Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16 is a digital AC output module engineered for the SLC 500 family of programmable logic controllers. This 16-point output module provides general-purpose AC signal switching across two common groups (8 points per common), making it suitable for discrete control applications in manufacturing, material handling, and HVAC systems. The module operates within an industry-standard 85–265 VAC range at 47–63 Hz, ensuring compatibility across regional power variations.
Key Features
- 16 discrete outputs organized into 2 groups of 8 points per common
- Operates at 120/240 VAC nominal with wide input range (85–265 VAC, 47–63 Hz)
- Rated output current: 0.5 A per point at 30°C; 0.25 A per point at 60°C
- Compact DIN-rail mounting form factor for standard SLC 500 I/O racks
- Electronic triac-based output switching with 1 ms typical on-delay and 11 ms off-delay
- Backplane current consumption: 370 mA at 5 VDC
Technical Specifications
The 1746-OA16 is optimized for stable, repeatable output control:
- Output Voltage: 120/240 VAC nominal
- Operating Voltage Range: 85–265 VAC at 47–63 Hz
- Number of Outputs: 16 (8 per common, 2 commons)
- Rated Output Current: 0.5 A @ 30°C; 0.25 A @ 60°C per point
- Maximum Output Current: 8.0 A @ 30°C; 4.0 A @ 60°C per point
- Signal Delay (max resistive load): On = 1 ms; Off = 11 ms
- Off-State Leakage Current: 2 mA maximum
- Backplane Current (5 VDC): 370 mA
- Minimum Load Current: 10 mA per output
- Series: C (also available in Series B and D)
- Status: Discontinued (effective December 1, 2022)
Typical Applications
The 1746-OA16 excels in discrete automation control scenarios, including:
- Material handling conveyor and motor control circuits
- HVAC equipment switching and relay coil actuation
- Small to mid-scale assembly line output control
- Pump and fan motor contactor control
- Indicator lamp and alarm circuit activation
- Process equipment auxiliary device switching
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- SLC 500 processor family (all models)
- 1746 I/O rack backplane (fixed and modular configurations)
- Allen-Bradley standard I/O connector kits and module-ready cables
- Industrial 120 VAC and 240 VAC power supplies
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
The 1746-OA16 Series C directly replaces earlier Series A and B versions of the same model number. No other Allen-Bradley output modules are direct mechanical or electrical substitutes; verify your system integrator’s compatibility assessment if upgrading from other model lines (such as 1746-OA8, 1746-OB16, or newer CompactLogix alternatives).
Works With
- Allen-Bradley RSLogix 500 programming and configuration software
- Studio 5000 (for legacy system documentation and migration planning)
- SLC 500 control systems running discrete automation logic
- Modbus and standard industrial Ethernet gateways (via separate gateway modules)
