Industrial Network Communication Solution — Allen-Bradley 1785-KE | PLC-5 Series
Where This Product Is Used
The Allen-Bradley 1785-KE Communication Interface Module is deployed across a wide range of demanding industrial environments where reliable PLC-to-host communication is mission-critical:
- Automotive Assembly Lines — Connects PLC-5 controllers to supervisory computers for real-time production monitoring and line control.
- Oil & Gas Processing Plants — Enables serial communication between legacy PLC-5 systems and SCADA platforms in hazardous-area control rooms.
- Water & Wastewater Treatment Facilities — Integrates PLC-5 controllers with DCS or HMI systems for remote pump and valve management.
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing — Supports validated communication links in GMP-regulated batch processing systems.
- Power Generation & Utilities — Provides stable host communication in substation automation and load-management applications.
- Food & Beverage Processing — Bridges PLC-5 logic controllers with MES systems for OEE tracking and recipe management.
- Pulp & Paper Mills — Maintains continuous process data exchange between PLC-5 racks and centralized control systems.
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 1785-KE
- Series: Allen-Bradley PLC-5
- Module Type: Communication Interface Module (KE — Serial/DH+ Host Interface)
- Communication Ports: RS-232C serial port + Data Highway Plus (DH+) network port
- Baud Rate (Serial): Up to 19,200 bps
- DH+ Data Rate: 57.6 kbps / 115.2 kbps (network dependent)
- Backplane Interface: PLC-5 I/O chassis backplane compatible
- Power Consumption: Supplied via PLC-5 backplane
- 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
- Weight: Approx. 900 g
- Form Factor: Single-slot PLC-5 chassis module
- Firmware: Field-upgradeable (version dependent on application)
Why Engineers Specify This Model
The 1785-KE is the preferred communication bridge for PLC-5 installations requiring simultaneous DH+ network participation and RS-232C host connectivity. Engineers select this module for three core reasons:
- Dual-Port Architecture — Allows the PLC-5 processor to communicate with both a host computer (via RS-232C) and the DH+ network concurrently, eliminating the need for additional gateway hardware.
- Protocol Transparency — Supports DF1 full-duplex, DF1 half-duplex master/slave, and DH+ protocols natively, making it compatible with a broad ecosystem of SCADA, HMI, and historian software.
- Proven Field Reliability — Thousands of 1785-KE modules remain in active service globally, a testament to the module’s robust design and long MTBF in continuous-duty industrial environments.
- Simplified System Architecture — Reduces panel wiring complexity and cabinet footprint by consolidating communication functions into a single backplane slot.
- Legacy System Longevity — Enables cost-effective life extension of existing PLC-5 infrastructure without requiring a full migration to newer controller platforms.
Complete System Bill of Materials
For a fully operational PLC-5 communication system using the 1785-KE, engineers typically specify the following complementary components:
- 1785-KE — Communication Interface Module (this item)
- 1785-Lxx — PLC-5 Processor (e.g., 1785-L40, 1785-L80) — host controller
- 1771-A1B / 1771-A2B / 1771-A3B1 — PLC-5 I/O Chassis (4, 8, or 12 slot)
- 1771-P4S / 1771-P7 — PLC-5 Power Supply
- 1784-KTX / 1784-PKTX — DH+ Communication Card (for programming workstation)
- 1770-CD — DH+ Trunkline Cable (Belden 9463 equivalent)
- 1770-XT — DH+ Network Terminator
- RS-232C Null Modem Cable — For host computer serial connection
- RSLinx Classic / RSLogix 5 — Rockwell Automation software for configuration and programming
Contact Konmask for bundle pricing on multi-component orders.
Compliance & Industry Standards
- UL Listed — UL 508 (Industrial Control Equipment)
- CE Marked — Compliant with EU Low Voltage Directive and EMC Directive
- RoHS — Compliant (verify specific revision with Konmask at time of order)
- ATEX / IECEx — Not intrinsically safe; install in non-hazardous areas or use appropriate enclosures for Zone 2 applications
- IEC 61131-2 — Programmable Controller Hardware Requirements
- NEMA 4 / IP65 — Module requires appropriate enclosure; not rated for direct exposure
- ISA-S5.1 — Compatible with instrumentation and control system documentation standards
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
Konmask sources the 1785-KE through verified industrial automation distributors and authorized surplus channels. Every unit offered undergoes the following quality process before shipment:
- Visual Inspection — Board-level inspection for physical damage, corrosion, or component anomalies
- Label & Firmware Verification — Part number, series, and firmware revision confirmed against Rockwell Automation documentation
- Functional Power-On Test — Module powered and communication ports verified where test fixtures are available
- ESD-Safe Packaging — Shipped in anti-static bags with foam cushioning inside double-wall cartons
- Traceability Documentation — Sourcing records maintained for B2B audit compliance
All units are sold with a 30-day return policy for DOA (Dead on Arrival) claims. Extended warranty options available — contact us for details.
How to Source This Part
Konmask maintains stock of the Allen-Bradley 1785-KE for immediate dispatch. To place an order or request a formal quotation:
- Email: support@konmask.com — include your required quantity, delivery address, and any urgency requirements
- Phone / WhatsApp: +0086 19859288691 — available for urgent B2B inquiries
- Online: Add to cart directly on this page for standard orders
- Lead Time: In-stock units ship within 1–3 business days; out-of-stock units subject to sourcing lead time (typically 5–15 business days)
- Minimum Order: 1 unit; volume pricing available for orders of 5+ units
- Export: We ship globally — DDP, DAP, and EXW Incoterms available
Application-Specific FAQ
Q: Can the 1785-KE be used with a PLC-5/250 processor?
A: Yes. The 1785-KE is compatible with all PLC-5 family processors that support the standard I/O chassis backplane, including the PLC-5/11, 5/20, 5/30, 5/40, 5/60, 5/80, and 5/250.
Q: What software is required to configure the 1785-KE?
A: Configuration is performed via RSLogix 5 (programming software) and RSLinx Classic (communication driver). Both are Rockwell Automation products available through authorized channels.
Q: Is the 1785-KE compatible with EtherNet/IP or ControlNet?
A: No. The 1785-KE provides RS-232C serial and DH+ connectivity only. For EtherNet/IP integration, consider the 1785-ENET or a DF1-to-Ethernet gateway device.
Q: Can this module replace a 1785-KA5 or 1785-KE/B?
A: The 1785-KE and 1785-KA5 serve different communication roles (KE = serial/DH+; KA5 = DH+ only). Verify your existing wiring and software configuration before substituting. Contact Konmask engineering support for a compatibility review.
Q: Do you provide a certificate of conformance (CoC)?
A: Yes. A CoC can be provided upon request for B2B and government procurement orders. Please specify this requirement at the time of inquiry.
Q: What is the typical lead time for large quantity orders (50+ units)?
A: Lead times for bulk orders vary by current stock levels. Contact us directly at support@konmask.com for a dedicated sourcing timeline and volume pricing schedule.
© 2026 Konmask.com. All rights reserved.
Original Source: https://Konmask.com
Contact: support@konmask.com | +0086 19859288691
