Hardware Comparison: RX3i Selection Guide
Overview of the RX3i System
The RX3i control system, part of Emerson’s PACSystems family formerly GE Fanuc, is designed for industrial automation with flexibility, modularity, and IoT-readiness. It offers wide-ranging I/O options and serves as an upgrade path from legacy systems like Series 90-30, 90-70, RX7i, Series 6, and Series 5. The RX3i enables users to retain existing 90-30 I/O modules while upgrading the processor and power supply for modern performance.
Key Advantages Over Legacy Systems
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Up to 100x faster processing than older models
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Modular, chassis-based architecture for local and remote expansion
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Superior diagnostics and hot-swap capabilities
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Redundancy for EGD and PNSR (rare among PACSystems)
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Seamless upgrade path with compatibility for many 90-30 modules
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Designed for high-availability applications
PACSystems Model Comparison
| Feature | RX3i | VersaMax Modular | VersaPoint | PAC8000 | RSTi-EP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redundancy (EGD, PNSR) | ✔ | ✔ (EGD, PNSR) | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ (PNSR only) |
| Hot Swapping | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Diagnostics | High | Medium | High | High | Medium |
| Expansion Type | Chassis | Chassis | DIN-rail | DIN-rail | DIN-rail |
CPU Modules
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Discontinued: CPU310, CPU315, CPU320
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Active: CPE302, CPE305, CPE310, CPE330, CPE400, CPL410
| Model | Slots | USB | Ethernet | OS | Notes |
| CPE302 | 1 | ✔ (1x USB 2.0) | ✔ | VxWorks | Compact, rack-based |
| CPE305 | 1 | ✔ (1x USB 2.0) | ✔ | VxWorks | Compact, rack-based |
| CPE310 | 2 | ✔ | ✔ | VxWorks | Legacy protocol support |
| CPE330 | 2 | ✔ (1.1/2.0) | ✔ (2x 1GB) | VxWorks | Enhanced protocol support |
| CPE400 | 0 (rackless) | ✔ (2x USB 3.0) | ✔ (4x 1GB) | Linux | Standalone, edge-capable |
| CPL410 | 0 (rackless) | ✔ (2x USB 3.0) | ✔ (4x 1GB) | Linux | Built-in Field Agent |
Programming and Storage
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All RX3i CPUs: Up to 512 blocks (768 for CPE400/410)
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Supported by Proficy Machine Edition (SIM 13+ for newer models)
Firmware Upgrades
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Legacy models: Serial port (WinLoader)
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Newer models: USB or Web (Ethernet)
Communication Support
| Model | RS-232 | RS-485 | USB | Ethernet | Modbus TCP | PROFINET |
| CPU310/315/320 | DB9 | 15-pin D | ❌ | ✔ | ✔ | ❌ |
| CPE302/305 | RJ-25 | ❌ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| CPE330 | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| CPE400/CPL410 | RJ-45 | ❌ | ✔ (USB 3.0) | 4x 1GB | ✔ | ✔ |
I/O Modules and Capabilities
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Scalability: 8 to 32,000 I/O points
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Types:
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Digital (Voltage, TTL, Relay)
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Analog (Voltage, Current, RTD, Thermocouple)
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Specialty: Pulse Test, PWM, High-Speed Counters, Power Sync, Strain Gauge, SoE
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Hot-Swappable: Reduces downtime
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Environmental Readiness: Marine and extreme temp options available
Networking and Gateways
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Supported Protocols:
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Modbus/TCP, Ethernet/IP, CMX, Profibus DP
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Supported Gateways:
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HART, GENIUS, DNP3 (Serial/TCP), IEC-61850, CANOpen, Modbus RTU/TCP
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Power Supply Units
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Base Supply: 40W, AC/DC input
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AC Input: 85–264V AC
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DC Input: 100–300V DC
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Outputs:
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5.1V DC (logic)
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3.3V DC (internal use)
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24V DC (relay circuit support)
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Redundancy/Load Sharing: Supported with proper configuration
Conclusion
The RX3i system is a future-ready, scalable control platform designed for high-speed, high-volume industrial automation. It seamlessly integrates legacy module compatibility, modern processing, and advanced networking to serve everything from compact control systems to enterprise-level applications. For migration support, Emerson provides tools like 1:1 part conversion and firmware transfer via Proficy.
Need Help Selecting RX3i Components?
Contact our automation experts at:
PLG Automation
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271