CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA, FEBRUARY 21, 2007 GE Fanuc Automation, a unit of GE Industrial, today announced the availability of two new application solution modules for its award winning PACSystems® RX3i controller: the RX3i Serial Communications Module and RX3i High Speed Counter.

There are two RX3i Serial Communications Modules, one provides two independent, isolated serial ports and the other provides four independent, isolated serial ports. Up to six modules can be located in the main PACSystems RX3i backplane. In addition, each port can be configured for MODBUS Master, MODBUS Slave, or Serial I/O protocol. CCM and DNP 3.0 Master/Slave are planned for first half 2007. MODBUS Master mode exchanges with up to 64 individual slaves. The slaves are set up during module configuration and are easily controlled from the application program with no special messaging required.

“The Serial Communications Module automatically supplies the MODBUS message structure including device address, function code and error check information based on configuration of the exchange,” said Bill Black, Controller Product Manager for GE Fanuc.

The new high performance RX3i High Speed Counter can be configured for a wide range of counter types (Type A, B, C, D, E, Z and user-defined types of counters), generate Controller interrupts and Camming/PLS (Programmable Limit Switch). There are two models to choose from: 4-channel and 8-channel versions. The PACSystems RX3i High Speed Counter modules provide direct processing of rapid pulse signals up to 1.5 MHz (32bit) for industrial control applications.

“These modules can sense inputs, process input count information and control outputs without burdening the CPU,” said Black. “The power of the High Speed Counter flexibility solves a wide range of application issues.”

The PACSystems RX3i controller is an integral part of the innovative PACSystems family of programmable automation controllers (PACs). Like the rest of the family, the PACSystems RX3i features a single control engine and universal programming environment to provide application portability across multiple hardware platforms and deliver a true convergence of control choices.

The RX3i offers a high level of automation functionality in a compact, cost-effective package. The PACSystems portable control engine provides high performance on several different platforms, allowing OEMs and end users with application variability to choose the exact control system hardware that best suits their needs.
Both the PACSystems RX3i Serial Communications Module and PACSystems RX3i High Speed Counter are available immediately.

About GE Fanuc Automation
GE Fanuc Automation Corporation, a joint venture between GE and FANUC LTD of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability. With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, CNCs, operator interfaces, industrial computers, and lasers. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, GE Fanuc Automation is a part of GE Industrial and combines the diverse global strengths of the GE family with the local presence customers need to design, develop and maintain their automation investments.

For more information, visit www.gefanuc.com or contact: GE Fanuc Information Center, P.O. Box 8106, Charlottesville, VA 22906, Phone: (800) GE FANUC (800-433-2682), Fax: 434-978-5205, e-mail: gefanuc@gefanuc.com.

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