Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 Relay Output Module | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 is an 8-point relay output module designed for the SLC 500 programmable controller platform. It provides isolated relay contacts for controlling AC/DC loads in discrete automation applications, and is a core component in legacy and active SLC 500 control panel builds worldwide.
Selection Background
Buyers searching for a 1746-OX8 replacement or equivalent relay output module typically face one of three scenarios: an end-of-life procurement challenge, a spare-parts shortage, or a system upgrade requiring a substitute that maintains electrical and logical compatibility. Understanding which alternatives qualify as true drop-in replacements versus functional equivalents is critical to avoiding costly downtime. This guide is designed to help engineers and procurement teams make that determination quickly and confidently.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Replacement Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Module Type | Relay Output | ⚠ Must match output type |
| Number of Outputs | 8 Points | ⚠ Critical for slot compatibility |
| Output Voltage Range | 5–265V AC/DC | ⚠ Must cover application voltage |
| Max Load Current | 2A per point (resistive) | ⚠ Verify load current requirements |
| Isolation | Relay contact (isolated per point) | ✓ Preferred for mixed-voltage loads |
| Backplane Current (5V) | 75 mA | ⚠ Check chassis power budget |
| Backplane Current (24V) | 0 mA | ✓ No 24V draw |
| Operating Temperature | 0–60°C | ✓ Standard industrial range |
| Platform Compatibility | SLC 500 (1746 chassis) | ⚠ Must use 1746-series chassis |
| Certifications | UL, CE, CSA | ✓ Required for regulated installations |
| Weight | ~300 g | — |
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
Direct Drop-in Replacements (same form factor, same backplane connector, no programming changes required):
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 (new production) — Identical OEM module; preferred when sourcing from authorized channels.
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 (refurbished/tested) — Factory-tested pull units; suitable when new stock is unavailable. Verify firmware revision compatibility.
Functional Equivalents (same SLC 500 platform, compatible output type, may require minor configuration review):
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OW16 — 16-point relay output; use when additional I/O capacity is needed in the same chassis slot count. Verify chassis power budget.
- Allen-Bradley 1746-OW8 — 8-point relay output with slightly different contact ratings; confirm load current and voltage range match your application before substituting.
Cross-Brand Alternatives (functionally compatible relay output modules for SLC 500 chassis; third-party compatibility — verify with manufacturer before installation):
- Spectrum Controls 1746-OX8 — Third-party SLC 500-compatible relay output module; widely used as a cost-effective substitute in non-safety-critical applications.
- Horner Electric HE-NIM-OX8 — Verify chassis and backplane compatibility before use. Not recommended for safety-rated circuits.
⚠ Note: Cross-brand alternatives may not carry identical certifications. Always validate with your system integrator or OEM before deployment in regulated or safety-critical environments.
Why Choose the Original Model
- Precision-Rated Contacts: Factory-calibrated relay contacts ensure consistent switching performance across the full rated load range.
- OEM Certifications: UL, CE, and CSA listings are tied to the original part number — critical for compliance in regulated industries.
- Guaranteed Backplane Compatibility: Designed and tested specifically for the 1746 chassis backplane; no compatibility risk.
- Rockwell Automation Technical Support: Full access to OEM documentation, firmware updates, and engineering support.
- Warranty Coverage: Eligible for Rockwell Automation warranty and repair programs.
- Long-Term Spare Parts Ecosystem: Supported by a global network of authorized distributors and repair centers.
Typical Applications
- Automotive Manufacturing: Conveyor line control, motor starter switching, and assembly station interlocks.
- Food & Beverage Processing: Pump and valve control in washdown environments requiring isolated relay outputs.
- Water & Wastewater Treatment: Actuator and solenoid valve control in remote pump stations.
- Oil & Gas: Wellhead control panels and compressor station automation with mixed AC/DC load requirements.
- Building Automation: HVAC control, lighting relay panels, and access control integration.
- General Discrete Manufacturing: Machine tool control, press automation, and packaging line sequencing.
System Compatibility
The 1746-OX8 is compatible with the following SLC 500 system components:
- 1746-A4 / A7 / A10 / A13 — SLC 500 modular chassis (4, 7, 10, 13 slots)
- 1747-L20 / L30 / L40 / L553 — SLC 5/02, 5/03, 5/04, 5/05 processors
- 1746-P1 / P2 / P3 / P4 — SLC 500 power supply modules
- 1747-SDN — DeviceNet Scanner for networked I/O configurations
- 1747-KE / KFC15 — DH-485 and DF1 communication interface modules
- RSLogix 500 / Studio 5000 — Programming software (I/O configuration required)
Selection Guide
Answer these three questions to confirm the 1746-OX8 — or its equivalent — is the right choice for your application:
- Is your chassis a 1746-series SLC 500 chassis? If yes, the 1746-OX8 is backplane-compatible. If you are using a ControlLogix or CompactLogix chassis, you will need a different module family.
- Does your application require isolated relay contacts for mixed AC/DC loads up to 265V and 2A per point? If your load exceeds these ratings, consider the 1746-OW16 or a higher-rated alternative.
- Do you require OEM certifications (UL/CE/CSA) for regulatory compliance? If yes, only the original Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8 or a certified equivalent should be used.
Not sure? Contact Konmask — our engineers will confirm compatibility before you order.
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
Konmask sources the 1746-OX8 through verified industrial surplus channels, authorized distributors, and OEM-certified repair facilities. Every unit undergoes a 4-step inspection process before shipment:
- Visual Inspection: Check for physical damage, corrosion, and component integrity.
- Backplane Connector Test: Verify connector pin condition and seating.
- Functional Power-On Test: Module installed in SLC 500 chassis; all 8 relay outputs cycled under load.
- Firmware & Label Verification: Confirm part number, revision, and serial number against documentation.
Available documentation upon request: test reports, certificate of conformance, photos of actual unit, and traceability records.
How to Order
- Submit Your Inquiry: Email support@konmask.com or call +0086 19859288691 with your required quantity, delivery timeline, and any compatibility questions.
- Receive Confirmation & Quote: Our team will confirm stock availability, unit condition, and pricing within 24 hours.
- Order & Ship: Confirm your order and we will arrange packaging and dispatch with full tracking.
Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: What is a direct replacement for the Allen-Bradley 1746-OX8?
A: The closest direct replacement is another 1746-OX8 (new or refurbished). For a functional equivalent within the SLC 500 platform, the 1746-OW8 is the most commonly used substitute, provided load ratings are verified.
Q: Is the 1746-OX8 compatible with all SLC 500 chassis?
A: Yes — the 1746-OX8 is compatible with all 1746-series modular chassis (A4, A7, A10, A13) and all SLC 5/02 through 5/05 processors. It is not compatible with MicroLogix, ControlLogix, or CompactLogix platforms.
Q: Can I use a third-party equivalent or substitute for the 1746-OX8 in a safety-critical application?
A: We do not recommend cross-brand substitutes for safety-rated or regulated circuits unless the alternative carries equivalent certifications and has been validated by your system integrator. For non-safety applications, third-party equivalents such as Spectrum Controls 1746-OX8 are widely used.
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