Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 Series A is a SLC 500 digital contact output module designed for industrial automation systems requiring high-current relay switching. This module features 8 normally open (N.O.) isolated relay contacts that can independently control both AC and DC loads across a wide voltage range. Built for rugged switching applications in manufacturing, packaging, material handling, and process control environments, the 1746-OX8 delivers reliable electrical isolation and noise immunity for legacy SLC 500 platforms.
Key Features
- 8 Individually Isolated Relay Outputs: Each relay contact is electrically isolated for mixed-voltage load switching and superior noise rejection.
- Wide Operating Voltage Range: Supports 5–265 VAC (50/60 Hz) or 5–125 VDC, enabling flexible compatibility with diverse field devices.
- High-Current Rated Contacts: Maximum 30 A make/break at 120V AC; continuous 2.5 A at 120/240V AC; 1.2 A at 24V DC.
- 1500V Optical Isolation: Ensures robust separation between field wiring and control logic, minimizing cross-talk and EMI interference.
- Status Indicators: Built-in LED indicators provide real-time relay on/off feedback for troubleshooting.
- Industrial Certifications: UL, CSA, and CE certified for hazardous and non-hazardous locations; NEMA ICS 2-230 noise immunity rating.
Technical Specifications
- Output Voltage Range (AC): 5–265 VAC, 50/60 Hz
- Output Voltage Range (DC): 5–125 VDC
- Number of Outputs: 8 normally open relay contacts
- Contact Rating (120V AC): 30 A make, 30 A break
- Contact Rating (240V AC): 15 A make, 1.5 A break
- Contact Rating (24V DC): 1.2 A make, 1.2 A break
- Contact Rating (125V DC): 0.22 A make, 0.22 A break
- Continuous Current per Point: 2.5 A at 120/240V AC; 1 A at 125V DC; 2 A at 24V DC
- Signal Delay: 10 ms (ON); 10 ms (OFF) at maximum resistive load
- Backplane Current (5V DC): 85 mA
- Backplane Current (24V DC): 90 mA
- Heat Dissipation per Point: 0.825 W
- Total Module Dissipation: 8.60 W (all outputs energized); 2.59 W (minimum)
- Operating Temperature Range: 0–60°C (32–140°F)
- Storage Temperature Range: −40–85°C (−40–185°F)
- Operating Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
- Isolation Voltage: 1500V between I/O terminals and control logic
- Noise Immunity Standard: NEMA ICS 2-230
- Operating Vibration: 0.015″ displacement at 5–57 Hz; 2.5 g at 57–2000 Hz
- Operating Shock: 10 g
- Enclosure Type: Open (rack/chassis mounted)
- Certifications: UL, CSA, CE; Class 1, Division 2 hazardous location endorsement
- Series: SLC 500 (1746 family)
Typical Applications
- Motor and Drive Control: Switching AC and DC motor starters, soft starters, and variable frequency drives via isolated relay contacts.
- Solenoid Valve Actuation: Control hydraulic and pneumatic solenoids across multiple voltage systems without common return paths.
- Indicator Lamps and Horns: Drive visual and audible alarm devices in packaging, automotive, and food processing lines.
- Equipment Interlocks: Manage safety interlocks for machine guards, presence sensing, and emergency shutdown circuits.
- Load Shedding and Power Distribution: Switch heating elements, compressors, and auxiliary loads in process control and facility management.
- Legacy System Integration: Retrofit and maintain existing SLC 500 installations requiring high-current relay switching without platform migration.
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley SLC 500 processors (all models)
- SLC 500 Series modular chassis: 1746-A2, 1746-A4, 1746-A7, 1746-A10, 1746-A13
- RSLogix 500 programming software
- ProfiNet and EtherNet/IP protocols (via communication modules)
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- 1746-OX8 Series B (backward compatible)
- Previous generation isolated relay output modules in legacy SLC 500 configurations
Works With
- RSLogix 500 programming and documentation
- SLC 500 family I/O and communication modules
- Standard industrial relay circuits, motor starters, and field devices
- Both AC and DC load switching ecosystems


















