Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OW16 is a 16-point relay digital output module designed for SLC 500 programmable logic controllers. This electromechanical relay contact output module provides robust switching capability across a wide voltage range, supporting both AC and DC loads simultaneously through two independent groups of eight outputs. The module eliminates the need for external interposing relays in mixed-voltage applications, reducing panel complexity and wiring labor.
Key Features
- 16 Normally Open (N.O.) Relay Outputs — Two isolated groups of 8 points per common terminal enable independent AC and DC operation
- Mixed Voltage Support — AC range 5–265V, DC range 5–125V allow single module control across diverse load types
- High Contact Ratings — 15 A make / 1.5 A break at 120V AC; 7.5 A make / 0.75 A break at 240V AC; 1.2 A at 24V DC
- Fast Response — 10 ms signal delay on both ON and OFF states under resistive load
- Minimal Load Current — 10 mA requirement at 5V DC ensures reliable activation of low-power devices
- Standard SLC 500 Chassis Compatibility — Plugs into any available I/O slot (except Slot 0)
Technical Specifications
- Output Points: 16 (2 groups × 8)
- Output Type: N.O. relay contact
- Operating Voltage AC: 5–265V AC
- Operating Voltage DC: 5–125V DC
- Continuous Current (per output): 1.5 A @ 120V AC, 1.2 A @ 24V DC
- Continuous Current (per module): 16 A (8 A per common)
- Signal Delay: 10 ms (ON and OFF, resistive load)
- Backplane Current Draw: 170 mA @ 5V DC, 180 mA @ 24V DC
- Minimum Load Current: 10 mA @ 5V DC
- Off-State Leakage: 0 mA
- Enclosure Type: Open-style (IP20)
- Terminal Block: 1746-RT25C general-purpose removable orange terminal
- Certifications: UL, cULus, CE, CSA
Typical Applications
The 1746-OW16 is commonly deployed in manufacturing and process control environments where multi-voltage output switching is required:
- Pump and motor starter logic control circuits
- Solenoid valve switching (AC and DC coils)
- Alarm and indicator lamp control circuits
- Load shedding and interlock applications
- Mixed-voltage industrial automation systems reducing external relay logic cabinets
- Machine tool and assembly line control where AC and DC devices operate on the same PLC
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- SLC 500 programmable logic controllers
- SLC 500 modular chassis (any I/O slot except Slot 0)
- Studio 5000 software (ladder logic programming)
- RSLogix 500 legacy programming environment
- EtherNet/IP communication via appropriate bridges or gateways
- Mixed AC and DC load control systems
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OW16 Series A, B, C, D variants
- Earlier relay output modules with reduced output density (verify slot availability)
Works With
- RSLogix 500 ladder logic editor
- Studio 5000 Logix Designer
- 1746-RT25C removable terminal blocks
- SLC 500 CPU modules (1747-L511, 1747-L512, 1747-L514, 1747-L524, etc.)
- External surge suppression devices (recommended for voltage transient protection)
- Standard industrial 120V AC and 24V DC control circuits
