Product Details
Product Description
The 1746-A4 is a compact, 4-slot modular rack designed to serve as the physical and electrical backbone for the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 PLC platform. This chassis provides the necessary housing for a single power supply, one CPU (if used in the local rack), and a combination of I/O or specialty modules. Engineered for durability, the 1746-A4 (Part Number: 1746-A4) facilitates high-speed data communication across its integrated backplane, supporting both 5.1V DC and 24V DC power distribution to all installed components.
The frame is designed for secure panel mounting and features a dedicated grounding point to ensure system stability and electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection. For expanded control requirements, the 1746-A4 supports multi-chassis configurations via interconnecting cables, allowing up to three chassis to be linked to a single processor for a maximum of 30 slots. This makes it an ideal choice for localized control tasks or as a remote I/O drop in a larger distributed system.
Technical Specifications
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Manufacturer: Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
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Model Number: 1746-A4
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Chassis Capacity: 4 Modular Slots
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Backplane Voltages: 5.1V DC and 24V DC
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Mounting Configuration: Panel Mount (Internal Cabinet)
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Expansion Limit: Up to 3 chassis total per system
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Interconnect Capability: Supports 1746-C7, 1746-C9, or 1746-C11 interconnect cables
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Grounding: Direct panel ground connection
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Chassis Weight: 0.60 kg (1.31 lbs)
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Dimensions: Approximately 17.1 x 19.5 x 14.5 cm
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System Compatibility: SLC 500 Series processors and 1746 I/O modules
Selection and Comparison
While the 1746-A4 is the smallest in the SLC 500 chassis family, it shares the same electrical specifications as the larger 1746-A7 (7-slot), 1746-A10 (10-slot), and 1746-A13 (13-slot) units. This 4-slot variant is specifically optimized for small-scale logic applications or space-constrained enclosures where high-density I/O is not immediately required but modularity remains a priority.
Engineering FAQ
Can I install the power supply in any slot of the 1746-A4?No, the power supply for the SLC 500 system must be mounted on the dedicated left-side power supply footprint of the 1746-A4. This footprint does not count toward the 4 available I/O slots.
What is the maximum distance between linked chassis?When using expansion cables to link a 1746-A4 to another rack, the total length of the interconnect cables must not exceed 30.48 cm (12 inches) for standard configurations to maintain signal integrity on the backplane bus.
Additional Information
- 100% Genuine Parts: All products are original and authentic, ensuring reliable industrial performance.
- 30-Day Refund Guarantee: Return any in-stock item within 30 days in original, unopened packaging for a full refund (excluding shipping and fees).
- 12-Month Warranty: Covers defects in materials or workmanship; excludes misuse, normal wear, or unauthorized modifications.
- Worldwide Shipping: We ship via USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. Delivery times vary by country and may be subject to customs or import fees.
- Support & Contact: Technical and warranty assistance is available anytime. Contact us here: Contact.
- Purchase Guidance: Check product specifications and compatibility carefully before ordering to ensure proper application.
Tech & Buying Guide
Understanding Types of Noise in Electronic Circuits and Control Systems
Signal integrity directly determines measurement accuracy and loop stability across industrial automation environments. Electronic noise introduces unwanted stochastic interference into analog loops, sensor feedback lines, and digital fieldbus networks. Understanding how intrinsic electronic noise and external electromagnetic interference manifest allows control engineers to optimize signal conditioning and shield sensitive instrumentation effectively.
Why 24V DC Power Supplies Standardize Modern Industrial Automation
Industrial control cabinets worldwide rely on 24V DC as the universal power standard for field instrumentation, sensors, and controllers. Walk into any manufacturing plant, and you will find PLCs, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and smart actuators running on extra-low voltage DC. Standardizing on 24V DC enhances operational safety, lowers cabinet footprint, and maintains steady control performance across factory networks.
Essential Motion Control Commands: A Practical Guide for Engineers
Automation engineers often rely on precise position and speed control to drive modern factory machinery. Modern industrial systems, such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS), depend heavily on standardized motion instructions. Mastering these commands ensures operational safety, protects mechanical components, and optimizes cycle times across production lines.