Allen-Bradley 1746-IM8 240V AC Input Module | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Allen-Bradley 1746-IM8 is an 8-point, 240V AC discrete input module designed for the SLC 500 programmable controller platform. It provides reliable interface between high-voltage AC field devices and the SLC 500 processor, making it a cornerstone component in legacy industrial automation systems worldwide. This page serves as a comprehensive selection and sourcing reference for engineers, maintenance teams, and procurement specialists.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Catalog Number | 1746-IM8 |
| Series | Allen-Bradley SLC 500 |
| Module Type | Discrete Input (AC) |
| Number of Input Points | 8 Points |
| Input Voltage | 100–240V AC (Nominal 120/240V AC) |
| Input Current (per point) | 10 mA @ 120V AC; 5 mA @ 240V AC |
| ON-State Voltage Range | 74–265V AC |
| OFF-State Voltage Max | 20V AC |
| Input Impedance | 12 kΩ @ 60 Hz |
| Isolation | 1500V AC (field side to backplane) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
| Backplane Current Draw | 75 mA @ 5V DC |
| Module Keying | Electronic (software-configurable) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | Approx. 118 × 37 × 87 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
| Certifications | UL, CSA, CE, C-Tick |
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
When the 1746-IM8 is discontinued, hard to source, or cost-prohibitive, the following models are commonly evaluated as replacements. Always verify electrical compatibility and firmware revision before substitution.
| Model | Brand | Points | Voltage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1746-IM8 (Series B/C) | Allen-Bradley | 8 | 240V AC | Direct OEM replacement — preferred |
| 1746-IM16 | Allen-Bradley | 16 | 120/240V AC | Expanded I/O; same platform, different density |
| 1746-IA8 | Allen-Bradley | 8 | 120V AC | Lower voltage variant; verify field wiring |
| 1746-IA16 | Allen-Bradley | 16 | 120V AC | Higher density 120V AC alternative |
| IC693MDL645 | GE Fanuc (90-30) | 16 | 120V AC | Cross-platform; requires I/O mapping reconfiguration |
| F3XD08A | Yokogawa (STARDOM) | 8 | 100–240V AC | Third-party equivalent; confirm backplane compatibility |
⚠ Note: Third-party replacements require thorough validation. Konmask recommends using genuine Allen-Bradley modules for safety-critical applications.
Why Choose the Original Model
- Guaranteed SLC 500 Backplane Compatibility — Plug-and-play with all SLC 5/01, 5/02, 5/03, 5/04, and 5/05 processors.
- Rockwell Software RSLogix 500 Native Support — No additional driver configuration required.
- Proven Field Reliability — Millions of installed units across global manufacturing facilities.
- Electronic Keying — Prevents incorrect module substitution and protects system integrity.
- Full Certification Compliance — UL, CSA, CE markings for international deployment.
- Consistent Spare Parts Ecosystem — Broad availability of accessories, chassis, and power supplies.
Typical Applications
- Motor starter and contactor status feedback (240V AC coil circuits)
- Limit switch and proximity sensor inputs in high-voltage environments
- Push-button and selector switch interfaces on industrial control panels
- Conveyor line control and material handling systems
- HVAC and building automation control panels
- Water/wastewater treatment plant I/O systems
- Food & beverage processing lines with 240V AC field devices
- Oil & gas upstream/downstream control systems
System Compatibility
The 1746-IM8 is compatible with the following SLC 500 system components:
- Processors: SLC 5/01 (1747-L511/L514), SLC 5/02 (1747-L524), SLC 5/03 (1747-L531/L532/L533), SLC 5/04 (1747-L541/L542/L543/L551), SLC 5/05 (1747-L551/L552/L553)
- Chassis: 1746-A4, 1746-A7, 1746-A10, 1746-A13 (4, 7, 10, 13-slot)
- Power Supplies: 1746-P1, 1746-P2, 1746-P3, 1746-P4, 1746-P7
- Programming Software: RSLogix 500 (v1.0 and above), RSLogix Micro
- Communication: Compatible with DH+, DH-485, Ethernet/IP via processor
Selection Guide
Use the following criteria to confirm the 1746-IM8 is the correct module for your application:
- Field Voltage: Confirm field devices operate at 100–240V AC. For 24V DC inputs, select 1746-IB8 or 1746-IV8 instead.
- Point Count: 8 discrete inputs required. For 16-point density, consider 1746-IM16.
- Chassis Slot Availability: Verify available slots in your existing SLC 500 chassis.
- Backplane Power Budget: Module draws 75 mA @ 5V DC — confirm power supply headroom.
- Series Revision: Series B and C are functionally equivalent; Series A may have firmware limitations.
- Environmental Rating: Standard industrial rating (IP20 equivalent); for harsh environments, consider enclosure protection.
- Regulatory Requirements: CE marking available for EU deployments; confirm local certification requirements.
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
- ✅ Genuine OEM Parts — All 1746-IM8 units sourced from authorized distribution channels or verified surplus inventory.
- ✅ Pre-shipment Functional Testing — Each module tested for backplane communication and I/O point integrity before dispatch.
- ✅ Traceability Documentation — Certificate of conformance and test reports available upon request.
- ✅ Anti-Counterfeit Verification — Physical inspection against Rockwell Automation authenticity markers.
- ✅ Warranty — 12-month warranty against manufacturing defects.
- ✅ Packaging — ESD-safe packaging with original or equivalent protective materials.
How to Order
- Step 1: Confirm catalog number: 1746-IM8 (specify Series B or C if required).
- Step 2: Indicate quantity and required delivery timeline.
- Step 3: Submit inquiry via the product page or contact us directly.
- Step 4: Receive quotation within 1 business day.
- Step 5: Confirm order and receive shipping tracking within 24–48 hours of payment.
📧 Email: support@konmask.com
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +0086 19859288691
🌐 Website: https://Konmask.com
Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: Can I use the 1746-IM8 in a MicroLogix 1000 or 1100 system?
A: No. The 1746-IM8 is designed exclusively for the SLC 500 backplane. MicroLogix systems use a different I/O architecture and are not compatible.
Q: Is the 1746-IM8 still in production?
A: Rockwell Automation has announced end-of-life for portions of the SLC 500 line. Availability depends on surplus and authorized distributor stock. Contact Konmask for current availability.
Q: Can I mix Series A, B, and C modules in the same chassis?
A: Generally yes, but Series A modules may have limitations with newer processors. Series B and C are recommended for all current applications.
Q: What is the difference between 1746-IM8 and 1746-IA8?
A: The 1746-IM8 supports 100–240V AC input range, while the 1746-IA8 is rated for 120V AC only. The IM8 is the preferred choice for 240V AC field devices.
Q: Do you provide a test report or certificate of conformance?
A: Yes. Documentation is available upon request for all orders. Please specify your requirements at the time of inquiry.
Q: What is the lead time for the 1746-IM8?
A: In-stock units ship within 1–3 business days. For bulk orders or specific series requirements, lead time is quoted individually.
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