Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OW8 is a Series A SLC 500 digital contact output module designed for relay-based output control in industrial automation systems. This 8-point module features normally open (N.O.) relay contacts and supports dual-voltage operation, making it ideal for applications requiring flexible AC/DC output capability. With two independent output groups of 4 channels each, the 1746-OW8 allows different voltage levels to be controlled simultaneously, eliminating the need for external interposing relays and saving valuable panel space.
Key Features
- 8 points of normally open (N.O.) relay contact outputs
- Dual-voltage operation: 5–125 VDC and 5–265 VAC at 47–63 Hz
- Two output groups with 4 channels per common for independent voltage control
- Contact ratings: 15 A at 120 VAC, 7.5 A at 240 VAC
- Low backplane current: 85 mA at 5V DC, 90 mA at 24V DC
- Compact single-slot chassis mounting
- Class 1, Division 2 rated for hazardous environments
- Optical isolation with filter circuitry for noise reduction
- Signal delay: 10.0 ms maximum for ON/OFF transitions
Technical Specifications
- Output Type: Relay contact (normally open)
- Output Points: 8 (2 groups × 4 channels)
- Output Voltage Range: 5–125 VDC; 5–265 VAC
- AC Frequency: 47–63 Hz
- Max Continuous Current: 16 A per module, 8 A per group
- Contact Ratings: 15 A @ 120 VAC; 7.5 A @ 240 VAC
- Backplane Current (5V DC): 85 mA
- Backplane Current (24V DC): 90 mA
- Max Heat Dissipation: 3.7 W (0.138 W per point)
- Operating Temperature: −25 to +60°C (−13 to +140°F)
- Non-Operating Temperature: −40 to +85°C (−40 to +185°F)
- Operating Humidity: 5–95% (non-condensing)
- Operating Vibration: 2g at 10–500 Hz
- Operating Shock: 30g
- Isolation: 500 VDC (communication circuits); 1500 VAC (backplane)
- Mounting: Standard SLC 500 I/O chassis slot
- Certifications: Class 1, Division 2; EN/IEC 0664-1 Pollution 2
Typical Applications
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OW8 is widely deployed in:
- Material Handling: Conveyor systems, overhead cranes, and sortation equipment control
- Packaging Machinery: Fillers, cappers, labelers, and case packers
- Automotive Manufacturing: Robotic arm control, welding equipment sequencing, and assembly line conveyors
- HVAC and Process Control: Valve and pump actuation, motor starter control
- Machine Tool Control: Multi-voltage actuator and solenoid control without additional relay banks
- Hybrid Voltage Systems: Applications requiring simultaneous 24V DC and 120/240V AC outputs
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- SLC 500 fixed and modular processors (SLC 5/01, SLC 5/02, SLC 5/03, SLC 5/04, SLC 5/05)
- SLC 500 I/O chassis and racks (single-slot installation)
- Remote I/O topology (requires communication adapter in slot 0)
- RSLogix 500 programming software
- Rockwell Automation network integration
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
The 1746-OW8 is a direct replacement for other Series A 8-point relay output modules in SLC 500 legacy systems. Verify exact model compatibility with your documentation or system integrator before ordering.
Works With
- RSLogix 500 and Studio 5000 Logix Designer (legacy support)
- Removable terminal block connectors for field wiring
- Surge suppression devices (recommended for inductive loads)
- Standard SLC 500 chassis and backplane communication protocols
