Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OW16 is a digital relay output module designed for the SLC 500 modular controller family. This 16-point normally open relay output module provides hardware-isolated outputs with dual common points (8 points per common), enabling flexible circuit configurations for industrial automation applications. The module operates across a wide voltage range and integrates seamlessly into existing SLC 500 systems.
Key Features
- 16 Isolated Relay Outputs: Normally open (N.O.) configuration with 8 points per common for independent circuit control
- Wide Voltage Support: 5 to 125V DC and 5 to 265V AC operation at 47–63 Hz
- Fast Signal Response: Maximum 10-millisecond delay for resistive load on and off states
- Efficient Power Consumption: 0.170 Amps at 5V DC and 0.180 Amps at 24V DC backplane current
- Plug-and-Play Installation: Chassis mounting with standard connector interface for quick field replacement
- Robust Load Handling: Minimum 10 mA load current requirement at 5V DC with maximum 10W per point power rating
Technical Specifications
- Output Type: 16 Relay Contact (Normally Open)
- Voltage Range (AC): 5–265V AC, 47–63 Hz
- Voltage Range (DC): 5–125V DC
- Output Points per Common: 8
- Operating Temperature: 0–60°C
- Backplane Current Consumption (5V): 170 mA
- Backplane Current Consumption (24V): 180 mA
- Watts per Output Point: 0.033 W
- Mounting Type: Chassis (standard SLC 500 backplane)
- Signal Delay: On = 1 ms, Off = 11.0 ms (maximum, resistive load)
- Off-State Leakage: 2 mA maximum
- Connection Type: Screw terminal
Typical Applications
The SLC 500 family supports material handling, HVAC control, high-speed assembly operations, small process control, simple motion control, and SCADA applications. The 1746-OW16 relay output module is commonly used for:
- Motor control and contactor switching
- Solenoid valve activation
- Indicator lamp and alarm circuits
- Hard-contact switching for AC and DC loads
- Equipment enable/disable control in automated systems
- Backup contact output in critical safety circuits
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley SLC 500 fixed and modular processors
- SLC 5/01, SLC 5/02, SLC 5/03, SLC 5/04, and SLC 5/05 controllers
- Standard SLC 500 I/O chassis and backplane configurations
- RSLogix 500 programming software for configuration and monitoring
- Industrial control systems supporting SLC 500 chassis-mounted I/O modules
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- 1746-OW16 Series A, B, and earlier revisions (confirm series compatibility with your system integrator)
- Available in Series C revision as listed in this product
- Verify compatibility with your existing system before ordering
Works With
- RSLogix 500: Program and configure output logic
- Allen-Bradley Studio 5000: Legacy SLC 500 project migration and support
- SLC 500 Modular Hardware: Publication 1747-UM011 documentation and configuration guides
- Standard PLC control networks: ControlNet, DeviceNet, and I/O scanner modules (when paired with appropriate interface modules)
- Third-party HMI platforms: Compatible with any system reading SLC 500 image table memory
