Frequently Asked Questions
What is Allen-Bradley 1746-NO4I?
Allen-Bradley 1746-NO4I is a four-channel analog current output module for the SLC 500 PLC platform. It provides current signals to compatible industrial field devices using a normal output range of 0-20 mA.
How many analog output channels does 1746-NO4I provide?
The module provides four analog current output channels. It does not include analog input channels and occupies one compatible SLC 500 I/O chassis slot.
What is the output signal range of 1746-NO4I?
The normal hardware output range is 0-20 mA, with a documented 5% overrange capability extending to approximately 21 mA. The module is designed for current output rather than voltage output applications.
Can 1746-NO4I be used for 4-20mA control applications?
Yes. A 4-20 mA operating span can be implemented through the PLC program's analog output scaling. This does not change the module's underlying 0-20 mA hardware range. Correct scaling and fault-response behavior should be verified before commissioning.
What is the difference between 1746-NO4I and 1746-NO4V?
The 1746-NO4I provides four analog current outputs with a normal 0-20 mA range. The 1746-NO4V provides four analog voltage outputs with a -10 to +10 VDC range. They have different output electronics and wiring requirements and are not direct signal-type substitutes.
What is the resolution of 1746-NO4I?
The current output converter has 14-bit resolution, corresponding to 2.56348 µA per LSB. The manufacturer also specifies a 2.5 ms step response to 95% and a 512 µs update time for all channels in parallel.
Does 1746-NO4I require an external 24VDC power supply?
The module can use compatible 24 VDC backplane power or a user-supplied external 24 VDC source selected by switch SW1. External power is required for certain configurations, including use with a fixed SLC 500 controller as described in the manufacturer manual. The external supply must provide 21.6-26.4 VDC with adequate current capacity.
What is the maximum output load resistance?
Rockwell Automation specifies an output load resistance range of 0-500 ohms and maximum load reactance of 100 µH. Field devices and loop wiring must remain within these limits.
Are the four analog output channels individually isolated?
No. The four output channels are not individually isolated. The module provides 500 VDC isolation between field wiring and the SLC backplane, which is different from channel-to-channel isolation.
Can 1746-NO4I be installed in an SLC 500 chassis?
Yes. The 1746-NO4I is designed for compatible Bulletin 1746 SLC 500 chassis installations. Before installation, confirm the available I/O slot, processor compatibility, power supply capacity, external power switch position and analog output addressing.
Has Allen-Bradley 1746-NO4I been discontinued?
Yes. Rockwell Automation lists the 1746-NO4I as discontinued effective April 29, 2021. Its replacement classification is Engineering Replacement, meaning a migration solution may require engineering changes rather than a direct module swap. Compatibility should be assessed against the existing PLC hardware and application.
What should be checked before ordering 1746-NO4I?
Verify the exact catalog number 1746-NO4I, four-channel current output configuration, 0-20 mA output range, 14-bit resolution, 0-500 ohm load limits, 1746 chassis compatibility, 5 VDC and 24 VDC backplane power requirements, SW1 power source selection, external 24 VDC supply requirements, existing terminal block, field wiring, program scaling and the manufacturer's discontinued product status. For an existing machine, also confirm the SLC 500 program backup and module slot configuration before replacement.