Purchase now: Allen Bradley 1747-KFC15 Interface Module
Purchase now: Atlantechdrives provides you the 1747-KFC15, an advanced ControlNet RS-232 Interface Module developed by Allen Bradley for the SLC 500 automation platform. While modern control networks rely heavily on Ethernet, many robust, legacy industrial environments utilize ControlNet for its deterministic, high-speed, and highly reliable data transfer capabilities. The 1747-KFC15 serves as a critical communication bridge, allowing devices equipped only with standard RS-232 serial ports (utilizing the DF1 protocol) to interface directly with a ControlNet network. This makes it an indispensable tool for integrating legacy operator interfaces (HMIs), third-party serial ASCII devices, or providing a direct programming terminal connection for an engineering laptop that lacks a dedicated ControlNet PCMCIA or PCI network card.
Technical Specifications of the 1747-KFC15
The 1747-KFC15 is a single-slot module that draws power from the 1746 backplane but operates independently as a communication gateway. It features multiple connection points, including a standard DB-9 RS-232 port, a BNC connector for the ControlNet coaxial media, and a dedicated Network Access Port (NAP).
- Part Number: 1747-KFC15
- Module Type: ControlNet RS-232 Interface Module
- Compatible System: Allen Bradley SLC 500 (1746 Chassis)
- Serial Protocol: RS-232 DF1 (Full-Duplex or Half-Duplex)
- Network Protocol: ControlNet (Coaxial media)
- Network Access Port (NAP): 8-pin mini-DIN connector
- Backplane Current Draw: 150 mA at 5V DC, 40 mA at 24V DC
- Operating Temperature: 0 to 60°C
Expert Tips: Utilizing the Network Access Port (NAP)
One of the most valuable features of the 1747-KFC15 is often overlooked by field technicians. Expert Tip: The module includes an 8-pin mini-DIN Network Access Port (NAP) located on the front panel. ControlNet networks use strict coaxial tap connections; breaking a coaxial line to plug in a laptop will disrupt the entire network and halt production. The NAP allows an engineer to plug a programming terminal directly into the 1747-KFC15 (using an appropriate NAP cable) to gain full, transparent access to the entire ControlNet network without disturbing the physical BNC coaxial wiring. This allows for safe, real-time troubleshooting and online programming of other nodes on the network without risking a plant-wide communication fault.
Installation Advice: DF1 Driver Configuration
When connecting a PC to the RS-232 port of the 1747-KFC15 to bridge onto ControlNet, you must properly configure your RSLinx communication drivers. Ensure you use a null-modem serial cable (like the 1747-CP3). In RSLinx, select the «RS-232 DF1 devices» driver, choose the correct COM port, and select the device type as «1770-KF2/1785-KE/1747-KFC15». If you use the Auto-Configure button, RSLinx should automatically negotiate the baud rate and parity to match the module’s internal settings, establishing the bridge to your ControlNet nodes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the 1747-KFC15 act as a ControlNet scanner to control I/O modules?
A: No. The 1747-KFC15 is strictly an interface/messaging module used for bridging serial data and programming terminals onto ControlNet. It cannot control distributed I/O. For I/O control, you must use the 1747-SCNR module.
Q: Does this module support redundant ControlNet media?
A: No. The 1747-KFC15 features a single BNC connector for non-redundant ControlNet connections. If your network requires redundant cabling (Channel A and Channel B), this interface module will only connect to one of the channels.
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To bridge ControlNet communication between your PC and the PLC network, this module often works alongside the 1756-CN2 bridge module.
