Order 1783-ETAP2F now for ultimate fiber optic network resilience
The Allen-Bradley 1783-ETAP2F is the premier EtherNet/IP tap designed for extreme industrial environments where absolute immunity to electromagnetic noise and long-distance communication are mandatory. By featuring two dedicated fiber optic network ports, this device allows you to construct a completely optical Device Level Ring (DLR) backbone, while still providing a localized copper connection to integrate a standard single-port PLC, HMI, or motor drive into the high-speed optical network.
Technical Specifications
- Network Ports: Two (2) 100Base-FX multimode fiber optic ports (LC connectors) for ring continuity.
- Device Port: One (1) 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet RJ45 copper port for local device connection.
- Fiber Range: Up to 2 km (1.24 miles) per optical link over 62.5/125 μm or 50/125 μm multimode fiber.
- Input Power: Dual redundant 24V DC inputs (10.8 to 27.6V DC).
- Power Consumption: Maximum of 6.0 W.
- Protocol Support: Fully transparent to CIP Sync and IEEE 1588 PTP.
Comprehensive Technical Overview
When deploying critical automation networks across vast facilities—such as steel mills, automotive stamping plants, or extensive chemical processing units—copper cabling is a profound liability. The 1783-ETAP2F eliminates this vulnerability by keeping the main network ring entirely on fiber optics. The two LC fiber ports allow the data to arrive optically, pass through the switch fabric to the local copper device, and depart optically to the next node in the ring. This provides absolute electrical isolation between different zones of the plant. If a massive electrical fault or lightning strike occurs in one sector, the optical isolation guarantees that the voltage spike cannot travel through the network cables to destroy equipment in other areas. Furthermore, the embedded DLR protocol ensures that if one of the fiber optic cables is severed by a forklift or machinery, the network heals itself in less than 3 milliseconds, preventing costly process shutdowns.
Expert Installation and Network Tuning
Installing a full fiber ring requires precise planning. With the 1783-ETAP2F, ensure that the optical loss budget is calculated accurately. Although the multimode fiber can technically reach 2 kilometers, multiple splices or patch panels between nodes will cause signal attenuation. We highly recommend utilizing an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) during commissioning to verify the integrity of all fiber runs. From a power perspective, this model draws slightly more current (6.0 W) than its copper counterparts to drive the optical transceivers; verify that your 24V DC power supply has adequate headroom to accommodate the load, especially during initial power-up surges.
Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
Optical ports are highly sensitive to particulate contamination. If you need to disconnect a fiber cable from the 1783-ETAP2F for maintenance, immediately cap both the cable end and the module transceiver. Ensure the ambient temperature inside the control panel does not exceed 60°C, as excessive heat can degrade the optical transceivers over time and cause premature failure of the LED emitters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the 1783-ETAP2F be used to convert a star topology network to fiber?
A: Yes, while optimized for DLR rings, it operates flawlessly as a media converter in a standard star or linear topology.
Q: How do I assign an IP address to this fiber tap?
A: You can assign an IP address for diagnostic purposes using BOOTP/DHCP or directly via Rockwell’s RSLinx software.
Q: Are the fiber ports hot-swappable?
A: The transceivers are integrated into the module; they are not hot-swappable SFP modules. The entire unit must be replaced if a transceiver fails.
Series Continuity & Integration
If your network design only requires optical isolation in one direction, you can seamlessly integrate the 1783-ETAP1F (1 fiber, 1 copper network port) into the same ring. For purely localized copper segments, utilize the standard 1783-ETAP.
Do you need more references from this brand? Explore our full catalog of Allen-Bradley here.
