الوصف
The GE IC695CMX128 is a Control Memory Xchange (CMX) module for the PACSystems RX3i series of PLCs. Its primary function is to provide a large block of user shared memory that can be accessed by multiple CPUs in a redundant or distributed control system.
Key Features
- Shared Memory: The core purpose of the CMX module is to create a common memory space accessible to multiple controllers. This allows for extremely fast data exchange between CPUs without the overhead of traditional communication protocols like Ethernet or serial.
- Size: The “128” in the part number indicates it provides 128 Megabytes of shared memory. This is a substantial amount of memory for storing large data sets, recipes, or complex control variables that need to be synchronized across multiple processors.
- Redundancy and High Availability: In a redundant RX3i system, the CMX module is critical for synchronization. It’s used by the primary and standby CPUs to share data and ensure a seamless, bumpless transfer of control in the event of a failure.
- Multi-CPU Systems: The module can also be used in non-redundant configurations where multiple CPUs need to share data for parallel processing or to partition a large control application across several controllers.
- High-Speed Bus: The CMX module connects directly to the RX3i’s high-speed backplane, allowing for real-time, low-latency data access.
Applications
The IC695CMX128 is a specialized module used in demanding, high-performance control systems where data sharing and system integrity are paramount. Common applications include:
- Redundant Control Systems: Used in mission-critical applications like power generation, oil and gas, and water treatment, where a system failure is not an option.
- Distributed Control: For large-scale manufacturing lines or processes where different parts of the application are controlled by separate CPUs, but they need to share common data.
- Data Logging: Used to store high-speed process data for later analysis or to provide a buffer for data transfer to a higher-level system.