The Allen-Bradley 1746-IA16, also cataloged as the 1746-IA16 Digital Input Module, operates as a dedicated hardware component for acquiring 85-132 VAC discrete field signals within the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 control system. The module provides 16 AC input channels for SLC 500 backplane communication.

Model Identification

The 1746-IA16 is a 16 point AC digital input module designed for the SLC 500 modular controller platform. It receives ON/OFF field voltage signals within the specified AC input range and transfers input status data through the SLC 500 backplane.

Hardware Specifications

Industrial Control Platform Integration

The 1746-IA16 uses the SLC 500 backplane communication structure for deterministic transfer of digital input states between the I/O module and the processor unit. The module supports SLC 500 I/O density scaling by adding discrete input channels within the modular chassis configuration.

The Allen-Bradley SLC 500 architecture manages module addressing and data exchange through the backplane bus, allowing configured I/O modules to operate within the same controller rack.

Backplane Bus Communication Characteristics

The SLC 500 platform uses a dedicated backplane communication system for module data transfer. The 1746-IA16 receives field input signals, converts AC voltage states into controller-readable digital data, and transfers the processed status information through the chassis backplane.

Firmware compatibility and processor communication support depend on the installed SLC 500 controller hardware and system configuration.

Ordering Information

• 1 x Allen-Bradley 1746-IA16 SLC 500 16 Point AC Input Module
• 1 x Digital input module assembly
• 1 x Technical installation reference

The SLC 500 chassis, processor, power supply, terminal block, and communication modules are not included unless specified separately.

Field Installation Guidelines

Module Installation

• Install the module into a compatible Allen-Bradley SLC 500 chassis slot.
• Verify chassis power is removed before inserting or removing the module.
• Confirm module positioning and mechanical alignment before startup.

Field Wiring

• Connect AC field devices according to the module input voltage requirements.
• Separate AC input wiring from low voltage communication wiring where possible.
• Verify field signal voltage remains within the specified 85-132 VAC range.

System Configuration

• Confirm the processor configuration matches the installed I/O module type.
• Verify correct slot addressing before downloading the controller program.
• Check input status operation during commissioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many input channels are available on the 1746-IA16?

The module provides 16 digital AC input points for connection to discrete field devices.

• What input voltage does the 1746-IA16 accept?

The module accepts AC input signals from 85 VAC to 132 VAC with an operating frequency range of 47-63 Hz.

• Which controller platform uses the 1746-IA16?

The module is designed for the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 modular control platform.

• How does the module communicate with the processor?

The module transfers input data through the SLC 500 chassis backplane bus interface.

• Can the module be installed in any SLC 500 chassis slot?

Installation depends on the selected SLC 500 chassis configuration and controller system layout.

• Does the module provide analog signal measurement?

No. The 1746-IA16 is a discrete AC input module and provides ON/OFF signal detection only.

• Should power be removed before module replacement?

Yes. Power should normally be removed before installing or removing SLC 500 I/O modules.

• What type of field devices can connect to this module?

The module is designed for AC-powered discrete devices that provide compatible voltage switching signals.