The Allen-Bradley 1794-AENT is a Flex I/O module that functions as a communication adapter. This communication adapter enables a Flex I/O rack to connect to Ethernet network and exchange data with Ethernet enabled controllers. This adapter allows installation of up to Eight (8) Flex I/O modules, specifically supporting Discrete Input and output and Analog input and output modules.

Flex I/O product family are compact and cost-effective solution for implementing Distributed I/O architecture. The 1794-AENT allows this via the single RJ45 port which supports Ethernet I/P protocol. It supports 10/100 Mbps communication rate.

The 1794-AENT is capable of linear topology. The network address is configured using the thumbwheel switches provided with the module or using a DHCP server. By default, the adapter switches are set at 999.

When establishing connections to the module such as Power connections, recommended wire size range is 0.33...3.31 sq. mm (22...12 AWG) stranded copper wire. The recommended wire insulation rating is 75 °C (167 °F) or greater, and maximum insulation thickness of 1.2 mm (3/64 in.). Recommended terminal screw torque is 0.8 Nm (7 lb-in.). The module has physical dimensions of 87 x 94 x 92 mm or 3.4 x 3.7 x 3.6 in and weighs 227 g (8.01 oz.

The 1794-AENT Flex I/O communication adapter may act as remote I/O to controllers such as PLC5, SLC500, and Logix controller platforms such as CompactLogix and ControlLogix.

It supports up to Eight I/O modules. It has a current load of 450 mA at a 24 VDC power supply and the nominal power supply input voltage is 24 Volts DC. The operating voltage range of the 1794-AENT is 19.2 to 31.2 VDC, including an AC ripple of 5%. The module’s maximum Flexbus output current is 640 mA and its maximum power consumptions are 550 mA and 440 mA at 24 Volts DC. The 1794-AENT module also has a maximum power dissipation of 7.3 W at 19.2 Volts DC and a thermal dissipation of 24.9 BTU/hour at 19.2 Volts DC. This module has a red/green module status indicator, a red/green network status indicator, and a green link status indicator. It has an open-type enclosure that can be mounted using a DIN rail mount and it uses RJ-45 category 5 cables. The entire 1794-AENT module measures 3.4 x 3.7 x 2.7 inches.

It is highly recommended that you use a zinc-plated yellow-chromate steel DIN rail mount to ground this module to the chassis ground. Using DIN rail mounts made up of other materials that are at risk of corrosion or oxidation can result in improper and intermittent grounding. This module can also be mounted on a wall. The 1794-AENT adapter module connects Ethernet/IP-enabled controllers, like CompactLogix and ControlLogix controllers, to FLEX I/O. Among the terminal base units compatible with it are the 1794-TB3G and the 1794-TB3GS units. Make sure to use a power supply that is compliant with the Protected Extra Low Voltage (PELV) or Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) to comply with the CE Low Voltage Directive (LVD). When on an Ethernet network, the 1794-AENT module is recommended when your application requires internet/intranet connection, a built-in switch or high availability requirement, plant management (material handling), time-critical applications with no established schedule, configuration, data collection, and control on a high-speed, single network, and data sent regularly.