1788-MCHKR | Allen-Bradley | Linking Devices Media Checker

Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1788-MCHKR serves as an essential handheld diagnostic tool for industrial network maintenance and commissioning. This versatile media checker rapidly identifies cable failures and measures wire length across multiple industrial protocols, including Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, DH+, and RIO. Powered by two standard AA alkaline batteries, it delivers up to 50 hours of continuous operation in the field. We supply this item as a 100% Brand New, factory-sealed unit.

Part Number Breakdown

• 1788: Identifies the 1788 Linking Devices product family.

• MCHK: Denotes the Media Checker function.

• R: Specifies the hardware revision or regional variant.

Technical Specifications

Engineering Advantages

Multi-Protocol Network Diagnostics
The 1788-MCHKR simplifies field maintenance by supporting a wide array of legacy and modern industrial networks. Technicians can use a single device to troubleshoot Ethernet (UTP/FTP), ControlNet (RG6/RG6F), DeviceNet (Thick/Thin), and legacy DH+/RIO cables. This versatility eliminates the need to carry multiple specialized testers, reducing toolbag weight and streamlining troubleshooting workflows.

Precise Cable Fault Detection and Length Measurement
This media checker accurately detects common cable failures such as opens, shorts, and miswires. It provides precise length measurements with a 0.5-meter resolution for Ethernet cables up to 350 meters and ControlNet cables up to 650 meters. Knowing the exact location of a fault or the total length of a cable run helps engineers quickly replace damaged sections and verify compliance with network physical layer specifications.

Rugged Portable Design
Designed for the demanding industrial environment, the 1788-MCHKR operates reliably in temperatures ranging from 0°C to 45°C. Its handheld form factor and intuitive interface—featuring Enter, Up, Down, and Setup buttons alongside a clear 16-character LCD—allow technicians to perform rapid wire mapping and continuity tests directly on the factory floor without needing a laptop or external power source.

FAQs

Q: Which types of industrial cables can the 1788-MCHKR test?
A: This media checker supports a broad range of cables. It tests Ethernet (UTP/FTP), ControlNet (RG6, RG6F, DS3/4), DeviceNet (Thick, Thin, KwikLink), and legacy DH+/RIO cables (1770-CD, 9022, 9463).

Q: How accurate is the cable length measurement?
A: For Ethernet cables, the device offers a high resolution of 0.5 meters. It can measure Ethernet cable lengths from 1 to 350 meters and ControlNet cable lengths from 1 to 650 meters, helping you pinpoint faults with high precision.

Q: What kind of power source does the 1788-MCHKR use?
A: The unit is powered by two standard AA 1.5V alkaline batteries. These provide excellent portability and typically last for about 50 hours of typical operation, ensuring the tool is ready for full-day field use.

Q: What connectors are available on the device?
A: The media checker is equipped with versatile input connectors to match various industrial cables, including an RJ45 jack for Ethernet, a DB-9 port for DeviceNet/DH+/RIO, and a BNC connector for ControlNet coaxial cables.