Purchase now: Allen Bradley 1746-OB32 High-Density Output Module
Purchase now: Atlantechdrives provides you the 1746-OB32, the ultimate high-density digital DC output module designed by Allen Bradley for the SLC 500 automation platform. This module is an engineering marvel that packs 32 independent, solid-state 24V DC Sourcing outputs into a single, compact chassis slot. It is the perfect hardware solution for large-scale manufacturing facilities, complex packaging lines, and extensive material handling systems where control panel space is extremely limited but the I/O count is exceptionally high. By effectively replacing four standard 8-point modules or two 16-point modules, the 1746-OB32 significantly reduces your overall hardware footprint and backplane power consumption while maximizing the control capabilities of your SLC processor.
Technical Specifications of the 1746-OB32
The 1746-OB32 operates on standard 24V DC logic and utilizes a Sourcing electrical configuration, meaning it provides the positive voltage out to the field devices. Because of its extreme density, it requires specialized wiring solutions rather than standard screw terminals.
- Part Number: 1746-OB32
- Module Type: High-Density Digital DC Output
- Compatible System: SLC 500 (1746 Series)
- Number of Outputs: 32 Solid-State points (Two groups of 16)
- Operating Voltage: 10…30V DC
- Wiring Logic: Sourcing (Provides V+ to the load)
- Continuous Current per Point: 0.50 Amps at 30°C
- Signal Delay (Max): On: 0.1 ms, Off: 1.0 ms
- Backplane Current Draw: 190 mA at 5V DC
Expert Installation Advice: The 1492 Wiring System
Do not attempt to wire this module with loose cables. Expert Tip: Unlike the 8-point or 16-point modules that come with a standard Removable Terminal Block (RTB) with screw terminals on the front, the 1746-OB32 features a high-density 40-pin connector. To wire field devices to this module, you must use an Allen Bradley 1492 series pre-wired cable assembly (such as the 1492-CABLE010H) connected to a 1492 Interface Module (IFM) mounted on your DIN rail. Attempting to solder or individually pin the 40-pin connector on the factory floor is a recipe for wiring errors, short circuits, and catastrophic module failure. Always factor the 1492 IFM system into your panel build when upgrading to 32-point high-density cards.
Maintenance and Current Limitations
While the module boasts 32 points, you must respect its thermal limits. Each point can handle 0.5A, but the maximum continuous current for the entire module cannot exceed 8.0 Amps. If you turn on all 32 outputs simultaneously, the average current per point must drop to 0.25A to prevent the module from overheating. If your application requires turning on 32 high-draw solenoids at the exact same time, you should split the load across multiple 16-point modules instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does the 1746-OB32 have built-in electronic protection?
A: No. The standard OB32 module does not feature electronic short-circuit protection. You must fuse your field devices externally (typically at the 1492 IFM block) to protect the module’s solid-state transistors from factory floor shorts.
Q: Can I use this to control NPN (Sinking) devices?
A: No. As a Sourcing module, it provides +24V DC to the load. The load must then be grounded to the DC common. It is designed to actuate standard solenoids, relays, and PNP-compatible inputs on other devices.
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To manage high-density DC outputs, we recommend using a 32-point card within a 1746-A10 10-slot chassis for better organization.
