Allen-Bradley 1756-IC16 Discrete Input Module with CST Timestamping Support

Allen-Bradley 1756-IC16 Discrete Input Module with CST Timestamping Support

The 1756-IC16 is a ControlLogix digital input module from Allen-Bradley, engineered to accept 16 current-sinking DC input signals in the 30–60V DC range. As a member of the ControlLogix I/O family, the 1756-IC16 occupies a single slot in any ControlLogix chassis and communicates with the controller over the backplane, providing high-density discrete input acquisition for demanding industrial applications. The module is organized into two groups of eight inputs, with 250V continuous isolation between groups, a design that enhances electrical safety and noise immunity in mixed-signal environments .

The 1756-IC16 is specifically a 48V DC sink input module, distinguishing it from the more common 24V DC input modules in the ControlLogix lineup. This higher voltage range makes the 1756-IC16 particularly suitable for applications where field devices operate at 48V DC nominal, such as certain legacy control circuits, telecommunications equipment interfaces, and specific material handling systems. The module uses a 20-pin removable terminal block (RTB), with the 1756-TBNH and 1756-TBSH housing options available for field wiring termination . The 1756-IC16 remains an active lifecycle product in Rockwell Automation’s catalog, with standard warranty coverage of one year and availability through authorized distribution channels .

Allen-Bradley 1756-IC16 Discrete Input Module with CST Timestamping Support

 

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name Parameter Value
Product Model 1756-IC16
Manufacturer Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation)
Product Type ControlLogix Digital DC Input Module
Series ControlLogix 1756
Input Channels 16 (2 groups of 8)
Input Voltage Category 48V DC sink
Operating Voltage Range 30–60V DC (30–55V DC @ 60°C)
Isolation 250V continuous between groups of 8 inputs
Terminal Block 20-pin; 1756-TBNH or 1756-TBSH
Communication Format Input Data / CST Timestamped Input Data
Filter Times (DC) OFF→ON: 0, 1, 2 ms; ON→OFF: 0, 1, 2, 9, 18 ms
Diagnostic Features Open wire, field power loss detection
Country of Origin Malaysia
Lifecycle Status Active
Standard Warranty 1 year

 

Main Features and Advantages

The 1756-IC16 addresses a specific niche within the ControlLogix ecosystem: applications requiring discrete input acquisition at 48V DC rather than the standard 24V DC. This voltage capability allows the 1756-IC16 to interface directly with field devices and control circuits that operate at 48V DC, eliminating the need for interposing relays or voltage level conversion. For system integrators working with legacy equipment or industry-specific standards that mandate 48V DC signaling, the 1756-IC16 provides a native, backplane-integrated solution that preserves signal integrity and reduces panel complexity.

The group-isolated architecture of the 1756-IC16 is a meaningful safety and reliability feature. With 250V continuous isolation between the two 8-point groups, the module prevents fault propagation from one group to the other, which is particularly valuable in applications where the two groups interface with different field circuits or where one group may be exposed to higher transient activity. This isolation design also contributes to noise immunity, reducing the likelihood of spurious input state changes in electrically noisy industrial environments .

For applications requiring precise event sequencing, the 1756-IC16 supports Change-of-State (COS) timestamping when configured with the CST Timestamped communication format. This capability allows the module to record the coordinated system time of input transitions, enabling accurate reconstruction of event sequences in diagnostic and root-cause analysis workflows. The module also provides configurable digital filter times per group of eight points, allowing users to tune input response to match the electrical characteristics of connected field devices—short filter times for fast-responding sensors, longer times for mechanical contacts that may exhibit bounce .

 

Application Field

The is deployed in industrial control applications where 48V DC discrete signals are the native field interface standard. In material handling and conveyor systems, the module interfaces with photo-eyes, limit switches, and proximity sensors that operate at 48V DC, providing the ControlLogix controller with position and presence feedback for sortation and routing logic. The 16-channel density of the allows a single module to handle multiple conveyor zones, reducing slot count and backplane overhead compared to lower-density alternatives.

In electrical power and substation automation, the serves as an interface for status monitoring of 48V DC control circuits, including breaker position indications, relay status contacts, and auxiliary contact feedback. The group isolation feature is particularly relevant here, as the two input groups may interface with circuits at different potentials or in different equipment bays. Telecommunications and data center infrastructure also employ the for monitoring 48V DC power distribution systems, where it captures status signals from rectifiers, battery monitoring units, and distribution panels .

Legacy system modernization projects frequently specify the when migrating older PLC platforms that used 48V DC input cards, allowing the existing field wiring and sensor infrastructure to be retained while upgrading the control platform to ControlLogix. The module’s active lifecycle status and availability through Rockwell Automation distribution ensure that the can be specified for new builds and spares inventory with confidence in long-term supply chain support.

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