The Allen-Bradley 1746-A13, also cataloged as the 1746-A13 SLC 13 Slots Chassis, operates as a dedicated hardware component for mounting and powering SLC 500 I/O modules within the SLC 500 backplane system. The chassis provides module slots, DC power distribution, and backplane communication support.

Model Identification

The 1746-A13 is a fixed 13-slot chassis assembly designed for SLC 500 controllers and I/O expansion modules. The unit supports panel mounting and provides the physical structure required for installing compatible 1746 series modules.

Hardware Specifications

Industrial Control Platform Compatibility

The 1746-A13 chassis uses the SLC 500 backplane architecture for communication between installed processor modules, communication modules, and I/O modules. The chassis provides the physical bus structure required for deterministic module-to-module data exchange.

The SLC 500 platform uses a modular I/O density approach, allowing different input, output, analog, and communication modules to be installed according to application requirements. The chassis design maintains backplane bus communication velocity and module addressing consistency within the controller rack.

Ordering Information

• 1 x Allen-Bradley 1746-A13 SLC 500 13 Slot Chassis
• 1 x Installed chassis backplane assembly
• 1 x Mounting structure for panel installation

Additional SLC 500 processor modules, power supplies, communication modules, and I/O modules are not included unless specified separately.

Field Installation Guidelines

Panel Mounting

• Install the chassis on a rigid control panel surface using suitable mechanical fasteners.
• Maintain sufficient clearance around the chassis for module insertion and wiring access.
• Verify the enclosure environment meets the required protection level for installed equipment.

Electrical Connection

• Confirm the DC power supply rating before connecting chassis power terminals.
• Ensure the backplane power loading remains within the specified current capacity.
• Use proper grounding practices for the control cabinet and mounting panel.

Module Installation

• Insert compatible 1746 series modules into the chassis slots with power removed.
• Check module keying and alignment before applying mechanical force.
• Verify all modules are fully seated before system startup.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can the 1746-A13 chassis support SLC 500 I/O modules?

Yes. The chassis is designed for mounting compatible Allen-Bradley SLC 500 1746 series processor, communication, and I/O modules.

• How many modules can be installed on the 1746-A13?

The chassis provides 13 available slots for SLC 500 system modules.

• What is the backplane current capacity of the chassis?

The chassis supports 5.1 VDC at 10 A and 24 VDC at 2.88 A for installed SLC 500 modules.

• Is the 1746-A13 chassis designed for panel mounting?

Yes. The chassis uses a panel mount configuration for installation inside industrial control cabinets.

• Does the chassis include a power supply?

The chassis provides the backplane structure and power distribution interface. A compatible SLC 500 power supply is required separately.

• Can modules be replaced while the system is powered?

Hot-swapping is not specified for this chassis. Module replacement should normally be performed with power removed.

• What communication method does the chassis use?

The chassis uses the SLC 500 backplane bus for communication between installed modules.

• What environmental temperature range is supported?

The operating temperature range is specified as 0 deg C to +60 deg C, with storage from -40 deg C to +85 deg C.