Frequently Asked Questions
What is Allen-Bradley 1746-NIO4V?
Allen-Bradley 1746-NIO4V is a four-channel combination analog I/O module for SLC 500 programmable controllers. It provides two differential analog inputs selectable for voltage or current signals and two bipolar analog voltage outputs.
How many analog input and output channels does 1746-NIO4V have?
The module includes two analog input channels and two analog output channels, for four total analog channels. Unlike a four-output-only module, the 1746-NIO4V supports both signal acquisition and analog output control in one chassis slot.
What input signal ranges does 1746-NIO4V support?
Each input channel can be configured for a normal voltage range of -10 to +10 VDC or a current range of -20 to +20 mA. Common narrower signal ranges can be interpreted through appropriate PLC scaling and wiring.
Can 1746-NIO4V read 4-20mA transmitters?
Yes. A 4-20 mA signal falls within the module's supported current input range. The input channel must be selected for current operation, wired according to the applicable transmitter configuration and scaled correctly in the SLC 500 program.
What output signal does 1746-NIO4V generate?
The two output channels generate analog voltage signals across a normal range of -10 to +10 VDC. The module does not provide analog current outputs. Applications requiring current output should use a compatible current-output module.
What is the difference between 1746-NIO4V and 1746-NIO4I?
Both modules provide two selectable voltage or current analog inputs. The 1746-NIO4V has two -10 to +10 VDC voltage outputs, while the 1746-NIO4I has two 0-20 mA current outputs. These output configurations are not interchangeable without evaluating the connected devices and PLC application.
What are the input and output resolutions?
The analog inputs use 16-bit conversion with nominal resolution of 305.176 µV per LSB in voltage mode or 1.22070 µA per LSB in current mode. The voltage outputs use 14-bit conversion with a nominal resolution of 1.22070 mV per LSB.
What are the analog voltage output load requirements?
The voltage outputs support load resistance from 1 kΩ upward, with a maximum output load current of 10 mA and maximum load reactance of 1 µF. The connected field equipment must remain within these electrical limits.
Does 1746-NIO4V require an external 24VDC power supply?
No separate external 24 VDC supply is specified for standard 1746-NIO4V module operation. It draws power from the compatible SLC 500 backplane, with maximum current requirements of 55 mA at 5 VDC and 115 mA at 24 VDC. Field instruments may require their own power supplies.
Are the analog channels individually isolated?
No. The two differential input channels and the two voltage output channels are not individually isolated. The module provides 500 VDC isolation between field wiring and the SLC backplane. Proper shielding, grounding and signal routing are important.
Is Allen-Bradley 1746-NIO4V discontinued?
Yes. Rockwell Automation lists the 1746-NIO4V as discontinued effective April 29, 2021, with an Engineering Replacement classification. A modernization project may require changes to controller hardware, wiring, analog scaling and programming rather than a direct module substitution.
What should be checked before ordering 1746-NIO4V?
Verify the exact catalog number 1746-NIO4V, SLC 500 chassis and processor compatibility, two input and two output channel configuration, voltage or current input switch settings, -10 to +10 VDC output requirements, 16-bit input and 14-bit output conversion, 5 VDC and 24 VDC backplane current budget, terminal block condition, analog wiring, grounding, signal scaling and the manufacturer's discontinued product status. Confirm the existing PLC program and slot assignment before replacing the module.