouple can run all three from one card. That reduces cabinet space and terminal-block count.

Legacy RX3i refresh projects. Because the module configures through Proficy Machine Edition, engineers already familiar with the platform can migrate points without learning a new toolchain. During a planned outage, the configurable input filter helps match existing scan behavior instead of forcing a controls rewrite.

Temperature-heavy monitoring. With two CJC channels and support for nine thermocouple types plus multiple RTD curves, the module suits furnace, boiler and heat-exchanger monitoring where sensor types vary by loop.

Installation and Wiring Notes

Fit the module into an RX3i universal backplane slot. Signal termination requires one of four terminal blocks: Box-style IC694TBB032, Extended Box-style IC694TBB132, Spring-style IC694TBS032, or Extended Spring-style IC694TBS132. Extended versions are recommended because the larger outer cover accommodates thicker wire insulation and shield wires — a practical advantage in electrically noisy plants.

Three LEDs simplify commissioning: Module Status (Module OK), Field Status, and Terminal Block presence. Field Status flags a fault on at least one channel or an error on a terminal block. Terminal Block LED shows whether a block is seated. Use these indicators first when a channel reads incorrectly.

Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability

Inspect terminal blocks periodically for loose connections and shield integrity. Keep cabinet temperature inside the 0 to 60 degrees Celsius operating window, since heat shortens module life. Verify firmware stays at version 2.80 or later after any controller update. Because the module uses flash memory, plan upgrades during scheduled downtime rather than mid-production.

For a cost-benefit view: one universal module on the shelf can replace three dedicated spares, cutting inventory value while reducing mean time to repair. That is the strongest ROI argument for standardizing on this card.

Compatibility and Selection Checklist

Before ordering, confirm your rack is an RX3i universal backplane, your PME version meets the 5.0 SP1A LD-PLC Hotfix 1 requirement, and your controller firmware is 2.80 or later. Decide between Box-style and Spring-style termination, and choose extended blocks if your field wiring uses thick insulation or shields.

Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with SpareTechPLC before ordering, as this module was formerly manufactured by GE Intelligent Platforms and is now produced under Emerson Automation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix thermocouples and 4–20 mA signals on the same IC695ALG600?

Yes. The eight general-purpose channels sit in two groups of four, and each group configures to any combination of supported signal types, so temperature and current loops can share one module.

Does this module work in a remote or expansion backplane?

No. It installs only in the RX3i universal backplane. Remote and expansion backplanes are not supported.

Which terminal blocks do I need?

Choose IC694TBB032, IC694TBB132, IC694TBS032 or IC694TBS132. Extended versions are recommended for thicker insulation and shield wires.

What firmware and software versions are required?

Firmware version 2.80 or later, and Proficy Machine Edition version 5.0 SP1A LD-PLC Hotfix 1 or later for configuration.

How do I know if a channel has failed?

Check the Field Status LED, which indicates a fault on at least one channel or a terminal block error. The Terminal Block LED confirms whether a block is properly seated.