GE IC695PMM335 Retrofit-Ready Motion Module for RX3i Systems

GE IC695PMM335 Retrofit-Ready Motion Module for RX3i Control Systems

The GE IC695PMM335 is a 4-Axis SERCOS Motion Control Module designed for the GE PACSystems RX3i platform. As legacy motion systems age and OEM support windows close, the IC695PMM335 has become a critical retrofit component for engineers tasked with modernizing servo-driven production lines, CNC-integrated packaging equipment, and multi-axis coordinated motion applications — without the cost and risk of a full control system replacement.

Whether you are replacing a failed unit on an active line, upgrading from an earlier IC693 Series motion module, or migrating a legacy Series 90-30 motion architecture to the RX3i backplane, the IC695PMM335 provides a proven, drop-in compatible upgrade path. Its SERCOS II fiber-optic interface maintains compatibility with existing servo drives and motor feedback loops, preserving your original motion program logic and minimizing re-commissioning time.

Upgrade Compatibility Table

Retrofit Planning for Existing Automation Systems

A successful IC695PMM335 retrofit begins well before the module arrives on site. Engineers should start by auditing the existing backplane configuration. The RX3i universal backplane — whether a 7-slot IC695CHS007, 12-slot IC695CHS012, or 16-slot IC695CHS016 — must have an available slot with adequate power budget. The IC695PSA040 or IC695PSD040 power supply modules should be verified for sufficient wattage headroom, as adding a motion module increases the backplane load. If the existing power supply is already near capacity, a power supply upgrade should be planned concurrently.

On the communications side, the IC695PMM335 uses a SERCOS II fiber-optic ring. Existing fiber cables, connectors, and servo drive SERCOS ports should be inspected for continuity and cleanliness before the new module is seated. Servo drives such as those in the Fanuc αi Series, Bosch Rexroth IndraDrive, or Kollmorgen AKD families that were previously connected to an IC693DSM314 or IC693APU305 can typically be re-integrated with minimal reconfiguration, provided the SERCOS baud rate and cycle time settings are matched in PME.

For systems that also include an IC695ETM001 Ethernet module or an IC695PBM300 PROFIBUS Master module sharing the same backplane, slot addressing must be carefully reviewed in the hardware configuration tree within Proficy Machine Edition. Conflicts in module addressing are a common source of startup faults during retrofit commissioning. Similarly, if the system communicates with an HMI — such as a GE QuickPanel+ or a third-party panel running CIMPLICITY or iFIX — the motion tag database should be exported and validated before the hardware swap to ensure screen animations, setpoint writes, and alarm triggers remain intact after the module replacement.

I/O integration is another key consideration. If the existing motion application relies on high-speed position capture or registration mark detection via dedicated I/O, the IC695ALG600 analog input module or IC695MDL664 discrete output module assignments in the hardware configuration must be preserved. Any changes to slot positions during the retrofit will require corresponding updates in the PME hardware tree and a full program download.

For systems using the IC695RMX128 redundancy module or operating in a hot-standby configuration, the motion module retrofit must be coordinated with the redundancy switchover plan to avoid unplanned failovers during the maintenance window.

Downtime Control During System Migration

Minimizing production downtime during an IC695PMM335 installation requires a structured pre-swap protocol. Before powering down the control cabinet, use Proficy Machine Edition to perform a full hardware configuration backup and export the motion program, including all axis parameters, cam profiles, gearing ratios, and home sequence logic. Store this backup on a secure engineering workstation — not solely on the PLC’s internal flash — so that recovery is possible even if the CPU requires replacement.

During the physical swap, label all SERCOS fiber connections before disconnecting them. The SERCOS ring topology means that an incorrectly reconnected fiber will prevent all axes from initializing, which is a common cause of extended commissioning delays. After seating the IC695PMM335 in the backplane, power up the rack and allow the RX3i CPU to perform its hardware scan before downloading the configuration. Verify that the module’s LED status indicators show normal operation before initiating a motion program download.

For lines where even a brief unplanned stop carries significant cost, consider staging the retrofit during a scheduled preventive maintenance window. Pre-configure the IC695PMM335 on a bench test rack using a spare IC695CPU310 and a representative servo drive before the live installation. This allows axis tuning parameters to be validated offline, reducing on-site commissioning time to a final verification run rather than a full tuning session. All units supplied by SMARTNEXMSK are pre-tested for functional operation prior to shipment, which further reduces the risk of receiving a non-functional module during a time-critical maintenance window.

Retrofit Support FAQ

Q1: Can the IC695PMM335 directly replace an IC693DSM314 in a Series 90-30 system?
The IC695PMM335 is designed for the RX3i (IC695) backplane and is not physically compatible with the Series 90-30 (IC693) backplane. A retrofit from Series 90-30 to RX3i requires replacing the backplane, power supply, and CPU in addition to the motion module. However, the SERCOS II servo drive connections and fiber cabling can typically be reused, and the motion program logic can be migrated to the RX3i platform using Proficy Machine Edition’s import tools.

Q2: What commissioning steps are required after installing the IC695PMM335?
After physical installation, download the hardware configuration from Proficy Machine Edition, verify module recognition in the I/O tree, and perform a SERCOS ring initialization. Each axis must be enabled individually, and servo drive parameters (SERCOS IDN settings) should be verified against the original drive configuration. A jog test at low speed on each axis is recommended before returning the machine to automatic mode.

Q3: Is the IC695PMM335 compatible with third-party SERCOS servo drives?
Yes. The IC695PMM335 supports the SERCOS II standard, which is an open protocol. It is compatible with any SERCOS II-compliant servo drive, including drives from Bosch Rexroth, Siemens, Fanuc, and Kollmorgen, provided the drive’s SERCOS profile and IDN parameter set are correctly configured in PME. Compatibility should be verified against the specific drive firmware version before installation.

Q4: What does the 12-month warranty cover?
All IC695PMM335 units supplied by SMARTNEXMSK carry a 12-month warranty covering functional failure under normal operating conditions. Each unit undergoes pre-shipment functional testing. The warranty covers repair or replacement of the module. It does not cover damage resulting from incorrect installation, overvoltage, or physical impact. Warranty claims are processed directly through SMARTNEXMSK’s technical support team.

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