The Allen-Bradley 1771-OW16, also cataloged as the 1771-OW16 Contact Output Module, operates as a dedicated hardware component for electromechanical relay signal execution within PLC-5 I/O chassis platforms.
Hardware Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Model
1771-OW16
Brand
Allen-Bradley
Origin
USA / Global Manufacturing standard
Weight
2.44 lbs (1.11 kg)
Dimensions
Single-slot 1771 I/O chassis module form factor
Operating Temp
0 to 60 deg C (32 to 140 deg F)
Power Consumption
Backplane current: 1300 mA (1.3 A at 5 VDC)
Number of Outputs
16 discrete relay contact outputs
Contact Configuration
8 N.O. and 8 selectable N.O./N.C. outputs
AC Voltage Range
24 to 250 VAC
DC Voltage Range
24 to 150 VDC
Maximum Load
2 A per output module point (500 VA AC / 80 W DC max)
Field Wiring Arm
1771-WN
Keying Position
Between pins 2 and 4; Between pins 32 and 34
PLC-5 I/O Density Scaling & Backplane Bus Integration
The 1771-OW16 provides 16-channel electromechanical relay control across PLC-5 rack architectures, accommodating high I/O density scaling while maintaining galvano-isolated group switching across two 8-channel banks. Powered directly via the 1771 backplane bus at 1300 mA, internal optocoupler circuitry isolates logic processing from field-side switching transients. This architecture prevents inductive load spikes from causing backplane bus communication velocity degradation across adjacent chassis slots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the 1771-OW16 require external surge suppression for inductive field loads?
A: Yes. The module does not include internal surge limiting circuitry. An external RC network filter or surge suppressor must be connected across the contacts to mitigate arcing and electromagnetic noise (EMI).
Q: Can the 1771-OW16 module be inserted or removed without disconnecting field wiring?
A: Yes. The module utilizes the 1771-WN field wiring arm, which acts as a quick-disconnect terminal strip to allow module replacement while field wiring remains intact.
Field Installation Guidelines
Disconnect main power to the 1771 I/O chassis before installing or removing the module.
Insert plastic keying bands into the chassis backplane connector between pins 2 to 4 and 32 to 34.
Slide the 1771-OW16 into the card guides of a compatible 1771-A1B through A4B or later I/O chassis slot until securely seated.
Attach the 1771-WN field wiring arm and connect output circuits, installing external snubber networks across inductive loads.
Verify chassis backplane power supply capacity accommodates the 1300 mA backplane current load of the module before system startup.
