Allen-Bradley 1746-IC16 Digital Input Module | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Allen-Bradley 1746-IC16 is a 16-point DC digital input module designed for the SLC 500 modular I/O system. It accepts 10–30V DC sinking (NPN) input signals and is widely used in industrial automation, machine control, and process monitoring applications. This page provides full technical specifications, compatible replacement models, selection guidance, and sourcing information to help engineers and procurement teams make confident decisions.
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 1746-IC16
- Manufacturer: Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation)
- Module Type: DC Digital Input
- Number of Inputs: 16 points
- Input Voltage Range: 10–30V DC
- Input Type: Sinking (NPN)
- Input Current: 7 mA @ 24V DC (nominal)
- ON-State Voltage: 10–30V DC
- OFF-State Voltage: 0–5V DC
- Isolation: Optical isolation between field and backplane
- Backplane Current Draw: 100 mA @ 5V DC
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F)
- Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
- Relative Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
- Dimensions: Single-slot SLC 500 module
- Weight: Approx. 400 g
- Certifications: UL, CSA, CE
- Compatible System: SLC 500 modular chassis (1746 series)
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
The following models are functionally equivalent or drop-in replacements for the 1746-IC16. Always verify wiring polarity and voltage range before substitution.
- 1746-IB16 — Allen-Bradley 16-point 24V DC sinking input (most common direct substitute; same form factor)
- 1746-IB16E — Enhanced version with diagnostic capabilities; backward compatible
- 1746-IB32 — 32-point version for higher-density applications
- 1746-IA16 — 16-point 120V AC input module (different voltage class; verify field wiring)
- 1746-IV16 — 16-point 10–30V DC sourcing (PNP) input; opposite polarity — confirm sensor type
- Siemens 6ES7 321-1BH02-0AA0 — Third-party equivalent for S7-300 systems (cross-platform; requires adapter)
- Mitsubishi QX40 — Functional equivalent for Q-series systems (cross-platform)
Note: Cross-brand replacements require system-level compatibility verification. Contact our technical team for guidance.
Why Choose the Original Model
- Guaranteed Compatibility: Native fit for all SLC 500 modular chassis without firmware or configuration changes
- Rockwell Ecosystem Integration: Full support in RSLogix 500 / Studio 5000 programming environments
- Proven Reliability: Millions of units deployed globally in mission-critical industrial environments
- Long Service Life: Optical isolation and robust design rated for harsh industrial conditions
- OEM Warranty & Support: Eligible for Rockwell Automation TechConnect support contracts
- Regulatory Compliance: UL, CSA, and CE certified for global deployment
Typical Applications
- Machine tool control and CNC integration
- Conveyor and material handling systems
- Packaging line automation
- Automotive assembly line control
- Water and wastewater treatment plant I/O
- Building automation and HVAC control panels
- Food and beverage processing equipment
- Oil & gas field instrumentation panels
System Compatibility
- Compatible Chassis: 1746-A4, 1746-A7, 1746-A10, 1746-A13 (all SLC 500 modular chassis)
- Compatible Processors: SLC 5/01, 5/02, 5/03, 5/04, 5/05
- Programming Software: RSLogix 500 (v1.0 and above)
- Communication: Via SLC 500 backplane; supports DH+, DH-485, Ethernet/IP (processor-dependent)
- NOT compatible with: MicroLogix 1000/1100/1400 (different backplane), ControlLogix/CompactLogix (1756/1769 series)
Selection Guide
Use the following criteria to select the correct digital input module for your SLC 500 system:
- Field Voltage: 10–30V DC → 1746-IC16 or 1746-IB16 | 100–120V AC → 1746-IA16 | 200–240V AC → 1746-IA16E
- Sensor Wiring Type: NPN (sinking) sensors → 1746-IC16 / 1746-IB16 | PNP (sourcing) sensors → 1746-IV16
- Point Density: 16 points → 1746-IC16 | 32 points → 1746-IB32 | 8 points → 1746-IB8
- Diagnostics Required: Standard → 1746-IC16 | With diagnostics → 1746-IB16E
- Slot Availability: Single-slot module; verify chassis slot count before ordering
Still unsure? Send us your system configuration and we will recommend the correct module.
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
- Sourcing: Konmask.com sources 1746-IC16 modules from authorized distributors and verified surplus channels
- Inspection: Every unit undergoes visual inspection, label verification, and functional pre-shipment checks
- Authenticity: We do not sell counterfeit or remarked parts; certificates of conformance available on request
- Condition Options: New (factory sealed), Refurbished (tested & warranted), and Surplus (as-removed, tested)
- Lead Time: In-stock units ship within 1–3 business days; contact us for bulk order lead times
- Warranty: 12-month warranty on all units; extended warranty available
How to Order
- Step 1: Confirm your SLC 500 chassis model and available slot count
- Step 2: Verify field wiring voltage (10–30V DC) and sensor type (NPN/sinking)
- Step 3: Select condition: New / Refurbished / Surplus
- Step 4: Add to cart or contact us for a formal quotation
- Step 5: Provide PO number or company details for B2B invoice
📧 Email: support@konmask.com
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +0086 19859288691
🌐 Website: https://Konmask.com
Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: Can I replace 1746-IC16 with 1746-IB16?
A: Yes. The 1746-IB16 is the most common direct replacement. Both are 16-point 24V DC sinking input modules with identical form factor and backplane interface. No chassis or software changes required.
Q: Is the 1746-IC16 compatible with ControlLogix systems?
A: No. The 1746-IC16 is designed exclusively for the SLC 500 (1746) backplane. ControlLogix uses the 1756 series I/O modules.
Q: Can I use PNP (sourcing) sensors with the 1746-IC16?
A: No. The 1746-IC16 is a sinking (NPN) input module. For PNP sensors, use the 1746-IV16 instead.
Q: What is the difference between 1746-IC16 and 1746-IB16?
A: Both are functionally equivalent 16-point 24V DC sinking input modules. The 1746-IB16 is the current catalog number; 1746-IC16 may appear in older documentation. Verify with your Rockwell distributor for the latest catalog status.
Q: Do you provide a certificate of conformance?
A: Yes. Certificates of conformance and test reports are available upon request for all orders.
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