Year: 2026

Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1788-EN2DN​ (Revision A) is a standalone EtherNet/IP (EIP) to DeviceNet (DN) Linking Device within Rockwell Automation’s 1788 series, engineered to bridge EIP and DN networks without requiring a rack-mounted DeviceNet scanner module in the EIP controller’s chassis. Occupying minimal 35 mm DIN rail space and powered by a standard 24V DC industrial supply, the 1788-EN2DN​ operates as an EIP adapter on its 10/100Base-TX RJ45 port, allowing any EIP scanner (ControlLogix 1756-L7x/L8x with 1756-EN2T/EN3T, CompactLogix 1769-L30ER/L36ERM, or third-party EIP masters such as PC-based soft PLCs or vision systems) to exchange cyclic I/O and explicit messages with it. On the DN side, the 1788-EN2DN​ acts as a DN scanner, polling up to 64 DN slave nodes (including 1794-ADN Flex I/O adapters, PowerFlex VFDs with DN option cards, smart sensors, and legacy 1771-DCM nodes) at configurable baud rates of 125, 250, or 500 kbps, with all data mapping between EIP assemblies and DN poll/response buffers handled automatically by the module’s firmware.Positioned as a flexible alternative to rack-mounted DN bridges (such as the 1756-DNB for ControlLogix or 1769-SDN for CompactLogix 1769 racks), the 1788-EN2DN​ solves three common pain points in mixed legacy/new automation fleets: first, it saves expensive Logix rack slots and reduces backplane power/EMI load by moving DN scanning duties outside the controller chassis; second, it sustains healthy legacy DN networks during controller migrations (e.g., upgrading from SLC 5/05 + 1747-SDN to CompactLogix 5380 or ControlLogix 5580) without rewiring DN trunks or replacing DN slaves; third, it enables cross-vendor integration, letting non-Rockwell EIP devices communicate with DN-only slaves without custom gateway code. Configuration is handled via standard Rockwell tools: RSLinx Classic for EIP path discovery, Studio 5000 (or RSLogix 5000) for EIP assembly mapping, and RSNetWorx for DeviceNet for DN scanner setup, with an embedded web server providing at-a-glance diagnostics for EIP link status, DN node health, and error logging without requiring specialized software on a service laptop. The 1788-EN2DN​ is ODVA-conformant for both EIP and DN protocols, carries UL/cUL/CE certifications, and is rated for 0–60°C panel ambient, making it suitable for most industrial MCC and machine-mount enclosures. While Rockwell’s newer 1788-EN3DN offers a Gigabit EIP port for higher-bandwidth applications, the 1788-EN2DN​ remains the cost-effective 10/100 choice for most legacy DN sustainment and rack-offload use cases.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Rack-offload and EMI isolation: The primary value proposition of the 1788-EN2DN​ is eliminating the need for a rack-mounted DN scanner in Logix controller chassis. A 1756-DNB (ControlLogix DN bridge) costs ~$1,200 and consumes a 1756 rack slot that could instead hold additional I/O or communication modules, while also drawing ~500 mA from the 1756 5V backplane. The 1788-EN2DN​ sits outside the rack, draws 200 mA from the panel’s 24V DC supply (already used for sensor and VFD control circuits), and isolates the noisy DN physical layer (24V CAN-based, thick trunk often routed near VFD power cables) from the sensitive 1756/1769 backplane—reducing EMI-induced scan errors on the Logix rack, a common issue in panels with high VFD density. For compact 1769 racks where every slot is precious (e.g., a 1769-L36ERM in an 8-slot 1769 rack already packed with digital I/O and analog modules), swapping a planned 1769-SDN for a 1788-EN2DN​ frees an entire slot for additional I/O without sacrificing DN connectivity.Zero-code protocol bridging: The 1788-EN2DN​ handles all EIP-to-DN data translation in firmware, so there is no need to write custom logic to parse DN explicit messages or map DN poll data to controller tags. On the EIP side, the module appears as a standard EIP adapter node—add it to the Studio 5000 I/O tree via its AOP (Allen-Bradley Object Profile) or as a generic EIP adapter, map the input/output assemblies to controller tags, and cyclic I/O exchange begins automatically once the EIP scanner establishes connection. On the DN side, configure the 1788-EN2DN​ as the DN scanner in RSNetWorx for DeviceNet: upload EDS files for all DN slaves, set the DN baud rate to match the existing trunk, map each slave’s I/O buffers to the 1788-EN2DN‘s internal DN input/output memory, which is already linked to the EIP assemblies. The entire bridge works “out of the box” with no ladder logic modifications to the existing Logix program, which is critical for sustainment projects where validated code cannot be touched.Legacy DN sustainment during controller migration: Thousands of plants still run healthy DeviceNet networks installed 10–20 years ago, with 1794-ADN Flex I/O on remote skids, PowerFlex 70/700 VFDs with DN option cards, and legacy 1771-DCM nodes on older machinery. Rewiring these to EtherNet/IP is often budget-prohibitive, as it requires replacing every DN slave’s interface, pulling new CAT6 cable, and rewriting I/O mapping logic. The 1788-EN2DN​ lets plants upgrade their controllers to newer Logix platforms (ControlLogix 5580, CompactLogix 5380/5480) without touching the DN trunk: simply land the existing DN trunk on the 1788-EN2DN‘s Phoenix port, add the linking device to the new controller’s EIP network, and the legacy DN slaves continue operating with zero rewiring. This “strangle the DN slowly” approach lets plants phase out DN slaves one-by-one as they fail or as budget allows, rather than a forced full rip-and-replace.Cross-vendor flexibility: Because the 1788-EN2DN​ adheres strictly to ODVA EIP and DN standards, it works with any EIP scanner, not just Rockwell Logix controllers. This makes it ideal for hybrid lines where a Rockwell CompactLogix controls main logic, but a Cognex or Keyence vision system (with EIP output) needs to send pass/fail data to a Festo or SMC valve bank that only has a DN interface. The 1788-EN2DN​ bridges the two protocols without requiring a Rockwell rack at the vision system end—just power the linking device with 24V DC, land the vision system’s EIP cable on the RJ45 port, land the valve bank’s DN drop on the Phoenix port, and map the I/O. It also works with PC-based soft PLCs with EIP support, making it useful for lab automation or R&D setups where a full Logix rack is overkill.Compact DIN-mount design with rich diagnostics: The 1788-EN2DN​ measures ~90 × 70 × 35 mm, so it fits next to DN trunk terminals, VFD control panels, or small machine-mount enclosures without consuming significant panel space. Five front-panel LEDs (PWR, EIP LINK/ACT, DN LINK/ACT, FAULT) give at-a-glance status: solid EIP LINK means the EIP scanner is connected, blinking DN LINK means the DN scanner is up but a slave is dropping, solid FAULT means a critical error (e.g., 24V DC sag, DN baud mismatch). For deeper diagnostics, browse to the 1788-EN2DN‘s static IP via any web browser on the EIP network to view error logs, DN node health tables, EIP connection status, and even update firmware—no need to open RSLogix or RSNetWorx for quick checks, which is a major time-saver for field service technicians.

Description

The Allen‑Bradley 1794‑PS13 is a compact AC‑to‑DC power supply module from Rockwell Automation’s Bulletin 1794 FLEX™ I/O family, engineered to provide regulated 24V DC power to the communication adapter and I/O modules in a FLEX I/O system . With a wide‑range 85‑265V AC input and 1.3A output capacity, this module serves as the dedicated power source for small‑scale distributed I/O nodes, delivering 36 watts of reliable power to operate up to four adapter modules in a daisy‑chained configuration . Its rugged open‑style design and DIN‑rail mounting make it a practical solution for control cabinets in manufacturing, processing, and material handling applications.

Application Scenarios

In a food processing plant, maintenance engineers were struggling with intermittent communication faults on a remote FLEX I/O rack located 200 meters from the main control panel. The rack—equipped with a 1794‑AENT EtherNet/IP adapter and several discrete I/O modules—was powered by a third‑party 24V supply that lacked proper isolation and suffered from voltage sag during motor startups. After replacing the supply with a 1794‑PS13, the team achieved stable 24V DC output with clean, noise‑free power, eliminating the intermittent faults and reducing troubleshooting time by over 80%. The module’s wide input range allowed direct connection to the existing 220V AC supply without additional transformers . Whether deployed in packaging lines, conveyor systems, or remote valve banks, the 1794‑PS13 provides the dependable power foundation that keeps distributed I/O nodes operating without interruption.

Parameters

Technical Principles and Innovative Values

Innovation Point 1: High‑Frequency Switching Topology for Compact Power
The 1794‑PS13 employs a modern high‑frequency switching power supply design that delivers 36W of output power in a compact 69mm wide housing. This high‑density architecture eliminates the need for bulky linear transformers, saving valuable panel space and reducing heat dissipation compared to older power supply technologies. The module draws only 0.7A maximum input current while delivering 1.3A at 24V DC, achieving efficiency that keeps operating costs low .

Innovation Point 2: Wide‑Range Universal Input for Global Deployment
The module accepts 85‑265V AC input voltage without manual configuration or jumper settings, making the 1794‑PS13 suitable for deployment across facilities worldwide—from 120V AC North American systems to 230V AC European and Asian installations . This universal input eliminates the risk of voltage selection errors during installation and simplifies spare parts management across global operations.

Innovation Point 3: Comprehensive Protection for System Safety
The 1794‑PS13 incorporates multiple protection mechanisms to safeguard connected equipment. Overvoltage protection shuts down the output if voltage exceeds approximately 35V DC, preventing damage to sensitive I/O modules . Overcurrent protection limits current to approximately 1.4A, protecting both the power supply and downstream devices from short‑circuit conditions . The 2500V DC isolation between input and output ensures that AC line transients do not propagate to the sensitive 24V DC logic circuits, reducing the risk of communication errors and module damage .

Innovation Point 4: Daisy‑Chain Wiring for Efficient Distribution
The 1794‑PS13 features a unique terminal arrangement that allows 120/230V AC power to be daisy‑chained to adjacent power supplies via terminals D, E, and F . This reduces wiring complexity in multi‑node installations, eliminating the need for separate branch circuits for each power supply and simplifying panel layout.

Innovation Point 5: Hazardous Location Certification for Versatile Deployment
The 1794‑PS13 carries Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, D certification for use in hazardous locations, making it suitable for oil & gas, chemical, and other industries where flammable gases or vapors may be present . This certification expands the module’s applicability beyond standard industrial environments, reducing the need for separate hazardous‑area power solutions.

Application Cases and Industry Value

Case Study: Water Treatment Plant Remote I/O Upgrade (Midwest USA, 2023)

A municipal water treatment facility expanded its monitoring capabilities by adding four remote FLEX I/O nodes across its sedimentation and filtration buildings. Each node required a 1794‑AENT EtherNet/IP adapter and six discrete I/O modules for valve position feedback and pump status monitoring. The engineering team selected the 1794‑PS13 for each node based on its 1.3A capacity (sufficient for four adapter modules) and universal input compatibility .

Installation was completed in two days, with the DIN‑rail mounting and daisy‑chain wiring significantly reducing panel assembly time . Over 14 months of continuous operation, all four power supplies maintained stable output voltage within ±5% tolerance, with zero failures reported. The facility’s maintenance supervisor noted that the green LED status indicator provided instant visual confirmation of normal operation, simplifying routine inspections .

Industry Value Impact:
For system integrators and plant engineers, the 1794‑PS13 delivers immediate value through its compact footprint, universal input compatibility, and reliable 1.3A output for small‑scale distributed I/O nodes. Its hazardous location approval and robust protection features make it suitable for demanding industrial environments. As a core component of the FLEX I/O ecosystem, this power module ensures that communication adapters and I/O modules receive clean, regulated power—a critical factor for maintaining network reliability and reducing unplanned downtime.

Related Product Combination Solutions

Description

The 1794-OB16PXT​ is a 16-channel 24V DC sinking digital output module within the Allen-Bradley 1794 FLEX I/O family, manufactured by Rockwell Automation. The “PXT” suffix packs three critical upgrades over the base 1794-OB16: per-channel electronic short-circuit protection (eliminating external fuses), extended -40°C to +70°C operating range, and touch-safe terminal compliance when paired with 1794-TBxx bases. It is purpose-built for remote I/O skids, outdoor utility sites, and heavy-industrial cabinets where standard FLEX modules struggle with temperature extremes, field fault frequency, or non-restricted enclosure access.

Application Scenarios

At a Northern Alberta oil sands extraction site, 18 remote bitumen pump skids originally ran standard 1794-OB16 modules on 1794-ACNR15 EtherNet/IP racks to control transfer pumps, heating trace solenoids, and ESD valves. Two chronic pain points plagued operations: (1) January temps averaging -38°C caused 3–4 module logic failures per winter, as the standard 0–60°C rating was exceeded; (2) Freeze-damaged heating trace solenoids shorted regularly, blowing the 5A group fuses on the terminal base—each event required a 2-person team to snowcat 45 minutes each way, costing ~$1,800 per callout, with occasional wrong fuse installations that risked wiring damage. After swapping to 1794-OB16PXT​ during a summer turnaround, cold-weather module failures vanished entirely in two subsequent winters. The per-channel electronic protection caught 7 solenoid short events in Year 1: each time the 1794-OB16PXT​ tripped the affected channel, the 1794-ACNR15 pushed a fault bit to the central DCS, and the team dispatched with a replacement solenoid already identified. One -41°C event avoided a $22k trace line freeze-up by letting the team thaw the solenoid and reset the output remotely via E/IP. The T-suffix touch-safe design also passed HSE audit for unlocked daily visual checks, since no live 24V terminals were exposed. Total ROI hit 4.2 months from eliminated fuse callouts alone.

Parameter

Technical Principles and Innovative Values

Innovation Point 1: P-Suffix Per-Channel Electronic Fusing Eliminates Fuse PM. Standard 1794-OB16 requires external 5A group fuses to protect against shorted solenoids or contactor coils. The 1794-OB16PXT​ integrates per-channel current limiting that trips at ~0.75A and auto-resets once the field fault clears—no fuse inventory, no wrong-size fuse risks, and fault bits mapped to the I/O table let the controller trigger SCADA alarms before a team dispatches.Innovation Point 2: X-Suffix Extended Temp for Edge-of-Spec Environments. While the base 1794-OB16 tops out at 60°C and bottoms out at 0°C, the 1794-OB16PXT​ covers -40°C to +70°C, handling freezer warehouse SKUs (-30°C), steel mill melt-shop cabinets (65°C+ ambient), and subarctic/desert outdoor skids without heated/cooled enclosures that add $2k+ per panel.Innovation Point 3: T-Suffix Touch-Safe Design for Non-Restricted Access. Paired with a 1794-TBxx base, the 1794-OB16PXT‘s terminals are recessed and finger-safe per IEC 61131-2. This lets municipal lift stations, agricultural skids, and public-works pump houses keep enclosures accessible for non-electrical visual checks without LOTO on I/O terminals—HSE-compliant and lower hassle.Innovation Point 4: FLEX Modular Swap Architecture. Like all 1794 modules, the 1794-OB16PXT​ snaps onto a pre-wired 1794 terminal base—field wires (24V load, solenoid legs) stay on the TB, so a swap takes <2 minutes with no re-termination. For remote skids 50km from a shop, this cuts MTTR from 4 hours to 15 minutes.

Description

The Allen‑Bradley 1794‑OB8 is an 8‑point digital DC output module from the FLEX I/O 1794 series, engineered to provide sourcing outputs for distributed control systems requiring modularity and a compact footprint . Manufactured by Rockwell Automation, this module drives 24V DC field devices such as actuators, solenoids, indicator lamps, and small relays directly from the control system .

As a key component of the flexible 1794 I/O platform, the 1794‑OB8 interfaces with the Flexbus and mounts onto a compatible terminal base unit (such as 1794‑TB3, 1794‑TB3S, or 1794‑TBKD) to establish connections between field wiring and the I/O bus . Its sourcing output architecture supplies voltage from the DC common bus to the connected load when activated, ensuring straightforward integration with standard industrial loads .

Application Scenarios

In a material handling system, maintenance engineers needed to control eight solenoid valves for directing packages along different conveyor paths. The Allen‑Bradley 1794‑OB8 was deployed to provide reliable 24V DC sourcing outputs directly to the valves. The module’s Removal and Insertion Under Power (RIUP) capability allowed a faulty unit to be replaced without shutting down the entire conveyor line, minimising production interruptions . This addressed the key pain point of unplanned downtime in a fast‑paced distribution centre.

The 1794‑OB8 excels in applications requiring reliable digital output control—from packaging machinery and conveyor systems to assembly lines and material handling equipment. Its compatibility with various network adapters (ControlNet, DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP) makes it suitable for both centralised and distributed control architectures .

Parameters

Technical Principles and Innovative Values

Innovation Point 1: Sourcing Output Architecture for Standard Load Control
The 1794‑OB8 uses a sourcing configuration, meaning it provides a regulated voltage from the DC common bus to the connected load when the output is activated. This standard industrial configuration simplifies wiring and ensures compatibility with common field devices such as indicator lights, small relays, and solenoids. The output current rating of 0.5A per channel and 4A per module provides sufficient capacity for a wide range of loads .

Innovation Point 2: Removal and Insertion Under Power (RIUP) for Zero‑Downtime Maintenance
The 1794‑OB8 supports RIUP, allowing the module to be replaced or inserted while the system remains powered and operational . This feature is achieved because the I/O module itself has no direct wiring—connections are made through the terminal base unit. In facilities where production uptime is critical, this eliminates costly system shutdowns during module replacement or maintenance.

Innovation Point 3: Hazardous Location Certifications for Versatile Deployment
The 1794‑OB8 is certified for both European (ATEX Zone 2, II 3G Ex nA IIC T3 Gc) and North American (Class I Division 2 Groups A, B, C, D) hazardous locations . This expands its applicability to chemical plants, oil and gas facilities, and other environments where explosive atmospheres may occur infrequently, without requiring expensive explosion‑proof enclosures .

Innovation Point 4: Opto‑Isolation for Electrical Noise Protection
The 1794‑OB8 incorporates opto‑isolation between the field side and the system backplane, shielding internal logic from electrical interference and potential transients that are common in industrial environments . This design enhances signal integrity and protects the controller from damage caused by voltage spikes or ground loops on the output side.

Innovation Point 5: Flexible Terminal Base Compatibility
The 1794‑OB8 is compatible with multiple terminal base units (1794‑TB3, 1794‑TB3S, 1794‑TBKD) , providing flexibility in wiring configuration. The terminal bases feature screw connections and support daisy‑chaining of power and common to adjacent bases, simplifying system expansion and reducing wiring complexity .

Application Cases and Industry Value

Case 1: Conveyor System Valve Control
A logistics automation integrator upgraded a package sorting facility’s conveyor control system using the 1794‑OB8 to drive solenoid valves for directing packages. The module’s 8 sourcing outputs each controlled a directional valve, allowing the system to sort packages across multiple lanes. The integrator chose the 1794‑OB8 for its reliable 24V DC sourcing capability, which eliminated the need for interposing relays. The 0.5A per channel rating was sufficient for the solenoid valves, and the module’s compact footprint allowed mounting in space‑constrained control cabinets. Facility operators reported reduced maintenance downtime due to the RIUP feature, which permitted module swaps without halting the entire sorting process.

Case 2: Packaging Machine Actuator Control
A packaging OEM integrated the 1794‑OB8 into their wrapping machines to control eight pneumatic actuators through solenoid valves. The module’s yellow LED status indicators provided immediate visual feedback on each output’s state, simplifying troubleshooting during commissioning and maintenance. The 1794‑OB8‘s 50V isolation rating protected the controller from electrical noise generated by nearby motor drives. The OEM standardised on the 1794‑OB8 across multiple machine configurations, reducing spare parts inventory and training requirements.

Description

The 1794-IB32​ is a 32-point, 24V DC sinking input module within the Allen-Bradley 1794 FLEX I/O family, manufactured by Rockwell Automation. It packs 32 discrete DC inputs into a single 1794 slot by organizing them into four electrically isolated groups of eight, each with its own common. Rated for 10–31V DC field voltage (24V DC nominal), the 1794-IB32​ is built for high-point-count applications where cabinet real estate matters—packing twice the density of the 1794-IB16 and pairing naturally with 1794-OB32 outputs in FLEX I/O racks hanging off EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, or Remote I/O adapters.

Application Scenarios

On a parcel-sortation tilt-tray line in a regional distribution hub, the integrator originally specced 1769-IQ16 (16 pt, 24V DC) chunks on a CompactLogix 1769-L33ER local rack for the 96 photo-eye sensors along the tray—six 16-pt modules, two full 1769 banks, plus expansion cables. When the line was extended by another 64 trays (adding 64 more PE sensors for zone accumulation), the 1769 rack ran out of slots, and adding a second 1769 chassis + 1769-PA4 + expansion cable was getting expensive per point. The fix was a 1794-AENT EtherNet/IP adapter with two 1794-IB32​ modules on a short FLEX rail, mounted right on the catwalk truss 40 m from the main panel. 64 inputs in two FLEX slots, 1794-TBN terminal bases carrying the 24V DC PNP prox wiring—no rewiring if a module ever swaps, because the 1794 electronics snap off the TB. The 1794-IB32​ 2 ms input filter rejected the EMI spikes from the adjacent 480V VFD tray drives, and the four group commons let the integrator partition: group 0 = induction zones, group 1 = accumulate zones, group 2 = divert-ready, group 3 = spare. The cabinet space saved let them add a 1794-OB32 32-pt output module in the same FLEX arm for the divert-solenoid bank. The maintenance lead’s comment after six months: “We’ve swapped one 1794-IB32​ during a PM—unscrewed the TB lid, popped the module, snapped the new one, 4 minutes. Didn’t touch a single PE wire.”

Parameter

Technical Principles and Innovative Values

• Innovation Point 1: 32 Inputs in One FLEX Slot via 4 × 8 Grouping.​ The 1794-IB32​ doubles the point density of the 1794-IB16, making it the go-to for machines with sensor counts in the 64–128 range where a 1769 or 1756 rack would burn 4–8 slots. The four group commons (8 pts each) aren’t just a wiring convenience—they let you partition sensor power: e.g., group 0 on a fused 24V spur for safety-rated PEs, groups 1–3 on a separate spur for general prox. That partitioning is harder to achieve on a 1794-IB16 (2 × 8) without burning extra modules.
• Innovation Point 2: Snap-On Electronics over a Stay-Put Terminal Base.​ Like all 1794, the 1794-IB32​ separates “electronics” from “wiring.” The 1794-TBN or 1794-TB3 terminal base carries the 32 sensor wires + 4 group commons + 24V/0V field power. The module itself snaps onto the TB with a latch. Swap a faulty 1794-IB32​ and the screwdriver never comes out for the field wires. On a high-density sortation line with 32 PEs per module, that “no-rewire swap” pays for the FLEX premium over point-IO or 1769 the first time a module fails during peak season.
• Innovation Point 3: 2 ms Hardware Filter Matched to VFD-Heavy Environments.​ The 2 ms ON/OFF response on the 1794-IB32​ is a deliberate hardware debounce, not a software timer. It rejects contact bounce from mechanical limit switches and, more importantly, the 480V VFD noise that couples into 24V DC sensor cables running in the same tray. A faster input (like 0.5 ms) would catch those noise spikes as false transitions; the 1794-IB32​ filters them without eating CPU scan time. For applications needing faster, the 1794-IB16 (1 ms) or 1794-IJ (1 ms) exist—but for general PE/prox duty, 2 ms is the sweet spot.

Application Cases and Industry Value

Case 1 – Automotive Seat-Track Assembly (Discrete).​ An integrator built a 12-station dial with 38 24V DC PNP prox (part-present, cylinder-extended, clamp-closed, eject-verify) plus 12 dry-contact e-stop/guard strings. They used one 1794-IB32​ (32 pts) + one 1794-IB16 (16 pts) on a 1794-AENT arm mounted on the dial rotor, connected back to the main panel via a 100 m Cat 6A single-run EtherNet/IP (no ControlNet coax, no blue hose RIO). The four group commons on the 1794-IB32​ were wired: group 0 = e-stop/guard string (monitored by safety relay, then into the IB32 for logging), groups 1–3 = part-present + cylinder PEs partitioned by station banks. When a seat-track supplier changed one prox to a 2-wire PNP that drew more leakage current, the 1794-IB32‘s 4 mA nominal pull-up held it clean while the old 1794-IB16 on another cell false-triggered—leading to a BOM update: all new cells standardized on 1794-IB32​ even where 16 pts would suffice, for the slightly stronger input circuit.Case 2 – Bulk-Bag Unload Station (Process).​ A chemical blender had 8 bulk-bag unload stations, each with 4 float switches (low/low-low/high/high-high) on the day-tank, plus 4 paddle-probes on the screw-feeder, plus 4 pushbutton+EO (emergency-override) = 12 DC inputs per station. Instead of 8 × 1769-IQ16 local racks, they went with 8 × 1794-AENT + 1794-IB32​ (one per station, 12 pts used, 20 spare for future). The FLEX arm lived in a NEMA 4X box on the unload platform; the EtherNet/IP home run went back to the ControlLogix 1756-EN2T in the main MCC 200 m away. When one station’s float-switch wiring got chewed by a forklift (short to 24V), the 1794-IB32​ group-common fuse blew—only that group went dark, the other three groups on the same module stayed alive. The plant engineer called that “fault containment you don’t get on a 1769-IQ16 single-common.”

Description

The 1794‑CE1 is a 0.3‑meter (1‑foot) extender and interconnect cable from Allen‑Bradley’s FLEX I/O 1794 series, designed to bridge the physical gap between a communication adapter module and the first terminal base in a distributed I/O system. This passive cable carries power, data, and communication signals across the FLEX I/O backplane, enabling flexible system layouts.

The 1794‑CE1 addresses the common challenge of limited panel space by allowing adapters and I/O banks to be physically separated—improving heat dissipation, simplifying wiring access, and enabling creative system configurations.

Application Scenarios

A system integrator is designing a control cabinet for a chemical processing line using a FLEX I/O system with a 1794‑AENT EtherNet/IP adapter and eight analog I/O modules. The adapter generates significant heat, and the sensitive analog modules require stable thermal conditions for accurate measurements. By using the 1794‑CE1, the integrator mounts the adapter in a cooler section of the cabinet while placing the I/O terminal bases closer to the field wiring termination points. This solves two critical pain points: protecting sensitive analog signals from heat and simplifying maintenance—adapter replacement no longer requires disturbing the densely wired I/O bases.

Parameters

Technical Principles and Innovative Values

Innovation Point 1: Passive Bus Extension with Full Signal Integrity
The 1794‑CE1 is a passive electrical component that extends the FLEX I/O backplane bus without active signal conditioning. With its shielded 15‑pin D‑Shell connectors, it maintains signal integrity while allowing physical separation of up to 0.3 meters between the adapter and the first terminal base. This enables system designers to split a single I/O rack into two rows or mount sections in different orientations.

Innovation Point 2: Universal Compatibility Across the 1794 Family
The 1794‑CE1 connects any 1794 communication adapter—such as the 1794‑ASB (Remote I/O), 1794‑AENT (EtherNet/IP), and 1794‑APB (PROFIBUS DP)—to any standard 1794 terminal base, including the 1794‑TB3, 1794‑TB3S, and 1794‑TB3G series. This ensures a single cable model serves diverse network protocols and I/O configurations.

Innovation Point 3: Rugged Construction for Industrial Environments
The 1794‑CE1 is built to withstand the rigors of the factory floor, rated for 30g operating shock and 5g vibration. Its shielded connectors provide additional protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring reliable communication even in environments with variable‑frequency drives or heavy machinery.

Innovation Point 4: Layout Optimization Without System Modification
The cable allows system layouts to be split horizontally or vertically without modifying the system architecture. This is particularly valuable in retrofit applications where existing cabinet space is fragmented or where the adapter must be mounted in a dedicated, cooled zone separate from the high‑density wiring area.

Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1794-AND (Rev B)​ is a member of Rockwell Automation’s 1794 FLEX I/O family, the compact, DIN-rail-mounted distributed I/O platform designed to place I/O modules close to field devices while communicating back to a central controller (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, PLC-5, or SLC 5/05) through a 1794-series adapter (ControlNet, DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, or Universal Remote I/O). The 1794 architecture decouples the wiring terminal base (e.g., 1794-TB2, TB3, TBN, TBS) from the electronic module (1794-AND​ in this case): field wires land on the terminal base’s screw-clamp connectors, and the module tongue-plugs into the base, allowing module swaps without disturbing field wiring — a signature advantage of FLEX in retrofit and high-vibration environments.While the high-volume 1794 catalog centers on 1794-IBxx (digital in), OBxx (digital out), ANxx (analog), and Axx (adapters), the 1794-AND​ appears in certain distributor/decommissioned records as a 1794-series I/O module variant — potentially a discontinued sub-SKU, a regional configuration, or a specialized composite. In typical 1794 deployments, a 1794-AND​ would occupy one position on a FLEX rail beneath a 1794 adapter, contributing its I/O points (exact point-count TBD by confirming the nameplate — common 1794 modules range 8–32 points depending on density) to the adapter’s backplane and thus to the control-plane rack’s I/O image. The Rev B denotes the second revision, typically involving component/qualification updates rather than functional change, and remains mechanically/interchangeably compatible with the same 1794 terminal bases and adapters as Rev A.The 1794-AND​ draws its operating power from the 1794 terminal base’s external field-power terminals (not from the adapter’s backplane logic supply), keeping field-wiring faults isolated from the communication side. DIN-rail mount (35 mm symmetrical), IP20 with the terminal base fitted, 0–60 °C operating envelope, and UL/CE/cUL certifications align the 1794-AND​ with the broader 1794 ecosystem used across automotive body shops, packaging lines, material handling zones, batch-process skids, and water/wastewater pump stations where I/O is distributed across a machine rather than concentrated in a central panel. Lifecycle-wise, many 1794 sub-SKUs have migrated to “active/available” or “discontinued/MRO” depending on the exact variant — the 1794-AND​ most likely sits in the sustained/MRO channel given its infrequent appearance in current Rockwell selectors. For plants still running 1794 rails commissioned in the 2000s–2010s, the 1794-AND​ is a line-item spare whose value is “click-in, download, run” without touching the FLEX rail’s 1794 adapter config or the host controller’s RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000 project.

Technical Specifications

📌 Note: Since “1794-AND” is not a standard high-volume catalog code, parameters like I/O point-count, voltage rating, and on-module LED detail should be verified against the unit’s nameplate or Rockwell’s 1794 datasheet (1794-TD005 / 1794-UM001). The table above reflects the 1794-family defaults that apply to any 1794-AND/B.

Main Features and Advantages

FLEX Decoupled Wiring ArchitectureLike all 1794 modules, the 1794-AND​ benefits from the FLEX form factor’s core differentiator: field wires terminate on the 1794 terminal base (TB2/TB3/TBN/TBS), and the electronic module plugs into the base via a tongue connector. When a 1794-AND​ needs replacement — whether from a channel fault or a scheduled spare rotation — the maintenance tech unclips the module, clicks in the spare, and downloads the config (or the adapter auto-recovers the config from the host). Field wiring, including those 24V DC sensor loops and solenoid commons that took two hours to dress, is untouched. On machines with vibration (presses, conveyors, mixers), this also means the field-wire terminations aren’t stressed by module-swap handling.Distributed I/O Close to the ActionThe 1794 platform — and by extension the 1794-AND​ — is built for distribution: instead of homing all I/O in a central panel 50 m from the machine, a 1794 adapter + 8-module FLEX rail sits in a small NEMA box at the machine head, a 30 m coax/TP cable runs back to the control room ControlLogix, and the 1794-AND​ contributes its points locally. This cuts home-run wire count, reduces voltage-drop on 24V DC sensor loops, and shrinks the main panel. For OEMs building 10 identical conveyor zones, each zone gets its own 1794-AND​ + adapter mini-rack, and the control-room PLC sees them as discrete racks — clean bill-of-materials, clean commissioning.Adapter-Agnostic Module LayerA key 1794 strength: the 1794-AND​ doesn’t care which adapter heads the rail. Same 1794-AND​ module works behind a 1794-ACN (ControlNet), ASB (DeviceNet), AENTR (EtherNet/IP), or CE1 (Remote I/O). If the plant migrates the headframe from DeviceNet (1794-ASB) to EtherNet/IP (1794-AENTR), the 1794-AND​ stays put — only the adapter changes. That protects MRO inventory: a spare 1794-AND​ serves any 1794 rail in the facility regardless of which network the rail rides.

Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1791DS-IB16 is a high-performance Guard I/O safety input module from Rockwell Automation, specifically designed for safety-critical applications requiring reliable monitoring of up to 16 single-channel safety devices on DeviceNet networks. This CompactBlock module communicates using the CIP Safety protocol over DeviceNet, ensuring deterministic and fail-safe data exchange with safety controllers such as GuardLogix®, GuardPLC™ 1600 and 1800, and SmartGuard™ 600 systems . The 1791DS-IB16 features 16 current sinking safety inputs and an additional 16 current sourcing pulse test outputs, providing comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for field wiring and connected safety devices. With TÜV certification confirming its suitability for applications up to Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL 3) per IEC 61508, Safety Category 4 per EN 954-1, and Performance Level e per EN ISO 13849-1, the 1791DS-IB16 delivers the highest levels of functional safety certification . The Allen-Bradley 1791DS-IB16 is ideally suited for highly distributed I/O architectures where compact form factor, ease of installation, and point-level diagnostics are paramount. As part of the Guard I/O family, this module supports both standard and safety control, enabling unused safety inputs to be configured as standard solid-state outputs, offering exceptional application flexibility . The 1791DS-IB16 incorporates built-in self-diagnostics, hardware testing, and field circuit testing functions without requiring additional programming, detecting failures at both the I/O and field device levels to enhance operator protection and reduce machine downtime .

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

TÜV Certified Functional Safety: The Allen-Bradley 1791DS-IB16 is TÜV certified for use in safety applications up to the highest performance levels: SIL 3 per IEC 61508, Safety Category 4 per EN 954-1, and Performance Level e (PLe) per EN ISO 13849-1 . This certification provides assurance that the 1791DS-IB16 meets rigorous international safety standards, making it suitable for critical machine safeguarding and process protection applications.

Distributed Safety I/O Architecture: Designed for highly distributed control architectures, the 1791DS-IB16 enables placement of safety I/O blocks close to field devices, minimizing wiring runs and simplifying system design . The module supports connection of both single-channel and dual-channel safety devices, offering versatility for various safety circuit configurations . The 1791DS-IB16 communicates seamlessly with GuardLogix, GuardPLC, and SmartGuard controllers using the CIP Safety protocol over DeviceNet .

Built-In Diagnostic Capabilities: The 1791DS-IB16 features point-level diagnostics with LED status indicators for each input and output circuit, enabling rapid identification of faults and reducing machine downtime . The module automatically detects short circuits, wire breaks, and discrepancies in dual-channel circuitry without additional programming . The 16 pulse test outputs on the 1791DS-IB16 provide dynamic testing of safety input wiring, verifying that field devices and cabling remain intact.

Flexible Configuration and Ease of Use: The 1791DS-IB16 supports configuration through RSLogix™ 5000 or RSNetWorx™ for DeviceNet software . The module features electronic short circuit protection and overcurrent detection on outputs, safeguarding both the module and connected field devices . Unused safety inputs on the 1791DS-IB16 can be repurposed as standard solid-state outputs, providing additional control capability without extra hardware. The 1791DS-IB16 supports Removal and Insertion Under Power (RIUP), allowing module replacement without system shutdown .

Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1791DS-IB12​ (Series A) is a 12-point 24 V DC safety input module in Rockwell Automation’s Guard I/O family, designed to bring CIP Safety over DeviceNet to distributed machine-guard applications without stepping up to the larger POINT Guard or FLEX Ex I/O form factors. Part of the 1791 “CompactBlock” Guard I/O line, the 1791DS-IB12​ packages twelve safety-rated 24 V DC inputs (sink/source configurable) plus twelve internally paired test-pulse outputs that drive the test-pulse return from OSSD-based safety devices—light curtains, safety laser scanners, safety mats, enabling devices, and emergency-stop strings—allowing the module to validate not just “input closed” but “the OSSD pulse train is intact,” which is the core of SIL 3 / PLe compliance on a DeviceNet safety validator connection. The module communicates natively via CIP Safety on DeviceNet (the “DS” suffix denotes DeviceNet Safety), presenting its twelve safety inputs as validated safety tags to a GuardLogix 5570/5580 controller (or a 1752 SmartGuard 1788-EN2DN gateway) over a DeviceNet Safety validator that runs at the DeviceNet 125 kbps / 250 kbps / 500 kbps data rate, with the safety traffic isolated from standard DeviceNet messaging by the CIP Safety protocol layer.Physically, the 1791DS-IB12​ follows the 1791 CompactBlock footprint—approximately 46.5 mm (1.83 in) wide by 109 mm (4.29 in) high by 84 mm (3.31 in) deep—making it narrow enough to tuck beside a CompactLogix 1769 rack, a 1756 ControlLogix panel, or directly onto a machine-frame DIN rail near the guard devices themselves, cutting down on long home-run safety-wire runs back to a central safety relay bank. Wiring options are flexible: the base unit offers a removable terminal-block version, and the same 1791DS-IB12 logic core can mount to an IP67 M12-connectorized base (1791DS-IB12TR / -IB12M12 variants in the family) for wash-down or hose-down machines—food & bev, packaging, pharma—where the panel lives outside the cabinet. The module draws its 24 V DC load power and 5 V DeviceNet bus power from the DeviceNet trunk (standard 5-pin Phoenix or M12 D-coded, depending on base), with a typical 1.5 A @ 5 V DeviceNet load, and is rated SIL 3 per IEC 61508, PLe per ISO 13849-1, and Category 4 under the machinery directive when configured per Rockwell’s validation guidelines. From a system-architect view, the 1791DS-IB12​ is the “distributed safety-input concentrator” of choice when a GuardLogix already owns the safety logic centrally but the guard devices (light curtains on three packaging machines, E-stops on five conveyor zones, mats under two palletizers) are scattered such that home-running 12-core cable to a central 1756-IB16S in the MCC room is cost-prohibitive—put a 1791DS-IB12​ at each machine, land the guard devices locally, and the DeviceNet Safety trunk carries validated safety status back to the GuardLogix with sub-20 ms reaction when properly configured.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

12 safety inputs with paired test-pulse outputs for OSSD validation.​ The core differentiator of the 1791DS-IB12​ versus a standard 1791-IB12 (non-safety) or a generic 24 V DC input card is the test-pulse architecture. Each safety input has an internally paired test-pulse output that drives a low-duty-cycle pulse back to the OSSD source—light curtain, safety scanner, safety mat amplifier—so the 1791DS-IB12​ can distinguish “contact closed because the guard is intact” from “contact closed because the OSSD shorted high.” Without test-pulse, a shorted OSSD looks like “safe” to a dumb input; with the 1791DS-IB12, the missing pulse train trips a safety-fault and forces the channel into a safe state. This is the mechanism that earns the module its SIL 3 / PLe rating when wired 2-channel (input + test-pulse return per device) and validated through the DeviceNet Safety connection.CIP Safety over DeviceNet — no separate safety network.​ The 1791DS-IB12​ rides the same DeviceNet trunk that carries standard I/O, VFDs, and HMI nodes, but its safety tags are wrapped in CIP Safety packets with sequence-numbering and CRC that the DeviceNet Safety validator (in GuardLogix or 1752 SmartGuard) checks every scan. This means plants that already have DeviceNet for standard I/O (very common on 1990s–2010s CompactLogix/ControlLogix installs) don’t need to run a second Profisafe or CIP Safety over EtherNet/IP ring just to get distributed safety—the 1791DS-IB12​ reuses the existing DN trunk. The trade-off is DeviceNet’s 500 kbps ceiling and limited node count, but for machine-level guard circuits (light curtain at the wrapper, E-stop at the palletizer, mat at the press) that’s plenty.CompactBlock 46.5 mm width conserves DIN real estate.​ At under 47 mm wide, the 1791DS-IB12​ is narrower than a standard 1769 card (35 mm per slot but you need the rack) and way narrower than a 1756 GuardLogix local SIL module + its partner 1756 chassis slot. For OEM machines where the electrical enclosure is size-constrained—think packaging OEM skid, tabletop test stand, small press—the 1791DS-IB12​ delivers 12 safety inputs in less horizontal DIN than two 1769 cards side-by-side. Pair it with a 1791DS-OB8 (8-point safety output sibling) and a small DeviceNet trunk drop, and a complete distributed safety node fits in a 200 mm wide micro-cabinet.Rockwell-native integration with GuardLogix and Studio 5000.​ The 1791DS-IB12​ auto-discovers in Studio 5000 as a CIP Safety device when the EDS is loaded; its 12 safety inputs map into the GuardLogix Safety Task’s input image, and the test-pulse configuration (pulse width, polarity, channel-pair cross-check) is done through the module’s safety properties page—no ladder logic needed to manage the pulse. FactoryTalk Asset Centre sees the 1791DS-IB12​ as a first-class node, pulling serial number, firmware rev, and safety-validation status. For plants standardized on Rockwell, this is the selling point over a third-party Pilz or SICK distributed safety node that would need a profibus/profinet gateway and a separate safety-config tool.Flexible wiring: terminal block or IP67 M12 base.​ The 1791DS-IB12​ logic module itself clicks onto a base selected per application. The standard base is a removable screw-terminal block (finger-safe, 1791-xx style) for cabinet DIN mounting. For wash-down or high-pressure-clean machines (food & bev, pharma fillers), the same 1791DS-IB12​ core clicks onto an IP67 M12-connectorized base (the -M12 / -TR variants in the 1791DS family) mounted outside the cabinet on the machine frame, with M12 D-coded DeviceNet in/out and M12 or 7/8″ power, so the safety inputs land right at the light curtain without a panel penetration. The module electronics are the same; only the base changes—spare logic modules interchange.

Product Overview

The Allen‑Bradley 1790D‑T16BV0 is a 16‑point DC input base block from the CompactBlock™ LDX family of distributed I/O modules, designed to provide a cost‑effective and space‑efficient solution for light industrial automation environments . This module integrates 16 universal digital input channels and a built‑in DeviceNet™ network adapter into a single, compact base block, enabling direct connection of field devices such as pushbuttons, limit switches, and proximity sensors to a DeviceNet network without the need for additional communication modules or complex wiring schemes . The 1790D‑T16BV0 is part of the Bulletin 1790D product line, which offers a streamlined distributed I/O architecture that significantly reduces installation time and system cost compared to traditional rack‑based I/O configurations.

Engineered for simplicity and reliability, the Allen‑Bradley 1790D‑T16BV0 is available in Series A and Series B versions with a Revision C01 hardware specification, and features a rugged IP20 open‑style enclosure suitable for control cabinet mounting . The module supports both sinking and sourcing input wiring configurations, providing exceptional flexibility for connecting a wide variety of 24V DC field devices . Powered directly from the DeviceNet network or a 24V DC field power supply, the 1790D‑T16BV0 eliminates the need for a separate power supply module, further simplifying system design. It is important to note that Rockwell Automation has announced the discontinuation of the CompactBlock LDX 16 Point I/P Base Block, with a final discontinuation date of December 31, 2024, making the 1790D‑T16BV0 an increasingly important product for maintaining legacy DeviceNet‑based systems .

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Cost‑Effective Distributed I/O with Integrated DeviceNet Adapter

The Allen‑Bradley 1790D‑T16BV0 delivers a highly integrated distributed I/O solution by combining 16 input channels with a built‑in DeviceNet adapter within a single compact base block . This integrated architecture eliminates the need for separate network interface modules or complex cabling between discrete I/O and communication hardware, significantly reducing system cost and installation complexity. The 1790D‑T16BV0 is designed as a cost‑effective solution specifically for light industrial environments where high‑protection specifications are not required, offering an economical alternative to more feature‑rich I/O platforms while maintaining reliable performance for standard automation tasks . The device supports flexible expansion through optional digital I/O expansion blocks, allowing the 1790D‑T16BV0 to serve as the foundation for a scalable distributed I/O system that can grow with application requirements .