Overview
The Escort Memory Systems CM1746 is an RFID communications interface module that integrates RFID systems into Allen-Bradley’s 1746 I/O backplane and SLC 500 PLCs. This module runs a high-speed RFID controller with built-in Mux32 RS-485 multidrop protocol for connecting RFID tags, antennas, readers, and serial devices directly to your PLC. Widely used in manufacturing, warehouse automation, and asset tracking applications, the CM1746 brings industrial RFID capability to legacy and deployed SLC 500 systems.
Key Features
- Two Read/Write RFID antenna ports for active tag communication
- 25 MHz i386 microprocessor with DOS-compatible real-time operating system
- 512KB Flash memory and 512KB RAM for program and data storage
- Two general-purpose serial ports (configurable as RS232, RS422, or RS485)
- Mux32 protocol supports up to 32 networked Read-Only readers or serial devices
- Optical isolation for noise immunity in industrial environments
- Two industrial-level digital I/O lines and LED status indicators
- Standard ladder logic programming via RSLogix or custom C language development
Technical Specifications
- Processor: 25 MHz i386
- Flash Memory: 512KB
- RAM: 512KB
- PLC Supply Voltage: 5VDC ±5% (backplane-supplied), 600mA maximum
- External Supply Voltage: 24VDC ±15%, 125mA average / 250mA peak
- Ripple: 2.0% maximum of DC voltage
- RFID Antenna Ports: Two Read/Write ports
- Serial Ports: Two (COM1, COM2)
- Serial Configuration: RS232, RS422, or RS485 selectable per port
- Digital I/O: Two industrial-level inputs/outputs
- Operating System: DOS-compatible real-time OS
- Mounting: 1746 backplane connector for SLC 500 chassis
- Enclosure Rating: NEMA 1 (IP30)
- Compatible Platform: Allen-Bradley SLC 500
Typical Applications
The Escort Memory Systems CM1746 is ideal for:
- Manufacturing and production line asset tracking
- Warehouse and inventory management with RFID tag identification
- Automated material handling and work-in-process (WIP) monitoring
- Integration of legacy SLC 500 systems with modern RFID solutions
- Multi-reader RFID networks using Mux32 protocol (up to 32 readers)
- Custom automation applications requiring serial RFID device communication
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley SLC 500 PLCs
- 1746 I/O backplane chassis
- Escort Memory Systems (EMS) Read/Write RFID antennas and tags
- EMS Read-Only readers and passive reader/writers
- RS-485 serial devices via Mux32 multidrop protocol
- RSLogix 500 programming software
- Standard ladder logic and custom C language programs
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
The CM1746 is a direct interface module for SLC 500 systems and does not have direct replacements. Verify compatibility with your system integrator before ordering to ensure proper integration with your existing RFID infrastructure and PLC configuration.
Works With
- RSLogix 500 (ladder logic programming)
- Custom C language development for advanced applications
- EMS Mux32 RS-485 multidrop protocol for multi-reader networks
- RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 serial communications
- Escort Memory Systems RFID tag and reader ecosystem
