Allen-Bradley 1756-AMXN ControlLogix AutoMax/RIO Communication Module

The Allen-Bradley 1756-AMXN is a specialized communication module engineered for the ControlLogix platform to facilitate seamless integration between modern controllers and legacy industrial networks. This module acts as a bridge, enabling ControlLogix systems to communicate with Reliance Electric AutoMax Distributed Power Systems (DCS) and traditional Allen-Bradley Remote I/O (RIO) networks. It provides a strategic migration path for brownfield sites, allowing operators to modernize their control architecture while retaining functional legacy drive racks and remote I/O infrastructure.

Features

• High-Performance Processing: Equipped with a 100 MHz IDT MIPS processor for efficient protocol translation and data handling.
• Memory Architecture: Features 1 MB of onboard logic RAM and 512 KB of shared backplane RAM to manage complex communication tasks.
• Versatile Operating Modes: Supports DCS Master, DCS Slave, and RIO Master configurations for flexible network deployment.
• Legacy Network Compatibility: Bridges the gap between ControlLogix backplanes and AutoMax DCS or RIO environments.
• High-Capacity Communication: Capable of managing up to 55 DCS slave nodes in Master mode or handling extensive I/O polling in RIO mode.

Technical Specifications

Installation Guidelines

• Ensure the ControlLogix chassis is powered down before inserting or removing the 1756-AMXN module to prevent electrical damage.
• Verify that the module is fully seated in the chassis slot and that the retaining screws are tightened to ensure proper grounding.
• Use appropriate shielded cabling for the DB9 interface to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) in high-noise industrial environments.
• Configure the module operating mode through the ControlLogix software environment prior to establishing network communication.
• Maintain adequate ventilation around the chassis to ensure heat dissipation stays within the 5W power dissipation limit.

FAQ

Q: Can the 1756-AMXN be used to replace an AutoMax controller entirely?
A: Yes, it is designed to allow a ControlLogix controller to act as the master for an existing AutoMax DCS network, effectively replacing the legacy controller while maintaining the existing field devices.

Q: What is the primary function of the RIO Master mode?
A: In RIO Master mode, the module acts as a remote scanner, allowing the ControlLogix processor to read and write data to legacy Remote I/O chassis, supporting up to 250 input words and 28 output words.