
( Brand: Ge Fanuc ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: IC693CHS399 ), ( Part Type: Module )
The **GE Fanuc IC693CHS399** is a high-performance, modular **CompactLogix 5560 Series** programmable logic controller (PLC) designed to deliver robust automation solutions for industrial applications requiring compact yet powerful processing capabilities. Part of the **CompactLogix family**, this controller is engineered to provide seamless integration with modern control systems while offering enhanced reliability, scalability, and flexibility for demanding environments. The **IC693CHS399** features a **399-point digital input/output (I/O) configuration**, combining **32 digital inputs (DI)** and **32 digital outputs (DO)**, along with **32 high-speed counter (HSC) inputs**, making it ideal for applications requiring precise timing, motion control, or high-speed data acquisition. Its **CompactLogix architecture** ensures compatibility with a wide range of **GE Fanuc s programming tools**, including **Studio 5000**, enabling engineers to develop, debug, and deploy control logic efficiently using intuitive software interfaces.
Built with **industrial-grade durability**, the **IC693CHS399** is housed in a **compact, DIN-rail-mountable chassis** that supports **hot-swappable modules**, minimizing downtime during maintenance or upgrades. The controller operates within a **wide temperature range (-25 C to 60 C)**, making it suitable for harsh manufacturing, process control, and automation environments where temperature fluctuations and mechanical stress are common. Its **backplane communication** ensures high-speed data transfer between modules, while the **integrated Ethernet port** facilitates seamless integration with **human-machine interfaces (HMIs), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and enterprise networks**, enabling real-time monitoring and remote diagnostics. The **IC693CHS399** also supports **deterministic communication protocols** such as **CIP (Common Industrial Protocol)** and **EtherNet/IP**, further enhancing its ability to coordinate with other automation devices in a distributed control network.
Programming flexibility is a key strength of this PLC, as it supports **structured text (ST), ladder logic (LD), function block diagrams (FBD), and sequential function charts (SFC)**, catering to engineers with varying levels of expertise. The **Studio 5000 software suite** provides a comprehensive development environment, including **tag-based programming, real-time simulation, and offline debugging**, which streamlines the development process and reduces commissioning time. Additionally, the **IC693CHS399** incorporates **enhanced security features**, such as **role-based access control and encrypted communication**, to protect critical control logic from unauthorized access or cyber threats. Its **low-power consumption** and **efficient cooling design** contribute to operational cost savings, while the **modular expansion capabilities** allow users to scale their control system as application requirements evolve.
Whether deployed in **discrete manufacturing, packaging, material handling, or process automation**, the **GE Fanuc IC693CHS399** delivers a balance of **performance, reliability, and ease of use**, making it a versatile choice for engineers seeking a **compact yet powerful PLC** that can handle complex control tasks with precision. Its **backward and forward compatibility** with other **CompactLogix and ControlLogix** series ensures long-term investment protection, while its **industry-standard interfaces** ensure seamless integration into existing or future automation architectures. By combining **high-speed I/O, robust processing, and advanced communication**, the **IC693CHS399** stands as a dependable solution for industries where efficiency, accuracy, and adaptability are paramount.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Used GE Fanuc IC693CHS399 PLC**
The **GE Fanuc IC693CHS399** is a high-end programmable logic controller (PLC) from the **Series 90-30**, known for its reliability, speed, and advanced features. However, purchasing a used unit requires careful consideration due to potential risks and benefits.
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### **Pros of Buying a Used IC693CHS399**
1. **Cost Savings**
- New IC693CHS399 units are expensive (often $10,000 $20,000 depending on configuration). A used unit can be acquired for **50 70% less**, making it a budget-friendly alternative for maintenance or legacy system upgrades.
2. **Proven Reliability**
- The **Series 90-30** is a well-established platform with decades of industrial use. Many units have operated reliably for **15 25 years** in demanding environments, suggesting durability if properly maintained.
3. **Compatibility with Legacy Systems**
- If your facility already uses **GE Fanuc PLCs, HMI, or drives**, a used IC693CHS399 integrates seamlessly without requiring costly protocol conversions (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, or Ethernet/IP bridges).
4. **High Performance for Control Applications**
- The **CHS399** is a **high-speed, high-end model** with:- **32-bit architecture** (faster processing than older 16-bit PLCs).
- **Up to 16 analog inputs/outputs** (configurable via modules).
- **High-speed counter modules** (useful for motion control, encoder input, and pulse counting).
- **Built-in Ethernet and serial communication** (supports **DNP3, Modbus TCP, and proprietary GE protocols**).
- Suitable for **complex automation, motion control, and process industries** (e.g., packaging, material handling, or chemical processing).
5. **Easier to Find Than Newer Models**
- GE Fanuc discontinued the **Series 90-30** in favor of **Series 90-70** and **VersaMax**, but used units are still widely available through **auctions, industrial surplus dealers, or eBay**. This makes sourcing easier than for newer, discontinued models.
6. **Potential for Customization**
- Some used units may come with **extra modules, memory cards, or documentation**, allowing for immediate integration into existing setups.
7. **Good for Training and Development**
- If you re learning **GE Fanuc PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text)**, a used unit provides a **real-world platform** for hands-on practice without the cost of a new system.
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### **Cons of Buying a Used IC693CHS399**
1. **Lack of Warranty and Support**
- Used units **typically come without warranty**, meaning any **hardware failure, firmware corruption, or programming issues** will be your responsibility.
- GE Fanuc **no longer provides official support** for the Series 90-30, so troubleshooting may require **third-party vendors, forums, or legacy documentation**.
2. **Potential for Wear and Tear**
- Even if the unit appears functional, **internal components (power supply, CPU board, memory modules) may degrade over time**. Common issues include:
- **Failed RAM or flash memory** (leading to lost programs or crashes).
- **Worn-out power supplies** (common in older industrial devices).
- **Corroded or damaged connectors** (if stored in harsh environments).
- **No way to guarantee full functionality** without thorough testing.
3. **Obsolete or Difficult-to-Find Parts**
- Replacement **modules, cables, or firmware** may be **discontinued or hard to source**.
- Some **proprietary GE Fanuc components** (e.g., certain I/O modules) may require **specialized distributors** or **eBay searches**.
- **Firmware updates** (if needed) may no longer be available from GE.
4. **Programming and Documentation Challenges**
- **Original programming documentation** may be missing, forcing reliance on **reverse-engineered or outdated manuals**.
- **Compatibility issues** with modern **SCADA, HMI, or programming software** (e.g., **GE s newer Studio 5000** may not fully support Series 90-30).
- **Legacy programming languages** (e.g., **Ladder Logic in older versions**) may require **conversion efforts** if integrating with newer systems.
5. **Security Risks**
- Older PLCs **lack modern cybersecurity features** (e.g., no built-in firewall, weak encryption, or vulnerability patches).
- If connected to a **network, they pose a higher risk** of **hacking or malware** compared to newer, more secure PLCs.
6. **Limited Longevity**
- While the **Series 90-30 is robust**, **modern PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7-1500, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix)** offer **better performance, scalability, and integration with IoT/Industry 4.0**.
- If your application **requires future expansion**, a used IC693CHS399 may **limit scalability**.
7. **Hidden Costs**
- **Testing and validation** (running diagnostics, restoring backups, or reconfiguring I/O) may take **time and additional labor**.
- If the unit **fails shortly after purchase**, you may incur **replacement or repair costs** without warranty protection.
8. **Environmental and Compliance Risks**
- Older PLCs may **not meet modern safety or environmental standards** (e.g., **RoHS compliance, EMC regulations**).
- If the unit was **exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or electrical surges**, it may have **hidden damage**.
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### **Conclusion**
Buying a **used GE Fanuc IC693CHS399 PLC** can be a **cost-effective solution** if:You **need a high-performance PLC for a legacy system** where compatibility is critical.
You **have the expertise to test, validate, and maintain** the unit.
You **accept the risks of no warranty and potential obsolescence**.
The **application does not require cutting-edge features** (e.g., advanced motion control, cloud integration).
However, it is **not ideal** if:You **require long-term support, warranties, or modern security features**.
The unit **has no documentation or history of maintenance**.
You **plan to use it in a mission-critical application** where downtime is unacceptable.
You **intend to integrate it with newer SCADA/HMI systems** that may lack full compatibility.
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### **Recommendation**
1. **If You Must Buy Used:**- **Purchase from a reputable industrial surplus dealer** (e.g., **Grainger, Moxa, or specialized PLC resellers**) rather than an individual seller.
- **Request full documentation** (manuals, firmware versions, maintenance logs).
- **Test thoroughly** before deployment:- Run **diagnostics** (check CPU health, memory, I/O communication).
- **Restore a known-good backup** if available.
- **Benchmark performance** against your application requirements.
- **Consider a warranty extension** (some dealers offer limited warranties for used PLCs).
- **Budget for potential replacements** in case of failure.
2. **If Possible, Consider Alternatives:**- **Newer GE Fanuc PLCs (Series 90-70 or VersaMax)** If budget allows, these offer **better support, security, and scalability**.
- **Used Siemens or Allen-Bradley PLCs** Some alternatives (e.g., **Siemens S7-300, AB Micro800**) may be easier to source and support.
- **Refurbished Units** Some distributors offer **certified refurbished PLCs** with warranties.
- **Renting or Leasing** If unsure about long-term needs, **renting a new PLC** may be a safer option.
3. **For Long-Term Reliability:** - If the **IC693CHS399 is critical to your operation**, **prioritize a unit with:**- **Documented maintenance history**.
- **Working backup power supply and memory**.
- **Tested I/O modules** (especially if analog or high-speed counters are needed).
- **Pair it with a backup PLC** (even a smaller model) to reduce downtime risk.
### **Final Verdict**
The **IC693CHS399 is a powerful PLC** that can be a **smart purchase for budget-conscious buyers** who understand its limitations. However, **it is not a "set-and-forget" solution** it demands **due diligence in sourcing, testing, and maintenance**. If your application **does not require cutting-edge features and you can mitigate risks**, a used unit can be a **cost-effective upgrade**. Otherwise, **evaluating newer or alternative PLCs may be the safer long-term choice**.
FANUC IC693CHS399 / USED DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, MODULAR CPU BASEPLATE, 5 SLOT, 25-PIN FEMALE D-TYPE I/O BUS EXPANSION CONNECTOR, UNABLE TO STAND ALONE, MUST BE CONNECTED A SYSTEM WITH CPU, AND REMOTE BASEPLATE. Call to use a shipping service other than the ones listed. Packaging and Handling: Items are safely ESD packaged in custom shipping cartons for protection. All products are guaranteed to be working but may show signs of use if purchasing a used product.
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