Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 SLC 500 Rack Interconnect Cable – 36-Inch Chassis Expansion

Status: In Stock

The Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 is a 36-inch (914.4 mm) chassis interconnect cable designed specifically for the SLC 500 modular programmable controller system. As a rack interconnect cable, the 1746-C9 physically and electrically links two separate 1746-series chassis, extending the parallel backplane bus from one enclosure to the other . This allows the SLC 500 processor to address I/O modules in an expansion chassis as if they were located in the main rack, effectively increasing the total slot count of the control system without requiring a separate remote I/O network or additional communication hardware.

Within the SLC 500 ecosystem, the Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 serves a distinct and limited purpose. Unlike Ethernet or DH-485 communication cables that enable distributed control across a plant, the 1746-C9 is strictly a local expansion cable. It carries the high-speed parallel backplane signals and power rails between adjacent chassis mounted within the same control enclosure . The cable’s 36-inch length accommodates chassis spacing from 6 to 36 inches within the cabinet, making it suitable for both stacked vertical arrangements and side-by-side horizontal configurations .

The 1746-C9 is compatible with the full range of SLC 500 modular chassis, including the 1746-A4, 1746-A7, 1746-A10, and 1746-A13 models . Any combination of these chassis can be interconnected, allowing designers to build systems that match their exact I/O count requirements. The cable features keyed connectors that prevent incorrect orientation during installation, and rigid shrink-wrap strain relief at both connector ends protects the termination points from mechanical stress over the system‘s service life .

Rockwell Automation officially discontinued the 1746-C9 on December 31, 2022, with no planned replacement . Despite this EOL status, the Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 remains in active demand as a critical spare for the substantial installed base of SLC 500 systems. Facilities operating legacy SLC 500 control systems in manufacturing, water treatment, and material handling rely on the 1746-C9 for system expansion and repair, making it an essential component for maintaining these proven automation platforms .

Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 SLC 500 Rack Interconnect Cable – 36-Inch Chassis Expansion插图

 

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name Parameter Value
Product Model 1746-C9
Manufacturer Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation)
Product Type Chassis Interconnect Cable (Rack Interconnect)
Product Series SLC 500
Cable Length 36 inches (3 ft / 914.4 mm)
Compatible Chassis 1746-A4, 1746-A7, 1746-A10, 1746-A13
Connector Type Keyed, high-density backplane connectors
Backplane Current (5V) 110 mA
Backplane Current (24V) 85 mA
Cable Construction Ribbon-style with rigid shrink-wrap strain relief
Maximum Chassis Spacing 5 inches for stacked 13-slot chassis
Recommended Clearance Minimum 4 inches around cable
Installation Orientation Horizontal or vertical within enclosure
Connection Hardware 1746-RT32
Operating Temperature -20°C to +60°C
Certifications UL, CE
Weight Approx. 0.03 kg

 

Main Features and Advantages

Extends SLC 500 Backplane for Modular Expansion: The Allen-Bradley 1746-C9 enables the SLC 500 processor to address I/O modules in a second chassis through the same parallel backplane architecture used in the main rack. This eliminates the need for a separate remote I/O scanner and adapter pair when the only requirement is additional local slot capacity. For facilities that have outgrown their original 4, 7, or 10-slot chassis, the 1746-C9 provides a straightforward, low-latency expansion path that preserves the system’s scan time performance without introducing network communication overhead.

Keyed Connectors Prevent Installation Errors: Both ends of the 1746-C9 feature keyed connectors designed to ensure correct orientation during installation . In a control cabinet where multiple ribbon cables may be present, this mechanical keying is a critical safeguard against misconnection that could damage backplane circuitry. The connectors also include locking latches that secure the cable in place and prevent accidental disconnection from vibration or handling.

Reinforced Strain Relief at Termination Points: The 1746-C9 incorporates rigid shrink-wrap at both connector ends, providing strain relief where the flexible ribbon transitions to the rigid connector housing . This design detail addresses the most common failure mode of ribbon cables in industrial environments: conductor fatigue at the connector interface. By distributing mechanical stress away from the delicate solder joints, the 1746-C9 maintains reliable electrical continuity over years of service.

Flexible Ribbon Design for Cabinet Routing: While the connector ends are rigid, the central portion of the 1746-C9 uses a flexible ribbon construction that simplifies routing within confined control panel spaces . The cable can bend around obstructions and follow the natural contours of the enclosure, reducing installation time and avoiding the need to relocate components solely to accommodate cable routing. The recommended minimum clearance of 4 inches around the cable ensures adequate bend radius for long-term reliability .

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