Flex I/O 1797 Selection Guide
The FLEX I/O is a robust, cost-effective distributed I/O platform that offers a high level of functionality in a compact design. Its modular design and dependability have made it popular among users for its cost-effectiveness, versatility, and modularity.
The FLEX I/O system supports various networking technologies, including EtherNet/IP, ControlNet, and DeviceNet. The network adapter and terminal bases are compatible with multiple termination styles. Up to eight terminal commands can be attached to one adapter; this allows for a flexible I/O setup.
The Allen-Bradley Flex I/O 1797 system is a sophisticated, module-based input/output solution for direct placement on control equipment. It can be integrated into various communication networks, including Ethernet/IP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, and Remote I/O.
Specifications
The 1797 Flex I/O system is an I/O solution with various modules, each offering specifications such as power dissipation, I/O type, thermal dissipation, and more. Variants with a higher temperature tolerance are available, featuring a temperature range of -20 to 70°C during operation and -40 to 85°C when stored. The system also has built-in galvanic isolation, eliminating the need for IS barriers or isolators, and sophisticated diagnostic tools for effective problem-solving. Built-in N+1 power redundancy allows for reduced wiring, hardware costs, and downtime while improving system reliability through fault tolerance.
Advantages of 1797 I/O Modules
- Reduced Life Cycle Costs: Integrating intrinsically safe I/O reduces the need for standalone barriers, isolators, and specialized enclosures, as well as reducing the length of wiring and cable runs, resulting in estimated savings of around 40%.
- Customizable Solutions: FLEX Ex offers a variety of configurations to meet your application needs. It's easy to find the right option for your specific application and get it up and running quickly.
- Improved Diagnostics: The LED lights on each channel provide real-time status reports and alerts for wire-off and short-circuiting conditions, as well as the ability to remove or insert under power (RIUP).
- Speedy Commissioning: Simplified engineering drawings and documentation make it easier to commission your plant; reduced miswiring means faster commissioning.
Network Choices
Due to its determinism and diagnostic capabilities, the ControlNet network is appropriate for applications in hazardous environments. The ControlNet Ex communication adapter provides a secure and fast control-level network communication that can be linked to up to 8 I/O modules and support a maximum of 128 I/O points.
Using a coax barrier or a fiber hub/repeater to convert coax to fiber can ensure isolation between the ControlNet segments in hazardous and safe regions. For moderate-sized projects, the coax barrier is more cost-effective, while the fiber hub is better suited for larger distances and more extensive applications.
The FLEX Bus Isolator (1797-CEC & -BIC) can be used to connect FLEX and FLEX Ex I/O modules to the same adapter, allowing for connection to FLEX I/O adapters and linking to alternate networks, common in hazardous environments, and using FLEX Ex in low I/O point systems at an affordable price.
Available I/O Options
The 1797 I/O modules provide a range of I/O options to accommodate varied requirements. The 1797-IBN16, a digital module designed for use with NAMUR proximity sensors, push buttons, limit switches, and other primary devices, and the 1797-OB4D, a 4-point source output module suitable for IS solenoid valves and aural alarms, are both examples of digital modules. For capturing signals from pressure and temperature transmitters, flow meters, and other related equipment, the analog module options include the 1797-IE8, -IE8H, and -IE8NF, 8-point 16-bit single-ended non-isolated input modules, as well as the 1797-OE8, an 8-point 13-bit single-ended non-isolated output module with a discrete mode for low-power indicators. The 1797-IRT8 is an 8-point 16-bit single-ended non-isolated 4-wire RTD, thermocouple, and millivolt input module for connecting to thermocouples, RTDs, potentiometers, and strain gauge bridges. The 1797-IJ2, a two-channel high-resolution frequency input module for precise shaft position information, and the 1797-IJ2 are also specialty modules.
1797-ACNR15 Module
The Allen-Bradley 1797-ACNR15 Flex Ex ControlNet media adapter is designed for use with Flex Ex I/O modules in hazardous environments (requires intrinsic safety). It has two ControlNet ports connecting ControlNet coaxial media cables and supports linear ControlNet media. The 1797-ACNR15 is specifically designed to implement ControlNet Ex redundant networks and can accommodate up to eight Flex Ex I/O modules. It supports a standard communication rate of 5Mbps with built-in indicators for communication, Module, and power statuses. This DIN rail-mounted device has an 8.5 W power consumption. It includes a 24V DC power supply and offers a straightforward communication interface between a scanner port on a programmable controller and Flex Ex I/O modules. The 1797-ACNR15 is IP20 rated with a maximum power dissipation of 8.5 W, has fixed LED indicators, and is certified by CE, UL, c-UL, IECEx, and FM.
1797-BCNR Module
A ControlNet Redundant Barrier Module, the 1797-BCNR, was created for the Allen-Bradley Flex Ex I/O family. It offers real-time error detection and problem resolution. The Module has a built-in ControlNet communication port with a 5 Mbps communication speed and operates at 7V with -7.84 dB transmission attenuation. It is configurable for various applications and can be replaced. In addition, the system's built-in galvanic isolation and compliance with dangerous location laws allow it to operate even in hazardous environments. The Module is protected from corrosion thanks to its FLEX Ex coating and weighs 200 grams.
1797-BIC Module
The 1797-BIC is an Allen-Bradley module that functions as a FLEX Ex Bus Isolator. It is designed to be utilized in hazardous areas and offers a secure connection between typical FLEX I/O modules. Power indications, a detachable power connector, and a master backplane connector are the many characteristics of the Module. It must be synchronously power cycled with the associated adapter for proper operation. The 1797-BIC is built to CE requirements for usage in hazardous environments. The Module enables the connection of both intrinsic and non-intrinsic safety field device wires within the same I/O group. It is connected to the Flex Ex system through the 1794-CE3 cable, with a maximum length of 1 meter. The 1797-BIC must be power cycled every time the communication adapter is power cycled to preserve the inherent safety link.
1797-IBN16 Module
The Allen-Bradley 1797-IBN16 is a hazardous location module approved for Class I, II, and III/Division 1, Zone 1 and 22. It contains 16 NAMUR-compatible and inherently safe non-isolated sinking input channels. Each channel includes a customizable input delay time, yellow status, red fault, and green power indicators. This Module must be attached to a terminal base of the same grade and wired together with 4mm2 stranded wire. It has a complete input pulse width of 500 Ohms and a maximum input frequency of 1000 Hz. It can function at temperatures ranging from -20 to 70°C and be stored at temperatures ranging from -40 to 85°C. The 1797-IBN16 is 46 x 94 x 75 mm and weighs 200 grams.
1797-IE8 Module
The Allen-Bradley 1797-IE8 Flex Ex analog input module boasts intrinsic safety ratings of Class I, II, III Division 1 Groups A-G and A-D. It is equipped with 8 non-isolated channels, each offering 16-bit resolution, and is capable of accepting both 0-20 mA and 4-20 mA signals. The Module has a digital format with a precision of 0.1% at 20°C. Its update rate ranges from 200 ms to 1600 µs, and it features internal diagnostics for alarm detection. The Module must be connected to a compatible terminal base like 1797-TB3 or 1797-TB3S using 4mm2 stranded copper wire with 1.2mm insulation. The Module's critical switch assignment is at position 3.
1797-IE8NF Module
The 1797-IE8NF, an analog input module, has eight channels and is equipped with an integrated noise filter, suitable for accepting either 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA signals. It is certified for use in Class I Division 1 & 2 hazardous zones across North America and Europe and can be utilized to connect with field equipment in hazardous environments of Class I, II, and III. The Module has a 16-bit resolution, 0.1% accuracy at 20°C, and dissipates 5.2 W of power. It has fault detection, eight red fault lights, and one green power indicator. A precise current source, meter, industrial termination, and cable may be required for calibration.
1797-IJ2 Module
The 1797-IJ2 from Allen-Bradley is a two-frequency input module that facilitates radio communication between two devices. It features two frequency channels:
- Two gate channels
- A thermal dissipation rate of 14.5 BTU/h.
This module has an IP20 protection rating. The 1797-IJ2 can operate on a relative humidity range of 5 to 95%. Three status indicators (A, B, and C) are present to display individual channel status, individual I/O designations, and power status.
1797-IRT8 Module
The 1797-IRT8 by Allen-Bradley is a thermocouple input module designed for indoor use in a factory environment. It boasts 8 channels for input, with a signal range of 0 to 485 ohms and -40 to 100 MV. The Module requires less than 9.5 Volts DC for power supply voltage and current consumption of less than 1 Amp. It features an IP20 enclosure, which is not water-resistant and must be protected from water exposure. The 1797-IRT8 drive offers both DIN rail and panel mounting options, with dimensions of 3.7 inches, 2.95 inches in width, and 1.8 inches in height.
The 1797-IE8NF input module operates under non-condensing relative humidity conditions ranging from 5 to 95%. This module reaches 99% of its full potential within a mere 8 milliseconds and features 8 red fault lights and a single green indicator that displays module power status. The 1797-IRT8 drive is configurable for various sensors and is certified by C/US, UL, C-Tick, and marine-GL. It has a lead resistance compensation of less than 15 Watts and a total power dissipation rating of 1.6 Watts.
1797-OB4D Module
The 1797-OB4D is a non-isolated output module from the 1797 series of analog modules manufactured by Allen-Bradley. The Module has 4 output channels that reference a single supply and a yellow LED that indicates the output status. Each channel updates every 2 milliseconds from the backplane. The Module has the following features:
- A voltage of 25 Volts DC
- A thermal dissipation of 17.07 BTU per hour
- A power consumption of 7.5 Watts at 9 Volts
- A power dissipation of 5 Watts.
In case of a fault, the 1797-OB4D output module has a fault indication function, and the status indicator will blink red. It can detect short circuits, wire off per channel, and is electronically protected against short circuits. Faults can be reported directly to the controller by the Module. The module dimensions are approximately 46 millimeters x 94 millimeters x 75 millimeters (width x height x length).
1797-OE8 Module
The Allen-Bradley Flex Ex 1797-OE8 is a top-of-the-line analog output module with 8 non-isolated, single-ended channels. The device is designed for safety with a NEMA-certified IP20 enclosure, and it requires 12 AWG stranded cables for power connections. The 1797-OE8 includes eight red fault indications, one green power indicator, and four key switch locations. It requires a voltage of over 11 Volts at 22 MA and has a current range of 0 to 22 MA. The gadget creates 2G vibrations at 10 to 500 Hertz and has a reaction time between the Module and adapter of 200 to 1600 microseconds. The 1797-OE8 is 3.7 x 2.95 x 1.8 inches and includes panel-type mounting and DIN rails.
1797-OE8H Module
The 1797-OE8H output module from Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation's Flex Ex I/O line. It may be attached on a DIN rail; grounding is feasible if the DIN rail is zinc-plated yellow chromate steel. It has 8 single-ended, non-isolated outputs. Although the Module supports RIUP (Removal and Insertion Under Power), it is suggested that the power supply be disconnected before removing the Module.
The Allen-Bradley 1797-OE8H is an output module with:
- A current capacity of 0-22 mA
- A voltage range of 15 V at 22 mA
- A power consumption of 6.1 Watts
- A heat dissipation rate of 5.4 Watts.
This module weighs approximately 200 grams and can operate in temperatures ranging from -4 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
1797-PS1E Module
The Allen-Bradley 1797-PS1E is a Flex-Ex system quad-Ex DC output power supply module. It includes:
- An input voltage range of 85-253 VAC
- An input frequency range of 47-63 Hz
- The four separate output channels (each of 8.5 Watts of power).
The Module is built for usage in hazardous situations, with a flame-proof housing, explosion-proof terminations, and sealed wire entry/exit ports for added security. Each output channel is Intrinsically Safe and separately IS restricted, making it appropriate for usage in hazardous regions with acceptable ambient temperatures ranging from -20 to 70°C in Zone 1 and category 3D in Zone 22 according to Directive 94/9 EC. Power supply lines must be built for usage in high ambient temperatures.