Regular maintenance of your PLC system’s battery isn’t just recommended—it’s essential for preventing costly data loss and production downtime.
In industrial automation, the GE Fanuc 90-70 IC697ACC701 battery plays a critical role in maintaining system continuity. This unsung hero quietly safeguards your programmable logic controller’s memory during power disruptions, ensuring your operations resume smoothly after outages. For professionals working with GE Fanuc 90-70 series PLCs, understanding this component is crucial for proper maintenance and system reliability.
Understanding the GE Fanuc 90-70 PLC System
The GE Fanuc 90-70 series represents some of GE Fanuc’s most robust and high-performance programmable logic controllers. These systems are built for industrial environments where reliability and precision are non-negotiable. With capabilities ranging from 512K bytes to 6M bytes of memory and support for thousands of I/O points, these PLCs manage complex operations in manufacturing, processing, and automation applications.
The IC697ACC701 battery serves as the lifeline for system preservation, providing backup power to maintain user memory and critical data during power interruptions. Without this essential component, your PLC would lose its programming and operational parameters every time the main power disconnects, leading to significant downtime and potential production losses.
In-Depth Look at the IC697ACC701 Battery
The IC697ACC701 is a specific lithium battery designed exclusively for GE Fanuc’s 90-70 series PLCs. This specialized battery is strategically located on the baseplate housing of the system for easy access when replacement becomes necessary.
Technical Specifications and Purpose:
- Memory Preservation: The primary function of the IC697ACC701 battery is to maintain user memory during power loss, preventing data corruption and program loss
- Clock Operation: It also powers the real-time calendar clock embedded in the PLC CPU, ensuring accurate timekeeping even during outages
- Longevity: Under ideal conditions of 20°C (68°F), the battery has an impressive shelf life of up to 10 years, though actual performance in operation may vary based on environmental factors and usage patterns
- Safety Features: The battery is designed with a conservation mode that activates when the baseplate power is off, extending its service life by conserving power
When to Replace Your GE Fanuc 90-70 IC697ACC701 Battery
Proactive Replacement Schedule
GE Fanuc recommends proactive maintenance rather than waiting for failure indicators. For the IC697ACC701, this means establishing a regular replacement schedule based on:
- Manufacturer Guidelines: While specific intervals for the IC697ACC701 aren’t provided in the search results, similar systems from Fanuc recommend annual replacement as a preventive measure
- Environmental Factors: Plants with higher temperatures may require more frequent replacements
- Criticality of Application: Systems controlling essential processes warrant more conservative replacement schedules
Warning Signs of Battery Depletion
Today’s industrial systems typically provide advance warnings of battery failure. While the specific indicators for the GE Fanuc 90-70 series aren’t detailed in the search results, most industrial PLCs will:
- Display visual alerts on indicators or interface panels
- Log system events related to power issues
- Potentially activate output signals that can be integrated into alarm systems
Step-by-Step GE Fanuc 90-70 IC697ACC701 Battery Replacement Guide
Safety First: Pre-Replacement Preparations
- Backup Your System: Always save the PLC program to a secure location before beginning any maintenance procedure
- Power Considerations: Unlike some CNC systems that recommend powering on during battery replacement, PLC procedures may differ—consult specific documentation for GE Fanuc 90-70 series
- Have the Correct Part: Ensure you have the genuine IC697ACC701 battery on hand before starting
- Allocate Time: Plan the replacement to minimize system downtime
Replacement Procedure
- System Preparation: Place the PLC in a safe state for maintenance
- Access the Battery: Locate the battery on the baseplate housing
- Swap Procedure: Remove the old battery and immediately install the new one
- Secure Connection: Ensure the new battery is properly seated and connected
- System Verification: After replacement, verify system integrity and check that memory has been preserved
Important Considerations:
- Data Preservation: If the battery is completely depleted before replacement, you may need to reload the program memory
- Proper Disposal: Follow local regulations for battery disposal, and consider insulating terminal tapes to prevent short circuits
IC697ACC701 Battery vs. Alternatives Comparison
| Feature | IC697ACC701 Official Battery | Generic Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Specifically designed for GE Fanuc 90-70 series | May have fitment or performance issues |
| Reliability | Proven performance with known specifications | Uncertain quality and lifespan |
| Safety | Tested and certified for the application | Potential safety risks |
| Warranty | Likely covered by manufacturer support | Limited or no warranty |
| Performance | Optimized for the PLC’s power requirements | May not match specific current demands |
Importance of Genuine GE Fanuc IC697ACC701 Battery
Using official components like the genuine IC697ACC701 provides significant advantages:
- Guaranteed Compatibility: The battery is specifically engineered to meet the power requirements and form factor of your GE Fanuc 90-70 system
- Reliable Performance: Genuine batteries undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet specifications and deliver consistent performance
- System Longevity: Properly matched power characteristics help preserve the overall health of your PLC components
- Support: Using official parts maintains your eligibility for technical support and service from GE
Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues
Even with proper maintenance, issues can occasionally arise. Here are some common scenarios:
- Rapid Battery Drain: If your IC697ACC701 requires replacement more frequently than expected, investigate potential system issues causing excessive power draw during outages
- Memory Loss Despite New Battery: This could indicate problems with the battery connection or potentially deeper issues with the PLC’s power supply circuit
- Error Messages After Replacement: Double-check the installation and ensure the battery is properly seated in its housing
Maximizing Your PLC System’s Battery Life
Implement these practices to extend the service life of your IC697ACC701:
- Maintain Stable Environment: Keep operating temperatures consistent, ideally around 20°C (68°F)
- Regular System Checks: Include battery inspection in your routine maintenance schedule
- Power Management: Ensure clean, stable power to the PLC to minimize unnecessary battery usage
- Documentation: Keep records of replacement dates to anticipate future needs
Conclusion
The GE Fanuc 90-70 IC697ACC701 battery may be a small component, but it plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of your automation system. By understanding its function, implementing a proactive replacement schedule, and using only genuine replacement parts, you can prevent costly downtime and data loss.
Don’t wait for a battery failure to disrupt your operations. Check your system’s maintenance records today and ensure you have a backup IC697ACC701 on hand for when replacement becomes necessary.