The GE IC695CHS016-CA is a 16-slot Universal Backplane designed for the PACSystems RX3i PLC platform. It provides the physical and electrical foundation for installing compatible CPU, power supply, I/O, and option modules within an RX3i control system. The Universal Backplane supports both PCI-based IC695 modules and serial IC693/IC694 modules, while also supporting compatible Series 90-30 I/O and option modules.

For industrial facilities operating established GE automation systems, a dependable backplane is essential. It connects individual modules into a coordinated control platform and provides the slot structure required for system expansion. Our company supplies GE and GE Fanuc industrial automation spare parts, including difficult-to-source backplanes and legacy PLC components.

A Foundation for PACSystems RX3i

A PLC system is more than a processor and a collection of I/O modules. The backplane provides the physical mounting points and communication paths that allow those modules to operate as part of one system.

The IC695CHS016-CA provides 16 module positions in the RX3i Universal Backplane family. Its dual-bus architecture allows compatible PCI-based and serial modules to share the same platform. This makes it useful for applications where an existing control system contains different generations or types of automation modules.

The backplane also includes a terminal strip for isolated 24 VDC input, a grounding point, an integrated grounding bar, and a serial expansion connector. Slot numbers are printed on the backplane to help engineers identify module positions during configuration and maintenance.

These features make the unit more than a simple mounting rail. It forms an important part of the RX3i system architecture.

Key Specifications

The published backplane documentation identifies the IC695CHS016 as the 16-slot RX3i Universal Backplane. The CA revision was introduced with hardware changes associated with EU-RoHS compliance.

Flexible Module Compatibility

One of the most useful characteristics of this hardware is its ability to accommodate multiple compatible module types.

The RX3i Universal Backplane uses separate PCI-based and serial buses. Slots can accept compatible RX3i modules as well as supported legacy I/O and option modules. This provides greater flexibility when maintaining or expanding an established control system.

For an engineering team, this can simplify system planning. Instead of requiring a completely separate rack architecture for every module generation, compatible equipment can be organized within the Universal Backplane according to the requirements of the application.

The available system documentation should always be checked for the exact CPU, I/O, power-supply, and option-module compatibility before installation.

Designed for Large Control Configurations

A 16-slot architecture provides considerable space for an industrial PLC configuration. Depending on the application, the rack can accommodate power supplies, CPUs, I/O modules, communication equipment, and other supported option modules.

The backplane documentation explains that IC695 DC power supplies occupy one slot, while certain AC power supplies occupy two slots. It also specifies that the rightmost expansion position is reserved for an appropriate serial expansion module rather than a standard two-slot module.

This arrangement allows engineers to plan the rack according to the application's module requirements.

For larger automation systems, the expansion capability can also be useful. The architecture includes a serial expansion connector for connection to compatible expansion and remote backplanes, helping extend the control system beyond the main rack when the application requires additional I/O capacity.

Physical Design and Installation

The 16-slot version has a published backplane length of approximately 604.3 mm, while the overall front-view dimension associated with the module configuration is approximately 570.2 mm. The documented backplane width is approximately 141.5 mm.

Adequate cabinet space is important. The installation documentation specifies clearance around the backplane to provide sufficient cooling airflow. It also recommends horizontal mounting because the specified orientation supports the required airflow and product performance.

This is an important consideration when replacing an existing unit. Engineers should evaluate cabinet dimensions, neighboring equipment, wiring access, connector clearance, and ventilation before installation.

Why the "-CA" Revision Matters

When purchasing legacy automation hardware, the complete catalog number is important.

The IC695CHS016 product family has gone through several hardware revisions. Documentation records show that the IC695CHS016-CA revision was released in April 2009 with hardware changes related to EU-RoHS compliance. Earlier revisions included the original version, BA revision, BAMP revision, and other hardware updates.

More recent PACSystems documentation also identifies IC695CHS016-CA or later hardware as a required backplane revision for certain RX3i CPU configurations. For example, Emerson's published compatibility information for specified CPE302/CPE305/CPE310 CPU versions requires IC695CHS016-CA or later backplane hardware, with additional firmware considerations for later backplane revisions.

Therefore, buyers should provide the full revision when requesting a replacement rather than simply specifying the base IC695CHS016 number.

Maintenance and Replacement Applications

Backplanes are generally long-life components, but they can still require replacement because of mechanical damage, connector problems, corrosion, installation changes, or other system-level issues.

A damaged backplane can affect multiple modules at the same time. This makes accurate troubleshooting important before replacement. Maintenance personnel should inspect the power supply, module connectors, grounding connections, wiring, and surrounding cabinet conditions.

When replacing the unit, technicians should also confirm the slot arrangement and module compatibility. The rightmost expansion position has specific restrictions, while the other available slots have defined module compatibility depending on the system architecture.

Following the appropriate PACSystems installation procedures helps reduce the risk of introducing additional problems during maintenance.

Suitable for Industrial Automation Spare Inventory

For facilities operating RX3i systems, keeping critical rack hardware available can be useful for long-term maintenance planning.

The IC695CHS016-CA can be relevant for:

• PACSystems RX3i PLC replacement projects
• Existing rack refurbishment
• Control cabinet maintenance
• System expansion
• Emergency spare inventory
• Legacy PLC modernization projects
• Replacement of damaged backplanes
• Industrial production and process-control applications

Because a backplane connects multiple system components, its availability can be important when repairing an established PLC installation.

Our company supports customers looking for GE industrial automation components, including legacy and hard-to-find PLC hardware. We can assist with model verification, availability confirmation, product condition information, and shipping arrangements.

A Reliable Rack Platform for RX3i Systems

The GE IC695CHS016-CA provides a 16-slot Universal Backplane for PACSystems RX3i systems. Its dual-bus design supports compatible PCI-based and serial modules, while additional features such as isolated 24 VDC input terminals, grounding provisions, and serial expansion connectivity make it suitable for structured industrial control installations.

Its revision history is also worth considering when sourcing a replacement. The CA version represents a specific hardware revision, and certain RX3i CPU configurations require CA or later backplane hardware.

For companies maintaining existing GE automation equipment, selecting the correct backplane can help preserve the established system configuration and simplify future maintenance.

If you need the GE IC695CHS016-CA for replacement, system expansion, repair, or spare inventory, our company can provide sourcing support and help confirm the required hardware before shipment.