GE IC698CHS017B | Industrial Rack, Traceable Asset

Description

1. GE IC698CHS017B | Industrial Rack, Traceable Asset

Unboxing & Physical Snapshot

• Brand & Model: GE Fanuc / GE Intelligent Platforms IC698CHS017B
• Product Type: PACSystems RX7i 17-Slot Rear Mount Rack
• Primary Function: PLC system chassis providing VME64 backplane connectivity for RX7i CPU, power supply, I/O, and compatible VME modules.
• Physical Dimensions (W × H × D): Approximately 483 × 283 × 190 mm (19.0 × 11.15 × 7.5 in.)
• Estimated Shipping Weight: Approximately 7.3 kg (16 lb) with packaging.
• What’s in the Box:
  • GE IC698CHS017B RX7i rack assembly
  • Integrated VME64 backplane
  • Rack side panels with grounding studs
  • Slot identification labels
  • Mounting hardware when supplied with original inventory
  • Protective packaging suitable for ESD-sensitive storage

Product Introduction

Structure B — Architecture Hook

The GE IC698CHS017B forms the mechanical and electrical foundation of an RX7i control system. It mounts inside the control cabinet as a rear-access rack, providing the backplane structure where the CPU, power supply, and I/O modules communicate. Slot alignment matters here. The rack connectors are spaced at 0.8-inch intervals, allowing single-width and double-width modules to be installed according to system design requirements.

This rack is not an active processing module, but it directly affects system availability because every controller card depends on clean backplane connections. The metal frame, grounding studs, and connector assemblies require careful handling during storage and installation (especially in legacy plants where replacement racks may remain on shelves for many years). Inspect the backplane pins, mounting surfaces, and chassis hardware before commissioning.

Core Technical Specifications

GE IC698CHS017B

The IC698CHS017B is a passive rack assembly; memory, firmware, and processing capability reside in installed CPU and intelligent modules.

? Global Compliance & Industry Certifications

Expected regulatory considerations for this industrial rack assembly include:

• CE Mark compliance when installed as part of a properly configured RX7i system.
• UL/cUL industrial control equipment evaluation may apply depending on the complete PLC installation.
• RoHS compliance depends on manufacturing date and revision.
• IEC industrial EMC requirements are generally evaluated at the system level.
• ATEX/IECEx certification is not normally a rack-level approval; hazardous-area compliance depends on the complete enclosure and protection method.
• Marine approvals (DNV GL) apply only to specifically qualified system configurations.

The rack is classified as open equipment and requires installation inside an appropriate protective enclosure. Proper cabinet design, grounding, and wiring practices are essential for maintaining compliance during inspections.

Verify specific lot certifications with OEM.

? Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide

Store the in a dry, controlled warehouse environment with the backplane connectors protected from dust and oxidation. Keep the assembly inside anti-static packaging when possible, even though the rack itself is passive hardware.

Maintain humidity below 60% RH. The critical storage concern is connector surface condition, not firmware aging. Oxidized VME contacts can create intermittent faults that are difficult to diagnose after installation.

Before deployment, inspect every connector slot, grounding stud, mounting flange, and rear wiring interface. Check for bent connector pins, corrosion marks, and mechanical deformation caused by improper pallet stacking (a common issue with large rack assemblies stored horizontally).

Physical Installation Prerequisites

• Install inside a protective enclosure rated appropriately for industrial control equipment.
• Mount in the specified rear-access orientation.
• Provide cabinet airflow clearance of approximately 150 mm (6 in.) around required cooling areas where practical.
• Leave approximately 230 mm (9 in.) spacing between racks if fan assemblies require service access.
• Connect the rack ground studs to protective earth using the recommended grounding conductor arrangement.
• Use correct mounting hardware to prevent chassis movement under vibration.
• Verify backplane alignment before inserting CPU or I/O modules.

The rack should never carry mechanical load from installed modules during shipping. Remove installed cards before transporting a populated chassis.

Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)

Q1. What HS Tariff Code is commonly used for the ?

A: Industrial PLC racks are commonly evaluated under HS classifications related to electrical control equipment, often within the 8537 heading. Some suppliers list 8537109070 for this rack category, but final classification depends on the importing country’s customs rules and product description.

Q2. Does Country of Origin affect replacement documentation?

A: Yes. COO affects customs treatment, government contract requirements, and asset traceability. Maintain the original label, serial information, supplier documentation, and inspection records with the spare inventory file.

Q3. Should freight insurance be included for this rack?

A: Recommended. The chassis frame is durable, but the VME backplane connectors are precision components. Shock loading during transport can damage connector alignment without visible external marks.

Q4. Does the include firmware or require firmware loading?

A: No. This rack assembly does not contain application firmware or controller memory. Firmware resides in the installed RX7i CPU module. Verify the CPU revision and project configuration before returning the system to operation.