Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16 is a discrete AC output module part of the SLC 500 control platform. It provides 16 general-purpose digital outputs configured as two groups of eight channels, each capable of switching 120/240VAC loads. The module operates across a wide input voltage range of 85-265VAC at 47-63 Hz, making it suitable for industrial applications where utility power tolerance is a concern. Though discontinued by the manufacturer, it remains in high demand for legacy system maintenance and upgrades.
Key Features
- 16 Output Channels: Two groups of 8 outputs each with shared commons for flexible wiring configurations
- Wide Voltage Support: 85-265VAC operating range accommodates utility power variations across regions
- LED Status Indicators: Individual LEDs provide real-time output status visibility for troubleshooting
- Screw Terminal Blocks: Removable terminal blocks allow field replacement without rewiring
- Optical Isolation: Built-in filter circuitry and optical coupling reduce electrical noise
- Compact Chassis Mount: Single-slot design for SLC 500 rack integration
Technical Specifications
- Output Voltage: 120/240VAC nominal; 85-265VAC operating range
- Number of Outputs: 16 digital (2 groups × 8 channels)
- Backplane Current: 370 mA @ 5V DC
- Signal Response Time: ON = 1 ms (max); OFF = 11 ms (max)
- Off-State Leakage Current: 2 mA (max)
- Minimum Load Current: 10 mA per point
- Continuous Output Current: 0.5A @ 30°C; 0.25A @ 60°C (per point)
- Maximum Output Current: 8.0A @ 30°C; 4.0A @ 60°C (per point)
- Operating Temperature: 0–60°C (32–140°F)
- Frequency: 47–63 Hz
- Mounting: Rack mount (single slot)
- Weight: 0.60 lbs
- Terminal Style: Screw clamp terminals
Typical Applications
The 1746-OA16 is well-suited for material handling systems, HVAC control, high-speed assembly operations, small process control, simple motion control, and SCADA applications. Its 16-output capacity and wide voltage tolerance make it ideal for controlling solenoids, motor starters, indicator lights, and other AC-switched devices in legacy manufacturing environments.
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- SLC 500 fixed and modular processors
- SLC 500 control chassis and racks
- CompactLogix and ControlLogix systems (as local or remote I/O)
- Ladder Logic programming in RSLogix 500
- 16-bit I/O memory addressing schemes
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16A
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16B
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16D
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16E
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16F
Works With
- RSLogix 500 programming software
- Allen-Bradley SLC 500 ecosystem
- Standard AC control circuits and motor starters
- Module-ready cables designed for 1746 family output modules
