Description:The Allen-Bradley 1788-EN2DN/A is an industrial communication gateway (Linking Device) that bridges EtherNet/IP and DeviceNet networks. It allows modern Logix controllers (via Ethernet) to control and configure legacy DeviceNet devices (sensors, drives, I/O blocks) without changing the existing field wiring. The module acts as a DeviceNet Scanner on one side and an EtherNet/IP Adapter on the other, providing seamless CIP protocol conversion for real-time I/O and explicit messaging.Application Scenarios:An automotive assembly plant upgraded its control backbone to EtherNet/IP using CompactLogix 5380 controllers, but the existing DeviceNet network with hundreds of photoelectric sensors and valve manifolds was still operational. By deploying the 1788-EN2DN/A as a gateway, engineers integrated the old DeviceNet devices directly into the new Studio 5000 project. The module mapped the DeviceNet I/O data into the controller’s tag database, allowing the new PLC to read sensor status and control valves as if they were native Ethernet devices, saving significant rewiring costs and downtime.
Parameter:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Model | 1788-EN2DN / 1788-EN2DN/A (Revision) |
| Manufacturer | Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) |
| Product Category | Network Linking Device / Protocol Gateway |
| Upper Network | EtherNet/IP (10/100 Mbps, RJ45) |
| Lower Network | DeviceNet (125/250/500 kbps, Mini-Style Connectors) |
| DeviceNet Capacity | Up to 63 Nodes (Slave Devices) |
| I/O Data Capacity | Input: ~496 bytes, Output: ~492 bytes (Varies by config) |
| Power Supply | 24V DC (External, via 4-pin Mini-Combicon) |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Isolation Voltage | 50V Continuous (Basic Insulation) |
| Mounting | 35 mm DIN Rail |
| Configuration | RSNetWorx for DeviceNet, Studio 5000 |
| Certifications | cULus, CE, KC, ODVA Conformant |
Technical Principles and Innovative Values:
- Innovation Point 1: Dual-Stack CIP Architecture: The 1788-EN2DN/A is not a simple protocol translator; it implements the full CIP (Common Industrial Protocol) stack on both interfaces. This allows it to appear as a single EtherNet/IP Adapter to the PLC while simultaneously acting as a DeviceNet Master (Scanner). The I/O data from DeviceNet slaves is automatically mapped into the EtherNet/IP connection, making the underlying network transparent to the programmer.
- Innovation Point 2: Remote Device Management: Unlike a basic bridge, the module enables RSNetWorx for DeviceNet to run over the EtherNet/IP network. Engineers can sit at a workstation on the plant’s Ethernet backbone and remotely browse, configure, and troubleshoot every DeviceNet device connected to the 1788-EN2DN/A, eliminating the need for a laptop connection at the machine panel.
- Innovation Point 3: Legacy Asset Protection: This device is a strategic tool for brownfield modernization. It allows factories to extend the life of their reliable DeviceNet assets (which are often deeply embedded in machinery) while migrating the control backbone to a modern EtherNet/IP architecture. This provides a cost-effective migration path without the “rip-and-replace” risk.
