Order now 1786-TPS to guarantee seamless connectivity and high-speed data integrity for your Allen-Bradley ControlNet segments. The 1786-TPS is a high-performance, straight-exit coaxial tap designed to serve as the primary interface between your 1786-RG6 trunk cable and the individual devices on your network. Unlike its right-angle counterparts, the straight-exit design of the 1786-TPS provides a direct, vertical path for the drop cable, which is ideal for deep control cabinets where cable verticality is preferred. This passive device is the cornerstone of any ControlNet physical layer, facilitating the «tapping» of the backbone without interrupting the signal flow. By using genuine 1786-TPS taps, you ensure that your industrial network meets the strict 75-ohm impedance matching required for 5 Mbps deterministic communication, effectively eliminating the noise and packet loss associated with non-standard or worn-out connectors in heavy-duty manufacturing environments.
What Is the 1786-TPS?
The 1786-TPS is a passive coaxial tap used within the ControlNet media system. It acts as a T-junction that allows a device (node) to listen to and transmit on the main trunk line. The module contains precision-etched internal circuitry that manages signal splitting while maintaining a constant impedance across the trunk. It features three BNC female ports: two for the incoming and outgoing trunk cables and one for the drop cable. Because it is a passive component, the 1786-TPS does not require a power source, making it a robust and low-maintenance solution for distributed I/O systems and PLC networks in automotive, mining, and food processing industries.
Key Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 1786-TPS
- Manufacturer: Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
- Network Protocol: ControlNet
- Connector Type: Straight BNC Exit
- Impedance: 75 Ohms
- Compatible Media: RG-6 Quad-shielded Coax
- Insertion Loss: < 0.25 dB per tap
- Mounting Options: Universal bracket or DIN-rail adapter
- Frequency Range: Optimized for 5 MHz signaling
ControlNet Topology Integration
In a standard trunk-line/drop-line configuration, multiple 1786-TPS taps are distributed along the backbone. This architecture allows for the easy addition or removal of nodes without taking the entire network offline. The straight design of the 1786-TPS is often preferred in large-scale rack systems where cables are routed through top-entry conduits. This tap is essential for creating a deterministic communication path that supports both scheduled (I/O) and unscheduled (messaging) data traffic across up to 99 nodes.
Maintenance Tips
While the 1786-TPS is highly durable, it is susceptible to environmental contaminants such as oil mist or conductive dust. An essential maintenance tip is to periodically inspect the BNC connectors for oxidation or «pitting» on the center contact. If you notice a white or green powdery residue inside the BNC jack, clean it with an approved electronic contact cleaner immediately. Furthermore, during machine moves or cabinet vibration, ensure the BNC locking rings are fully engaged; a loose connection at the 1786-TPS is the leading cause of intermittent «Communication Timeouts» in ControlNet systems. Always protect unused ports with a 1786-XPC connector cap to keep out dust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1786-TPS compatible with fiber optic ControlNet systems?
A: No. The 1786-TPS is strictly for coaxial RG-6 media. If you are using fiber optics, you must utilize 1786-RPFM or 1786-RPFS repeater modules to interface with the network.
Q: Does the 1786-TPS include the mounting bracket?
A: Usually, the 1786-TPS is sold as the tap unit. While it has mounting holes, specialized DIN-rail brackets or universal mounting plates (1786-TMP) may need to be ordered separately depending on your cabinet requirements.
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