Allen-Bradley 2711-B5A1 PanelView 550 Mono | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Allen-Bradley 2711-B5A1 is a 5.5-inch monochrome touchscreen HMI terminal from Rockwell Automation’s PanelView 550 series. Designed for industrial machine-level operator interface applications, it communicates via DH-485 and is widely deployed in legacy manufacturing and process control systems. This page provides full technical specifications, compatible replacement models, and a structured selection guide to help engineers and procurement teams make informed decisions.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 2711-B5A1 |
| Series | PanelView 550 |
| Display Type | Monochrome LCD |
| Display Size | 5.5 inch |
| Input Type | Touchscreen |
| Communication Protocol | DH-485 |
| Memory | 512 KB application memory |
| Power Supply | 24 VDC |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C (32°F to 131°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 70°C |
| Enclosure Rating | NEMA 4/4X, 12, 13 (front panel) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | Approx. 200 × 260 × 75 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1.2 kg |
| Programming Software | PanelBuilder 1400e / PanelBuilder32 |
| Manufacturer | Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
The following models are commonly evaluated as direct or functional replacements for the 2711-B5A1. Compatibility depends on communication protocol, panel cutout dimensions, and software version.
| Model | Display | Protocol | Input | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2711-B5A2 | 5.5″ Mono | DH-485 | Keypad | Same series, keypad variant — drop-in replacement for keypad-preferred applications |
| 2711-B5A8 | 5.5″ Mono | DH-485 | Touch + Keypad | Combo input; same cutout dimensions |
| 2711-T5A8L1 | 5.5″ Mono | DH-485 | Touch | Enhanced memory variant; direct functional equivalent |
| 2711P-B6C20D | 6″ Color | EtherNet/IP, DH-485 | Touch | PanelView Plus 6 — modern upgrade path; requires application migration |
| 2711P-T7C21D8S | 7″ Color | EtherNet/IP | Touch | PanelView Plus 7 Standard — recommended long-term replacement |
| Weintek MT6050i | 5″ Color | Multi-protocol | Touch | Third-party alternative; supports AB PLC drivers |
| Siemens KTP600 Basic | 5.7″ Color | PROFIBUS / MPI | Touch + Keys | Cross-brand alternative; requires protocol adapter for AB systems |
⚠ Always verify panel cutout dimensions, communication wiring, and software compatibility before substituting any model in a live system.
Why Choose the Original Model
- Proven field reliability — The 2711-B5A1 has decades of deployment history in automotive, food & beverage, and discrete manufacturing environments.
- Exact software compatibility — Applications developed in PanelBuilder 1400e or PanelBuilder32 run natively without migration effort.
- DH-485 native support — No protocol converter required when integrating with legacy SLC 500 or MicroLogix PLC networks.
- Spare parts availability — Konmask.com maintains sourced stock of tested units for MRO and emergency replacement scenarios.
- Zero re-engineering cost — Retaining the original model eliminates the risk and cost of HMI application re-development.
Typical Applications
- Machine-level operator interface on SLC 500 and MicroLogix PLC systems
- Conveyor and material handling control panels
- Packaging line HMI stations
- HVAC and building automation legacy retrofits
- Water/wastewater treatment operator terminals
- Automotive assembly line control interfaces
- Food & beverage processing equipment panels
System Compatibility
| Compatible PLC / Controller | Protocol | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SLC 500 (5/01, 5/02, 5/03, 5/04, 5/05) | DH-485 | Native; no adapter required |
| MicroLogix 1000 / 1100 / 1200 / 1500 | DH-485 | Native; no adapter required |
| PLC-5 (via 1747-AIC) | DH-485 via adapter | Requires AIC+ link coupler |
| ControlLogix / CompactLogix | Not directly compatible | Use PanelView Plus series for these platforms |
Selection Guide
Use the following decision framework to determine the best HMI solution for your application:
- Existing DH-485 network + SLC/MicroLogix PLC + no budget for migration? → Source original 2711-B5A1 or equivalent 2711-B5A2 / 2711-T5A8L1.
- Need touchscreen input specifically? → 2711-B5A1 (touch) vs. 2711-B5A2 (keypad) — confirm with end-user preference.
- Planning a system upgrade within 2–3 years? → Consider PanelView Plus 6 (2711P-B6C20D) with DH-485 support for a bridged migration path.
- Full modernization to EtherNet/IP? → PanelView Plus 7 Standard (2711P-T7C21D8S) is the recommended long-term platform.
- Budget-constrained with multi-brand PLC environment? → Evaluate Weintek MT6050i or similar third-party HMI with AB driver support.
- Color display required on existing DH-485 wiring? → 2711-B6C1 (PanelView 600 Color) is a same-protocol color upgrade option.
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
- Source: Units sourced from authorized distributors, OEM surplus, and verified industrial resellers.
- Inspection: Each unit undergoes visual inspection, power-on functional test, and communication port verification prior to shipment.
- Condition: New, refurbished, and tested-used grades available — condition clearly stated on each listing.
- Warranty: 90-day replacement warranty on all shipped units. Extended warranty available on request.
- Traceability: Serial number and batch records retained for all shipped units.
- Compliance: RoHS-compliant sourcing practices; CE documentation available for applicable units.
How to Order
- Confirm your required part number: 2711-B5A1 (or specify the equivalent model from the selection guide above).
- Specify required condition: New / Refurbished / Tested-Used.
- Add to cart and proceed to checkout, or contact us directly for bulk orders, urgent requirements, or custom sourcing requests.
- For B2B/wholesale inquiries, email support@konmask.com with your PO or RFQ.
- Lead time: In-stock units ship within 1–3 business days. Special-order units: 5–15 business days depending on sourcing.
Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: Is the 2711-B5A1 still in production?
A: No. The PanelView 550 series has been discontinued by Rockwell Automation. Konmask.com supplies sourced stock for MRO and replacement purposes.
Q: Can I use a PanelView Plus to replace the 2711-B5A1 directly?
A: Not without application migration. PanelView Plus uses FactoryTalk View ME software, which requires re-developing the HMI application from PanelBuilder format. The 2711P-B6C20D supports DH-485, making it the closest upgrade path.
Q: Will my existing DH-485 cable work with a replacement unit?
A: Yes, provided the replacement model also uses DH-485. All models in the PanelView 550 series use the same DH-485 port pinout.
Q: Can I transfer my existing PanelBuilder application to a new unit?
A: Yes. PanelBuilder 1400e and PanelBuilder32 applications can be uploaded to a replacement 2711-B5A1 unit using the same software and a standard serial cable.
Q: What is the difference between 2711-B5A1 and 2711-B5A2?
A: The 2711-B5A1 is a touchscreen-only terminal. The 2711-B5A2 is a keypad-only terminal. Both share the same display size, protocol, and panel cutout dimensions.
Q: Do you offer volume pricing for MRO or OEM customers?
A: Yes. Contact support@konmask.com with your quantity and timeline for a custom quote.
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