Allen-Bradley 1788-CN2FF ControlNet Fiber Ring Long Distance Repeater | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Allen-Bradley 1788-CN2FF is a ControlNet Fiber Ring Long Distance Repeater designed to extend ControlNet network segments over fiber-optic media. It enables high-speed, noise-immune communication across long distances in demanding industrial environments. This page provides full technical specifications, compatible replacement models, and a structured selection guide to help engineers and procurement teams make the right sourcing decision.
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 1788-CN2FF
- Manufacturer: Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
- Series: 1788 ControlNet Interface
- Network Protocol: ControlNet (IEC 61158)
- Media Type: Fiber Optic (Ring Topology)
- Fiber Type: Multi-mode fiber (62.5/125 µm typical)
- Connector Type: ST connectors (dual port)
- Data Rate: 5 Mbps
- Max Segment Distance: Up to 3 km per fiber segment (ring configuration)
- Power Supply: 24 VDC (external)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F)
- Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
- Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
- Enclosure Rating: Open-style (panel mount)
- Weight: Approx. 150 g
- Certifications: CE, UL, cUL
- Product Family: ControlNet Fiber Media System
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
The following models are commonly evaluated as replacements or equivalents for the 1788-CN2FF. Compatibility depends on your specific network topology, fiber type, and system revision. Always verify with your system integrator before substitution.
- 1788-CN2FF (Original) — Allen-Bradley ControlNet Fiber Ring Repeater
- 1788-CN2CR — ControlNet Coax-to-Fiber Repeater (coax input, fiber output; partial replacement in hybrid topologies)
- 1788-CN2PA — ControlNet Fiber Passive Tap (for star/passive configurations; not a direct ring repeater replacement)
- 1786-RPFRL — ControlNet Fiber Ring Long Distance Repeater (newer catalog number; functionally equivalent in most applications)
- 1786-RPFRXL — Extended-distance fiber ring repeater (single-mode fiber; suitable for distances >3 km)
- Third-party ControlNet fiber repeaters — Must support IEC 61158 ControlNet protocol at 5 Mbps; verify ST connector compatibility and ring topology support
Note: Rockwell Automation periodically supersedes catalog numbers. Confirm the latest active replacement via the Rockwell Product Compatibility & Download Center (PCDC).
Why Choose the Original Model
- Guaranteed Protocol Compliance: Factory-validated for ControlNet IEC 61158 at 5 Mbps — no interoperability risk.
- Seamless Integration: Plug-and-play with existing Allen-Bradley ControlNet infrastructure (PLCs, I/O, drives).
- Rockwell Support Ecosystem: Full access to Rockwell TechConnect support, firmware updates, and PCDC documentation.
- Proven Field Reliability: Widely deployed in automotive, oil & gas, and discrete manufacturing since the 1990s.
- Warranty & Traceability: Genuine parts carry manufacturer warranty and full supply-chain traceability.
Typical Applications
- Extending ControlNet segments across large plant floors or between buildings
- Electrically noisy environments (welding cells, VFD-dense panels) where fiber immunity is critical
- Automotive assembly lines with long inter-zone distances
- Oil & gas facilities requiring intrinsically safe or noise-immune communication
- Water/wastewater treatment plants with distributed I/O over long runs
- Redundant ring topologies requiring fault-tolerant fiber media
System Compatibility
- Compatible PLCs: ControlLogix (1756), CompactLogix (1769), FlexLogix (1794), SLC 500 with ControlNet scanner
- Compatible Software: RSNetWorx for ControlNet, Studio 5000 Logix Designer, RSLinx Classic
- Network Topology: Ring (primary use), Tree (with appropriate taps)
- Coexistence: Compatible with 1786-series ControlNet media components on the same network segment
- Not Compatible With: EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Profibus, or other non-ControlNet protocols
Selection Guide
Use the criteria below to determine whether the 1788-CN2FF is the right choice — or which alternative best fits your application:
- Distance < 3 km, multi-mode fiber, ring topology → 1788-CN2FF (this unit) or 1786-RPFRL
- Distance > 3 km or single-mode fiber required → 1786-RPFRXL (extended-distance variant)
- Hybrid coax + fiber network → 1788-CN2CR (coax-to-fiber bridge repeater)
- Star/passive tap topology → 1788-CN2PA (passive tap; not a repeater)
- Budget-sensitive retrofit with third-party hardware → Verify IEC 61158 compliance, 5 Mbps support, ST connectors, and ring topology before purchase
- New system design → Consider migrating to EtherNet/IP (1783-series) for future-proof architecture; consult Konmask for migration planning
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
- Source: Konmask.com sources 1788-CN2FF units from authorized distributors and verified surplus channels.
- Inspection: All units undergo visual inspection, label verification, and functional pre-shipment checks where applicable.
- Authenticity: Counterfeit risk is mitigated through supplier vetting and cross-referencing Rockwell Automation part markings.
- Condition Options: New (factory-sealed), Refurbished (tested), and Surplus (used, inspected) — specify at time of inquiry.
- Lead Time: Typically 1–5 business days for in-stock units; contact us for urgent requirements.
How to Order
- Confirm your part number: 1788-CN2FF
- Specify required condition: New / Refurbished / Surplus
- Provide quantity and required delivery date
- Submit inquiry via support@konmask.com or call +0086 19859288691
- Receive quote within 1 business day with lead time confirmation
Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: Is the 1786-RPFRL a direct replacement for the 1788-CN2FF?
A: In most ring fiber topologies, yes. The 1786-RPFRL is the current active catalog number that supersedes the 1788-CN2FF. Verify firmware and connector compatibility before substitution.
Q: Can I use single-mode fiber with the 1788-CN2FF?
A: No. The 1788-CN2FF is designed for multi-mode fiber. For single-mode applications, use the 1786-RPFRXL.
Q: Will this repeater work with EtherNet/IP networks?
A: No. The 1788-CN2FF is exclusively a ControlNet device and is not compatible with EtherNet/IP infrastructure.
Q: Can I mix 1788-CN2FF and 1786-RPFRL repeaters on the same ring?
A: Generally yes, as both comply with ControlNet IEC 61158, but mixed-generation hardware should be validated in RSNetWorx before deployment.
Q: Do you provide a warranty on surplus units?
A: Yes. Konmask offers a 90-day functional warranty on all inspected surplus units. Contact us for full warranty terms.
Q: How do I verify authenticity of the unit I receive?
A: Each unit ships with inspection documentation. Rockwell part markings, date codes, and label formats are cross-checked prior to shipment.
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Contact: support@konmask.com | +0086 19859288691
