Allen Bradley 20-COMM-E PowerFlex 7-Class EtherNet/IP Adapter

2026-04-20T18:45:07-07:00

Vendor: Allen-Bradley
Type: Drive Communication Adapter
Price: 66.00

Product Overview

The Allen Bradley 20-COMM-E acts as the high-speed communication gateway for PowerFlex 7-Class AC drives. This adapter enables seamless integration of motor control assets into an EtherNet/IP network, allowing for real-time control, configuration, and data collection. By utilizing the internal DPI (Drive Peripheral Interface) protocol, it provides the bridge between field-level drive parameters and enterprise-level Ethernet architectures. We supply this module as 100% Brand New and Original, ensuring peak network stability and zero-hour operational life.

Technical Specifications

The 20-COMM-E optimizes data throughput for complex drive lineups via the following technical parameters:

Feature | Specification
Manufacturer | Allen Bradley
Compatible Drives | PowerFlex 70, 700, 700H, 700S, 753, 755
Network Protocol | EtherNet/IP
Data Rates | 10/100 Mbps (Half or Full Duplex)
Drive Protocol | DPI (125 kbps or 500 kbps)
TCP Connections | Up to 30 Simultaneous Connections
Packet Rate | 400 I/O packets/sec (200 In / 200 Out)
Device Type | Multi-Cast Support
Operating Temp | -10 to 50 °C (14 to 122 °F)
Weight | 0.44 lbs (0.20 kg)

Engineering Advantages

The 20-COMM-E provides critical hardware and software advantages for industrial network engineers:

High-Density Packet Processing: The adapter handles up to 400 I/O packets per second. This capacity ensures that high-speed motion control or rapid interlocking signals reach the drive without the latency spikes associated with low-tier communication cards.

Versatile Topology Support: The module supports both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps data rates in half or full duplex. This auto-negotiation capability allows it to function within legacy network hubs or modern high-speed managed switches without manual configuration.

Multi-Master Control: Supporting up to 30 simultaneous TCP connections, the 20-COMM-E allows multiple controllers or HMI units to access drive data concurrently. This enables a supervisor PC to collect energy analytics while a PLC maintains primary control of the motor.

Internal DPI Integration: The module mounts directly into the drive’s internal communication bay. This internal installation protects the adapter from external electromagnetic interference (EMI) and physical damage, unlike external protocol converters.

FAQs

Can I install the 20-COMM-E while the drive is powered?

No. You must remove all power from the PowerFlex drive before installing or removing the 20-COMM-E adapter. Failure to do so can result in permanent damage to the DPI port on the drive control board or the adapter itself.

Does this adapter support the PowerFlex 4-Class (e.g., PowerFlex 40)?

No. The 20-COMM-E specifically targets 7-Class drives using the DPI protocol. For PowerFlex 4-Class drives, which utilize the DSI protocol, you require the 22-COMM-E adapter.

How do I assign an IP address to a brand new 20-COMM-E?

A new unit defaults to DHCP/BOOTP enabled. You can assign the IP address using the Rockwell BootP/DHCP Utility or via the DriveExplorer/Connected Components Workbench (CCW) software using a 1203-USB converter if the network is not yet active.

What is the significance of the 500 kbps DPI data rate?

The 500 kbps rate maximizes the internal communication speed between the adapter and the drive's main control board. This ensures that the high-speed Ethernet data is not bottlenecked by the internal drive interface, maintaining synchronized control loops.