Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1791-16BC is a discrete block I/O module designed for remote I/O distribution in industrial control systems. This self-contained unit combines a power supply, communication interface, and 16 isolated input/output channels in a rugged package suitable for on-machine mounting or distributed I/O architectures. The 1791-16BC eliminates the need for external racks and adapters, making it ideal for retrofit applications and space-constrained environments.
Key Features
- 16 DC inputs and 16 DC outputs (32 total I/O points)
- 10–30 VDC operating voltage range for inputs and outputs
- 300 mA typical supply current draw
- 500 mA output current per channel (horizontal mount); 250 mA (vertical mount)
- 3 Amp surge capacity for 50 milliseconds
- IP66 rated enclosure for wet, dusty, or on-machine environments
- Individual LED status indicators for each I/O channel
- Terminal strip wiring for fast field installation
- Remote I/O daisy-chain communication topology
- Supported baud rates: 57.6K, 115.2K, up to 230.4K
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 1791-16BC Series B
- Input Channels: 16 DC inputs
- Output Channels: 16 DC outputs
- I/O Voltage Range: 10–30 VDC
- Input Current (impedance): 11 mA at 3.4K Ohms
- Output Current Rating: 500 mA (vertical), 250 mA (horizontal)
- Surge Current: 3 Amps for 50 milliseconds
- External Power Supply: 19.2–30 VDC
- Supply Current: 300 mA typical
- Power Dissipation: Maximum 17.8 Watts
- Dimensions: 6.95″ H × 4.35″ W × 3.85″ D
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- Enclosure Rating: IP66
- Communication: Remote I/O adapter mode (daisy-chain)
- Baud Rates: 57.6K, 115.2K, 230.4K
Typical Applications
- Distributed I/O for factory machinery and assembly equipment
- Remote sensor and actuator connectivity over Remote I/O networks
- On-machine I/O blocks for motion control and process automation
- Retrofit applications requiring compact, self-contained I/O solutions
- Wet, dusty, or harsh environments (IP66 rated)
- Cable runs up to 10,000 feet at 57.6K baud or 2,500 feet at 230.4K baud
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley PLC-5/11, PLC-5/15, PLC-5/20, PLC-5/25, PLC-5/30, PLC-5/40, PLC-5/40L, PLC-5/60, PLC-5/60L processors
- SLC 5000 series with Remote I/O scanner
- PLC-2 and PLC-3 systems with Remote I/O adapter
- Remote I/O networks and daisy-chain topologies
- Allen-Bradley communication modules and adapters
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Other 16×16 remote I/O block modules in legacy Allen-Bradley systems
- Verify compatibility with your system integrator before ordering
Works With
- Allen-Bradley Remote I/O protocol (57.6K–230.4K baud)
- PLC-5 and SLC-500 ladder logic programming
- RSLogix 5 software for programming and configuration
- Remote I/O cable assemblies and connectors
- Standard 10–30 VDC power supplies
