1715-OF8I Series: A Comprehensive Guide to Allen-Bradley’s Analog Output Modules for Redundant I/O System

If you are looking for a reliable and versatile analog output module for your redundant I/O system, you may want to consider the 1715-OF8I series from Allen-Bradley. This series consists of four analog output modules that provide eight isolated current outputs each. These modules can be used to control modulating devices such as valves, dampers, positioners, and variable frequency drives.

In this article, we will cover the features, specifications, and benefits of the 1715-OF8I series, as well as how to install and configure them. We will also compare them with other analog output modules from Allen-Bradley and other brands.

What are the 1715-OF8I Series Modules?

The 1715-OF8I series modules are part of the 1715 redundant I/O system from Allen-Bradley. This system is designed to provide high availability and fault tolerance for critical applications that require continuous operation and minimal downtime. The system consists of two redundant Ethernet/IP adapters, two redundant power supplies, and up to 24 I/O modules.

The 1715-OF8I series modules are analog output modules that provide eight isolated current outputs each. The outputs can be individually configured for 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA ranges. The modules also support HART communication protocol, which allows you to monitor and control smart field devices remotely.

The 1715-OF8I series modules include the following models:

• 1715-OF8I: The standard model that provides eight isolated current outputs with HART protocol support.
• 1715-TASOF8: The termination assembly for the standard model that provides wiring terminals and status indicators for the outputs.
• 1715-TADOF8: The dual termination assembly for the standard model that provides wiring terminals and status indicators for two modules in one assembly.
• 1715-A3IO: The module base for the standard model that provides power and communication connections for up to three I/O modules.

What are the Features and Benefits of the 1715-OF8I Series Modules?

The 1715-OF8I series modules offer several features and benefits that make them suitable for various industrial applications, such as process control, motion control, machine monitoring, and data acquisition. Some of these features and benefits are:

• High accuracy, resolution, and stability for your analog signals, as well as protection against overvoltage, short circuit, and reverse polarity.
• Diagnostic indicators and status bits that help you troubleshoot and maintain your system.
• Easy installation and configuration, thanks to their compact and modular design. The modules snap onto a DIN rail or panel mount base and connect to the redundant I/O system via a removable terminal block. The modules can be configured using the RSLogix 5000 software or the DeviceNet network.
• Enhanced communication and integration, thanks to their support for DeviceNet messaging and CIP data table access. The modules also support HART protocol, which allows you to communicate with smart field devices using a single pair of wires.

How do the 1715-OF8I Series Modules Compare with Other Analog Output Modules?

The 1715-OF8I series modules are not the only analog output modules available from Allen-Bradley or other brands. There are other options that may suit your specific application requirements better. Here are some of the factors that you may want to consider when comparing different analog output modules:

• Number of outputs: The 1715-OF8I series modules provide eight isolated current outputs each. If you need more or fewer outputs, you may want to look for other modules that offer different numbers of outputs, such as four, six, or sixteen.
• Output type: The 1715-OF8I series modules provide current outputs only. If you need voltage outputs or mixed outputs (both current and voltage), you may want to look for other modules that offer these options.
• Output range: The 1715-OF8I series modules provide two output ranges: 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA. If you need other output ranges, such as 0-10 V or +/-10 V, you may want to look for other modules that offer these options.
• Communication protocol: The 1715-OF8I series modules support HART protocol, which is a common and widely used protocol for smart field devices. If you need other communication protocols, such as Modbus, Profibus, or Ethernet/IP, you may want to look for other modules that support these protocols.
• Redundancy: The 1715-OF8I series modules are part of the 1715 redundant I/O system, which provides high availability and fault tolerance for critical applications. If you don’t need redundancy or if you prefer other redundancy methods, such as hot standby or ring topology, you may want to look for other modules that offer these options.

Some examples of other analog output modules from Allen-Bradley and other brands are:

• 1756-OF8: An analog output module from the ControlLogix system that provides eight voltage or current outputs with HART protocol support.
• 1769-OF8C: An analog output module from the CompactLogix system that provides eight current outputs with HART protocol support.
• 1794-OE8H: An analog output module from the Flex I/O system that provides eight voltage or current outputs with HART protocol support.
• Siemens SM 332: An analog output module from the Simatic S7-300 system that provides four or eight voltage or current outputs with Profibus or Profinet protocol support.
• Schneider BMXAMO0802: An analog output module from the Modicon M340 system that provides eight current outputs with Modbus protocol support.

How to Install and Configure the 1715-OF8I Series Modules?

The installation and configuration of the 1715-OF8I series modules are relatively simple and straightforward. Here are the basic steps that you need to follow:

1. Mount the module base (1715-A3IO) on a DIN rail or panel mount base. Make sure to leave enough space for ventilation and wiring.
2. Connect the power supply (1715-PSC) to the module base using the power cable (1715-N2S or 1715-N2T).
3. Connect the Ethernet/IP adapter (1715-AENTR) to the module base using the communication cable (1715-N2S or 1715-N2T).
4. Snap the I/O module (1715-OF8I) onto the module base. Make sure to align the pins and sockets correctly.
5. Connect the termination assembly (1715-TASOF8 or 1715-TADOF8) to the I/O module using the removable terminal block. Make sure to tighten the screws securely.
6. Wire your field devices to the termination assembly according to the wiring diagram and specifications. Make sure to follow the safety precautions and guidelines.
7. Configure the I/O module using the RSLogix 5000 software or the DeviceNet network. You can set the output range, HART parameters, fault actions, and other options according to your application needs.
8. Test and verify your system operation and performance. You can use the diagnostic indicators and status bits to monitor and troubleshoot your system.

Conclusion

The 1715-OF8I series modules are a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile analog output module for their redundant I/O system. These modules provide eight isolated current outputs with HART protocol support, which can be used to control modulating devices such as valves, dampers, positioners, and variable frequency drives.

The 1715-OF8I series modules are easy to install and configure, thanks to their compact and modular design. They also offer high accuracy, resolution, and stability for your analog signals, as well as protection against overvoltage, short circuit, and reverse polarity.

If you are interested in buying the 1715-OF8I series modules or other redundant I/O products, you can visit our website for more information and pricing. We are a leading supplier of industrial automation products and services, with over 15 years of experience in the field. We offer fast delivery, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. Contact us today and let us help you with your automation needs.