New Series 90-70 VME Modules
 
GE Fanuc is very excited to introduce a series of VME modules for the Series 90-70.  The modules are now open for order now and have a lead-time of approximately 30 to 40 days. With these new modules, it allows Series 90-70 to be more competitive in both performance and cost.  As an example the Reflective Memory module provides high speed networking that is deterministic and out performs anything on the PLC market.  With up to 64 discrete I/O on a module, cost can be reduced by as much as 50%.
 
The modules are treated like any VME module and are half the width of Series 90-70 I/O modules.

Single Board Computer (SBC) - An 300 MHz processor with 32-bit addressing and 64-bits data bus. This is an idea for application that requires additional processing such as process intensive calculation, operator interface, additional ports and other multiple processing applications. The SBC operate independent of the Series 90-70 logic controller, therefore it can process data in parallel to the logic controller. The super VGA controller on the board is able to provide a high resolution graphic and multimedia quality display. If connection to the network is needed, the embedded Ethernet 10BaseT and 100BaseTx options are supported.
 
Reflective Memory module - A high reliability, fiber-optic high-speed deterministic network that operates at 170 Mbaud. This is suitable for high-speed application such as rolling mils and assembly lines. It quickly and effectively transfers a large amount of data automatically to the devices on the network with no special protocol or software needed. These data are shared between up to 256 independent system (nodes) at rates up to 6.2 Mbytes per second software transparently.
 
High Density Analog I/O - A wide range of isolated and high-density VME analog I/O modules. There are six new analog input modules including an 8-channel RTD module and nine new analog output modules to satisfy your application. It has a built-in test to provide quick diagnostics that will check the circuitry of the module and narrows down the point of failure.
 
High Density Discrete I/O - A selection of four type discrete I/O modules. The discrete modules provide high-speed data to the controller. The 24Vdc input module is configurable to support Sequence-of-Events (SOE) and can store up to 3,000 events.
 
Contact local sales representative to learn more about these modules.
 
 
Frequent Questions and Answers
 
Q: Will the new modules work with existing Series 90-70 CPU’s?
 
A: Yes.  We will be providing a Parameterized C Block program that will allow the PLC to automatically handle the VME read and writes and map the data to the I/O table.  The customer will enter a few parameters during the configuration.  CIMPLICITY ME is required.
 
Q: Will the modules require VME Integrator rack?
 
A: No.  They will work with our standard rack but they will be required to be installed to the right of traditional Series 90-70 modules.  This is due to the pins on the side of the boards.  When using the VME Integrator rack the I/O capacity is almost doubled.
Q: Will I require the high capacity power supply?
 
A: Maybe.  It will depend on the loading of the system.  The data sheets document the loading of the modules.  CIMPLICITY ME will calculate the load.
 
Q: Can I place the new modules in expansion racks?
 
A: Yes when the local I/O bus is used (Bus Transmitter and Receiver).  Remote drops using Genius Bus is not supported.
 
Q:  How many Series 90-70 VME modules can I put in a rack?
 
A: That will depend on the loading of the power supply.
 
Q:  What can I do with the Single Board Computer (SBC)?
 
A:  The SBC has a lot of power and potential.  Currently the SBC doesn’t support mail so applications will be limited to just VME Read/Write.  The SBC does have a 100Meg Ethernet but you will not be able to Upload/Download programs from/to the PLC.  Eventually this will be supported.   The SBC can crunch data independent of the PLC.   Over the next couple of months we will be introducing various packages for the SBC to improve customer productivity.
 
Q:  Can I program over Reflective Memory?
 
A:  No.  Reflective Memory is a high speed, deterministic network that allows multiple controllers to share I/O memory. 
 
Q:  Can I configure the new Series 90-70 VME modules with VersaPro or CIMPLICITY ME?
 
A:  No.  Currently you will have to configure the modules as Foreign VME and enter the loading.  We will eventually add the modules to CIMPLICITY ME.